According to the Center for Disease Control, roughly 45 million Americans wear contact lenses to improve their vision. To keep up with the ever-increasing demand for contacts, All Eye Care Doctors provides effective and affordable prescription eyewear to families in Medford, MA, Cambridge, and the surrounding communities. However, many individuals are reluctant to make the switch from glasses to contacts because they are unsure what to expect during lens fitting appointments — so, we put together this brief guide to help you. Get your reading glasses ready; let’s take a closer look at the lens-fitting process!
What Happens Before a Contact Lens Fitting?
Before your eyes are fitted for contact lenses, they must be thoroughly examined by one of our qualified eye doctors. The pre-fitting exam is essential because we must be certain that you have no issues with your eye health, which could potentially be exacerbated by the use of contact lenses. Once you get the “all-clear” from the doctor performing your eye examination, it’s time to proceed to your lens fitting!
What Happens During a Contact Lens Fitting?
At the start of your lens fitting appointment, you will consult with a doctor about your needs and preferences while factoring in your eye health and vision needs. This includes choosing between daily disposable contacts or overnight lenses, in addition to picking between soft and rigid gas permeable lenses. Following this consultation, the doctor will measure your pupils, irises, and corneal curvature, in addition to performing a tear film evaluation. These measurements are taken with various harmless instruments, including a keratometer, lights, rulers, and non-toxic dye. Eventually, you may be asked to try on diagnostic lenses so the doctor can evaluate how closely they fit.
What Happens After a Contact Lens Fitting?
After you’ve had your lenses successfully fitted, your eye doctor will write a prescription and offer instructions and advice regarding how to use and care for your contacts. Additionally, you will likely be asked to return for at least one follow-up visit to ensure that you are not experiencing any issues with your eye health and finalize your contacts prescription. You should return for an examination at least once a year to ensure that no problems arise.
For more information about what to expect during contact lens fittings, see our press release here. Contact All Eye Care Doctors today to schedule a contact lens fitting near Cambridge, MA, Medford, and the surrounding communities!