Contact lenses are clear lenses that fit over the eye, making them a discreet alternative to prescription glasses. Contacts can correct a variety of vision problems. This article will explore this method of vision correction, discussing when contact lenses are a good fit, what to expect during a contact lens examination, and why these exams are important.
Contact lenses, also known as simply “contacts,” fit over the eye's cornea. The iris and pupil constitute the cornea. It is important to have an optometrist fit one’s contact lenses, as they must fit directly over the cornea and not extend to the white of the eye. An optometrist may utilize contacts to correct the following vision problems:
An optometrist can evaluate one's candidacy for contact lenses during an examination. Some common factors may make contacts a poor choice for vision correction. Typically, contacts are not ideal for patients who:
In order to get contact lenses, patients must visit an optometrist for a contact lens exam. A vision test is an important component of this exam, as the optometrist will use an eye chart and various lenses to create a custom prescription. They will also assess one's overall eye health.
Up to this point, the exam will be similar to a regular eye exam. If the patient seems like a good candidate, the optometrist will then fit them for contact lenses. This involves taking measurements of the eye's surface (specifically, the cornea) to determine which type and size of contact would be best. Another test, known as a "tear film evaluation," can ensure enough natural eye lubrication to support contacts. The optometrist will then recommend various contact lenses (soft lenses, disposable contacts, extended-wear contacts, etc.) to find one that best fits the patient's needs.
The optometrist will prescribe about a week's worth of trial contact lenses and schedule a follow-up evaluation. This allows the patient to ask for a different type of contact if necessary. Alternatively, they can have adjustments made to their prescription or the fit of their current contacts.
Patients can also expect annual eye exams after receiving contacts. These help the optometrist track one's eye health, order new contacts, and ensure this method of vision correction continues to work as intended.
Contact lens exams are crucial for several reasons, the first being that vision changes over time and one’s prescription will likely need to be updated over the years. Contacts can also impact the long-term health of the eye because the cornea cannot absorb as much oxygen when covered by a contact lens. This can lead to eye irritation and dryness, which an optometrist may remedy with a different type of contact. In some cases, switching to glasses is the best option.
Routine contact lens exams also allow the optometrist to ensure that the contacts continue to fit properly. If contacts become misshapen or damaged, the optometrist will order replacements to protect the health of the eye. Allowing the patient to wear ill-fitting contacts (whether too big or shrunken) can lead to a host of issues.
Wearing ill-fitting contacts puts one at risk of eye injury, infection, and disease. For example, if the contacts scratch the cornea (corneal abrasion), the patient may experience eye pain and redness, light sensitivity, and headaches. Corneal abrasion may become infected and negatively impact vision.
Ill-fitting contact lenses could also result in corneal ulcers, eye infections, and vision loss, such as from tight lens syndrome (a result of shrunken contact lenses that stick to the eye). Additionally, it is possible for patients to develop a contact lens intolerance due to poorly fitting contacts. The good news is these issues may be avoided, prevented, and, if needed, treated quickly through annual contact lens examinations.
If you are considering getting contacts or if you wear contacts and have not been to the optometrist in over a year, consult our optometrist. We can help update your prescription, order new contacts, or ensure that your current contacts are in working order. Call our office today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.texasoptical.net or call Texas Optical at (214) 771-7333 for an appointment in our Dallas office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Contact Lenses in Dallas, TX.
A contact lens exam addresses different questions than a standard eye exam. It evaluates the cornea, lids, and tear film, then matches lens materials and designs to vision needs and eye health. Lenses sit directly on the eye, so small details such as curvature, diameter, and oxygen flow influence comfort, clarity, and safety. An optometrist…
Standard vision tests, or eye exams, help ensure accurate prescriptions for glasses and support long-term eye health for people who wear corrective lenses. Even small prescription changes can affect headaches, screen comfort, and night driving clarity. Eye exams also screen for conditions that may not present with early symptoms, making routine testing an important habit.…
Pediatric eye care is the key to clear vision and confident learning that starts in childhood. Unfortunately, even minor vision problems can negatively affect reading, coordination, and classroom focus. Many parents come to realize how common it is for children to pass quick screenings yet struggle with focusing, eye strain, or fatigue during schoolwork. A…
The selection of eyewear feels significantly easier when the styles and craftsmanship of Versace eyewear enters the conversation, since bold lines and iconic detailing create an instantly recognizable look. Versace represents the intersection of Italian fashion and Greek mythos, blending confident glamour with symbolism through its signature Medusa logo. The brand is widely associated with…
Standard vision tests, or eye exams, help ensure accurate prescriptions for glasses and support long-term…
A contact lens exam addresses different questions than a standard eye exam.
Pediatric eye care is the key to clear vision and confident learning that starts in…
Face shape classification sets the direction for identifying the most flattering styles within Versace eyewear.
Many people who work in construction or laboratories wear safety glasses to protect their eyes…
Would you like to learn more about our transition lens options? Call our Dallas office…
