Here’s What to Expect at Your First Contact Lens Exam

If you are thinking about getting contact lenses, you need to know what to expect. If you have been wearing eyeglasses, you should know that you require a different contact prescription. Before switching to lenses, you should determine whether they suit your lifestyle. An eye exam will decide whether you are a good candidate for contact lenses. Here's what to expect at your first contact lens exam.

Comprehensive Eye Exam

A detailed eye exam is necessary before you get contact lenses. The process is lengthier and more complicated than the one for eyeglasses. It will consider your sight-related issues, eye shape, and other factors.

Lenses will be designed to suit your needs. The doctor will check the overall health of your eyes and eyesight. It helps ensure that you can wear contact lenses without difficulties. It is crucial to get annual eye exams to ensure your eyes are healthy with no signs of underlying illnesses.

Choosing Contact Lenses

During the exam, the optometrist will talk about your lifestyle or daily routine. It will help determine the contacts that are most suitable for you. There are various types of lenses available to suit different lifestyles.

You can choose daily disposables, weekly lenses, monthly, or long-term contact lenses. If you have astigmatism, you can choose toric lenses. If you have hard-to-fit eyes, the doctor can recommend lenses to suit your situation. You can choose soft lenses, rigid gas-permeable lenses, or hybrid lenses.    

Taking Eye Measurements

A vital part of a contact lens exam is measuring the eyes to determine the correct contact lens prescription. Taking the measurements allows the doctor to determine the curve and diameter needed for the lenses.

After measuring the iris and pupil, the doctor will conduct a tear film assessment. It will determine if your eyes produce adequate tears, which are necessary to keep the lenses moist. It helps confirm your candidacy for contact lenses.

How to Wear Contact Lenses

After choosing the right contacts and fitting, you will learn how to wear and take out the lenses. Correct contact lens use is vital to ensure you get the desired vision correction. The doctor will order trial lenses to teach you the basics of lens wear. You will also learn how to care for the lenses. You will wear the trial lenses until the next appointment. It will allow you to get used to wearing contacts.

Follow-up Appointment

You will need to schedule a follow-up appointment after the initial exam. It will help ensure the lenses are a perfect fit and your eyes adjust to them. If you experience dryness or discomfort, you need to inform the doctor.

Changing the prescription or contact lens solution can help solve the problem. The doctor may also recommend a different wearing plan. Most people with eye issues find daily disposables more comfortable than long-term wear lenses.

A comprehensive exam includes testing your ocular health and visual acuity. If you need contact lenses, you require additional specialized tests for a contact lens prescription. The lenses fit your unique eye size and curvature.

For more about what to expect at your first contact lens exam, visit Eyecare Associates Optometric Group at our West Covina, California office. Call (626) 415-0274 to schedule an appointment today.