Contact Lens Exam
A contact lens exam involves more than a standard eyeglass exam, so patients need to be prepared for the additional tests and measurements. This is because an eye doctor in Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, must ensure that the lens fits perfectly on your cornea. The better the fit, the more comfortable you’ll feel (even after wearing them all day long).
What to Expect from a Contact Lens Exam
A contact lens exam measures the dimensions of the eyes, assessing not just your eye health but also which type of contact lens would work best for you. When it comes to lenses, there is no one ‘right’ lens for everyone. For example, if you have an astigmatism, you may not be eligible for certain brands.
Here are a few things to know before scheduling an exam:
- The optometrist is examining the curvature of your cornea (also known as the surface of the eye).
- They’ll measure the size of the pupil and iris, while also assessing your tear production. People without sufficient tears may have a difficult time with certain types of plastic lenses, so this helps the optometrist make better recommendations.
- Throughout it all, they’ll usually ask questions that help them get a better idea of your lifestyle. Those who are very active or workaholics may need to either adjust their contact lens schedule or opt for a different kind of lens.
- You can expect the exam to last for around an hour, but it can take less time depending on the patient. It’s important to make room in your schedule to get a few extra tests done.
You’ll undoubtedly notice several similarities between a contact exam and a standard eye exam. The optometrist looks at everything from visual acuity (e.g., how well you see at different distances, etc.) as well as any early symptoms of more serious eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts, etc.).
How Often Should You Get a Contact Lens Exam?
Eye doctors in Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, recommend these exams at least once a year. Even if you’re seeing perfectly well in your contacts, your prescription may still have changed, which can cause unnecessary strain to your eyes. Plus, these exams are important to assess how your eyes progress over the years. It makes it that much easier for the staff to spot anomalies.
Contact Lenses in Grosse Pointe Woods, MI
If you’re ready to transition from glasses to contacts (or it’s been a while since you’ve had an exam), it’s important to have a contact lens exam. Not only can you typically not purchase contacts without an updated prescription, but it’s important to see a professional before you decide which one is right for you. At Weeden Eye Clinic, we can help you narrow down the choices so you get a better experience.
