How Do You Get Fitted For Contact Lenses

How Do You Get Fitted for Contact Lenses? A Comprehensive Guide

Getting fitted for contact lenses is a crucial step in ensuring comfortable and safe vision correction. Unlike buying glasses, contact lens fitting requires a thorough eye examination and personalized assessment by a qualified eye care professional. This guide will walk you through the process, helping you understand what to expect and how to prepare.

What to Expect During Your Contact Lens Fitting

The contact lens fitting process typically involves several key steps:

1. Comprehensive Eye Exam

This is the foundation of a successful contact lens fitting. Your eye doctor will perform a thorough eye exam, checking for:

• Visual acuity: Determining your refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism).
• Eye health: Assessing the overall health of your eyes, including the cornea, eyelids, and tear film. This is vital to ensure contact lenses won't cause irritation or damage. Dry eyes, for instance, can significantly impact contact lens suitability.
• Pupil size and corneal curvature: Precise measurements are needed to determine the correct lens size, curvature, and power. These measurements are critical for a comfortable and effective fit.

2. Lens Selection and Trial

Based on the exam results, your eye doctor will recommend a type of contact lens based on your individual needs and lifestyle. Different types of lenses exist, including:

• Soft contact lenses: These are the most common type, made from soft, flexible materials and are generally comfortable for daily wear.
• Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses: Offering sharper vision for some individuals, particularly those with astigmatism or corneal irregularities. They're more durable but require a longer adjustment period.
• Disposable contact lenses: Designed for daily, weekly, or monthly disposal, minimizing the risk of infection.
• Extended wear contact lenses: Approved for overnight wear; however, it's crucial to follow your eye doctor's instructions meticulously.

You'll likely try different lenses during the fitting to determine the best fit and comfort. This trial period is essential and might involve several visits.

3. Assessing Comfort and Fit

Your eye doctor will monitor your comfort level and assess the fit of the trial lenses. They'll check for:

• Proper lens centration: Ensuring the lenses are positioned correctly on your eyes.
• Movement and stability: Evaluating how well the lenses move and stay in place.
• Tear film interaction: Assessing how your tear film interacts with the lenses to maintain hydration and prevent dryness.
• Presence of any discomfort or irritation: Addressing any issues promptly.

4. Final Lens Selection and Instructions

After finding the right lens type and parameters, your eye doctor will provide you with a prescription for your contact lenses. You'll also receive comprehensive instructions on:

• Proper lens insertion and removal: Mastering the techniques is crucial for comfortable and safe usage.
• Lens care and hygiene: This includes cleaning, disinfecting, and storing solutions, and following strict hygiene practices to prevent infection.
• Schedule for follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the health of your eyes and ensure the lenses continue to fit properly.

Preparing for Your Contact Lens Fitting Appointment

To ensure a smooth and efficient fitting process, you should:

• Make a list of questions: Prepare a list of your queries to ask your eye doctor about contact lenses, care, and any concerns you have.
• Be open and honest: Communicate any eye problems or allergies you might have.
• Wear your current glasses: This helps your doctor assess your current vision.

Getting fitted for contact lenses is a personalized process. Finding the right lenses may require patience and multiple visits. However, the result – clear, comfortable vision – is well worth the effort. Remember, regular check-ups are essential to maintaining the health of your eyes and ensuring the optimal performance of your contact lenses.