A contact lens fitting is a process where an eye care professional, typically an optometrist or ophthalmologist, measures and evaluates the eyes to determine the best contact lenses for a person’s visual needs. It involves various tests and measurements to ensure the contact lenses fit comfortably and provide optimal vision correction.
What to Expect During a Contact Lens Fitting
It’s important to understand the comprehensive process that ensures the lenses you receive are perfectly suited to your eyes and vision needs. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:
1. Medical History & Previous Experience
The eye care professional will first inquire about your medical history and any previous experience you have with contact lenses. This step is essential to determine the most suitable type of contact lens for your needs.
2. Comprehensive Eye Exam
Next, a comprehensive eye exam is conducted to evaluate the health of your eyes. This includes:
- Checking your visual acuity
- Examining both the front and back parts of your eye
- Measuring the curvature and size of your cornea
3. Measurement of Eyes
The eye care professional will then measure your eyes using specialized instruments, such as a keratometer or a corneal topographer, to ascertain the shape and curvature of your cornea. These measurements are vital for ensuring a proper and comfortable fit for the contact lenses.
4. Selection & Trial of Contact Lenses
Once the measurements are taken, a trial pair of contact lenses is selected for you to try on. You will be taught how to:
- Insert and remove the contact lenses
- Maintain proper hygiene and care for the lenses
5. Evaluation of Fit & Comfort
After wearing the trial lenses for about 15 minutes, the eye care professional evaluates the fit and comfort. If necessary, adjustments are made or a different type or brand of contact lens is chosen to ensure optimal comfort and fit.
6. Prescription & Follow-Up
When the best fit is achieved, you will receive a prescription for your contact lenses. It is crucial to adhere to this prescription and schedule regular check-ups to maintain eye health while wearing contact lenses.
Why Is a Contact Lens Fitting Necessary?
A contact lens fitting is necessary for several reasons:
Determine the Right Prescription
Contact lenses come in different sizes, materials, and types to correct various vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. During a fitting, the eye care professional will evaluate your eyes and determine the appropriate lens power, size, and type for your specific vision needs.
Check Eye Health
Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye, so it’s crucial to ensure that they do not cause any damage or discomfort. The fitting process includes a thorough examination of your eyes to check for any existing or potential issues, such as dryness, allergies, infections, or other conditions that may affect your ability to wear contacts.
Learn How to Properly Handle & Care for Your Lenses
Contact lens fitting also teaches you how to safely insert, remove, clean, and store your contact lenses. Proper handling and care are essential in maintaining healthy eyes and preventing eye infections.
Determine the Best Type of Contact Lens for Your Lifestyle
Whether you’re an athlete, have a busy lifestyle, or suffer from dry eyes, your eye care professional will recommend the most suitable type of contact lenses to match your specific needs. This may include daily disposables, extended wear, rigid gas permeable (RGP), or multifocal lenses.
Promote Comfort
Ill-fitting contact lenses can cause discomfort, irritation, and even damage to your eyes. By going through a professional contact lens fitting, you can ensure that your lenses fit properly and provide clear, comfortable vision.
Monitor Your Progress
After the initial fitting, it’s important to follow up with your eye care professional to make sure your contact lenses are working well for you. This may involve checking the fit, comfort level, and overall health of your eyes.
Address Issues or Concerns
If you experience any discomfort, redness, blurry vision, or other problems while wearing your contact lenses, it’s important to consult with your eye care professional right away. They can help determine the cause of the issue and make necessary adjustments to ensure your eyes are healthy and comfortable.
Maintain Good Overall Eye Health
Regular contact lens check-ups also allow your eye care professional to monitor the overall health of your eyes, not just concerning your contact lenses. This can help detect any potential issues early on and prevent more serious conditions from developing.
Visit White Oaks Optometry for Personalized Contact Lens Fittings
Contact lenses can be a great option for those looking for clear, comfortable vision without the hassle of glasses. By going through a professional contact lens fitting and following up with regular check-ups, you can find the right lenses for optimal vision and maintain good eye health. If you experience any issues or concerns while wearing contacts, don’t hesitate to consult with your eye care doctor for proper guidance and support.
At White Oaks Optometry in London, Ontario, our team is dedicated to providing personalized contact lens fittings and ongoing care for our patients. Book your appointment with us today and let us help you find contact lenses for your lifestyle and vision needs.
