What to Expect During Contact Lens Fitting

Your first doctor’s appointment for contact lens fitting involves you first undergoing a comprehensive eye exam. During this time, they will check the state of your eyes to determine what prescription best suits your condition. The optometrist will inquire about your daily routine to identify the type of lens that complements your lifestyle. Contact lenses can correct your vision and serve aesthetic purposes.

If you are willing to wear contact lenses for the first time, here are a few things to expect during your fitting.

Consultation

The doctor will present your lens preferences and options during your initial fitting appointment. The types of lenses available for you may include:

• Disposable contacts.
• Soft lenses.
• Extended-wear contacts.
• Rigid gas-permeable lenses.

Eye Measuring

After proper consultation, your optometrist will take the dimensions of your eyes. The initial measurement tells the diameter and curvature of your potential contacts. The dimensions also include those for your iris and pupils.

To benefit from contacts, they need to lie directly over your cornea. For this reason, the measurements must be perfect for a healthy and comfortable fit.

Tear Film Evaluation

The next step involves the doctor performing a tear film evaluation. The aim is to check whether your eyes have enough tears. These keep the contact lenses moist. Dry eyes are among the most common problems that affect contact lens wearers.

When this happens, your eyes may feel itchy, irritated, and dry. Contact lenses are not ideal for people with dry eye syndrome. Instead, the doctor may recommend prescription glasses.

Trial and Prescription

After the doctor settles on your ideal contacts, you will test a sample to confirm their comfort and fit. These lenses may stay on for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the optometrists examine how they fit, including the tearing and movement of your eyes. Once all these check out, the doctor will confidently order your contact lenses.

Contact Lens Usage Instructions

After getting your custom contacts, the doctor will advise you on how to wear and remove them safely. At this time, you will receive information on how to take care of your lenses. Proper care of your lenses lowers the risk of infection and keeps your vision pure. Following the doctor’s instructions helps you avoid irritation, redness, and discomfort. The guidelines aim at ensuring optimal eye health.

Contacts are a sure and convenient means to correct your eyesight. However, these are medical devices that require proper treatment and care.

Post-fitting Follow-up

In most cases, your doctor may recommend a follow-up appointment. They aim to monitor how your eyes are adjusting to the contact lenses. They also need to confirm that the contacts are fitting. If you are feeling eye dryness or discomfort, a follow-up visit is the best time to inform your doctor about them.

The optometrist may recommend a different lens or adjustment during the wearing schedule. In some cases, the irritation or discomfort may come from the contact lens cleaning liquid. If this is the problem, your doctor will give you a different lens disinfecting solution.

For more on what to expect during a contact lens fitting, visit Refined Eyecare Optometry at our Torrance, California office. Call (310) 214-0409 to schedule an appointment today.