Getting new contacts can be exciting. They’re convenient, they’re comfortable, and they’re a great way to keep your vision clear. The right fit makes all the difference—after all, contact lenses aren’t universal. However, it’s completely normal to have questions about the process. So what should you expect at your next contact lens fitting?
A contact lens fitting ensures your lenses are the right size, shape, and prescription. Your optometrist works through a series of tests designed to measure your cornea, eye health, and visual clarity. Then, they give you a custom set of lenses that meet your unique needs.
What Is a Contact Lens Fitting & Exam?
A contact lens fitting and exam is about more than just visual clarity. It’s a process where your optometrist assesses your eyes to find a pair that works for you.
During the exam, your optometrist works through different tests. They all matter, and they help your optometrist learn about:
- The shape and curvature of your cornea, to ensure the lenses fits appropriately.
- Your tear film production, to determine if your eyes can maintain moisture with lenses.
- Your prescription, to provide the best possible vision correction.
- Any specific conditions or sensitivities that may affect lens choices.
These steps are key to finding your future lenses. A proper lens fit is crucial to comfortable vision, so thorough fittings and exams are important.
What Can Be Detected During a Contact Lens Exam?
Your eyes reveal a lot about your overall health. That’s why contact lens fitting and exams don’t just check your vision. They’re a great way to uncover subtle conditions that may not be showing obvious symptoms.
Your optometrist can detect signs of:
- Dry eye disease
- Allergies affecting the eyes
- Corneal abnormalities
- Eye infections or inflammations
- And more!
These issues are all easier to treat early on—before symptoms start affecting your vision. This means these exams are a valuable tool for staying on top of your eye health.
What to Expect from a Contact Lens Fitting
Contact lens fittings are a great way to make sure your future lenses fit both your eye and visual needs properly. And it all starts the moment you walk in the door!
Before the Contact Lens Fitting
It helps to be prepared for a contact lens exam. The more information you provide, the better. So make sure you bring along:
- A list of any symptoms or vision changes you’ve experienced recently
- Your current glasses or contact lens prescription, if applicable
- A list of any eye drops or medications you are currently using
- The name of the contact brands that have not worked well for you, or ones you like.
- The name of the cleaning solution that you use, if applicable
- An understanding of your intended use of the contact lenses (ex. Sports only, social events, weekends), and your priorities with contact lens wear (ie freedom from both distance and reading glasses, or best possible vision, convenience, etc).
All of this information is invaluable, as your optometrist can use it to tailor your contact lens fitting to your needs.
During the Contact Lens Fitting
Once the appointment begins, your optometrist will guide you through the next steps. They’ll start by asking a few general questions about the information you’ve provided. Then, they’ll work through different tests, each with a different goal.
Usually, these tests are included in a contact lens fitting and exam:
- Keratometry, which measures the curvature of your cornea
- Tear film evaluation, which checks for signs of dryness and irritation
- Refraction, which determines your prescription for contacts or glasses
- Movement & orientation of the lens, which helps confirm that your eye will be healthy in the prescribed lens
After the Contact Lens Fitting
After the contact lens fitting you will be given a sample set of lenses with your exact prescription and fitting parameters to try out before you make a purchase. While using your trial lenses, make sure to note anything unusual about your vision or the comfort of the lenses. A follow up visit may be required.
Remember: these exams are about finding a pair that suits your unique needs. If you have any questions, make sure to bring them up! It’s all part of the process.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Contact Lenses
When it comes to contact lenses, a little care goes a long way. Proper maintenance makes all the difference here.
After your exam, your optometrist will give you some general advice for maintaining your new lenses. Some standard advice includes:
- Always wash your hands before handling your lenses.
- Replace your lenses as scheduled, whether that’s daily, biweekly, or monthly.
- Specific cleaning instructions will be provided for reusable lenses. Never use water on your lenses.
- Never sleep in your lenses
- Never swim in your lenses
- Don’t wear your lenses while you are sick.
Taking the time to care for lenses protects your eye health and makes sure your contacts can do their job.
Book Your Next Contact Lens Exam Today
A contact lens fitting is the first step toward clear, comfortable vision, and our team at Tutt Street Optometry Clinic is here to help. Book your next contact lens exam with us today, and we’ll work with you to find your future lenses!
