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Do I Have to Get Fitted for Contact Lenses?

One size does not fit all when it comes to the distinct shape, size and care of your eyes. If you are considering contact lenses over prescription glasses, the first thing you need to do is book your comprehensive eye exam. Be sure to allow enough time for assessment tests, evaluation of your eye health and medical history, determination of your prescription needs and any concerns or questions you may have. Questions may include “do I have to get fitted for contact lenses?”

If opting to wear contact lenses for convenience and comfort, your eye doctor will perform special tests in addition to a comprehensive eye exam to determine the size and type of contacts best for you. Your doctor will also evaluate the health and curve of your cornea as well as your tear film production; dry eye can affect if contact lenses are right for you or if your doctor will need to prescribe a suitable lens specific to dry eye. A fitting for contact lenses is necessary as an improper fitting of contact lenses can be harmful or even damaging to the health of the eyes. Measurements for proper fitting vary as well given that contacts rest directly on the eye and prescription eyeglasses are positioned approximately 12 millimeters from your eyes. Your eye doctor will take measurements of the front of your eye and select trial lenses for you to try. You cannot be sure that contact lenses are right for you until you practice putting them in and taking them out by yourself. Allow extra time at your appointment to learn how to use contact lenses. 

Once you’ve become comfortable with using contact lenses, your eye doctor will need to determine which type of contact lenses to order for you based on your medical needs, lifestyle and personal preference. The most common lenses are soft lenses. Disposable lenses are a popular option and can come in a variety of life spans including daily, 14 days, or 30-day wear lenses. Other contact lens options include rigid gas permeable (RGP), scleral and toric lenses. RGP lenses are a hard alternative to soft lenses. This type of lens is customized to the shape of your cornea serving to correct any irregularities. RGP lenses slow the progression of myopia and may work for those with high astigmatism. Scleral lenses are a type of RGP contact lens that cover a larger diameter resting on the sclera, the white part of the eye. Scleral contact lenses are beneficial for patients who have corneal diseases and degenerations such as keratonocus and those who have had a corneal transplant or refractive surgery. Toric lenses are spherical shaped, like a football, and are used to correct astigmatism. As different lenses correct different needs, it is important to have the proper fitting to ensure the lens is working to your benefit. Most people love the transition from glasses to contacts. For a stress-free exam to get fitted for contact lenses, call Premier Eye care & Surgery Center at 847-459-6060 or visit us at WEBSITE.