Blog:What Happens During a Contact Lens Exam?
What Happens During a Contact Lens Exam?
If you’re considering contact lenses or it’s time for an updated prescription, scheduling a contact lens exam is the first step toward clearer, more convenient vision. At Texas State Optical Seguin, we understand that the process may seem intimidating if you’ve never worn contacts before, but our comprehensive contact lens exam will ensure that you leave feeling confident about your new lenses. Here’s what to expect during your contact lens exam and fitting.
Before diving into the specifics of contact lenses, your optometrist will conduct a thorough eye exam to assess your overall eye health and vision needs. This includes checking for any signs of eye conditions such as dry eyes, astigmatism, or any other issues that could impact your ability to wear contact lenses comfortably. The eye health exam also involves measuring your vision, much like a traditional eyeglass prescription exam, to ensure you have the correct prescription for optimal vision.
After assessing your eye health, your optometrist will perform a series of specialized measurements to determine which type of contact lenses will best suit your eyes. Some of the key measurements include:
• Corneal curvature: This helps the optometrist select the right size and shape of contact lens. If you have an irregular cornea, you may require specialized lenses like toric or scleral lenses.
• Pupil and iris size: Accurate sizing of your eye ensures that the lenses fit properly and stay in place during wear.
• Tear film evaluation: If you have dry eyes, your optometrist will check your tear production to ensure you can comfortably wear contact lenses. Special lenses designed for dry eyes might be recommended.
Contact lenses come in various types—soft lenses, rigid gas permeable lenses, daily wear, extended wear, multifocal, and more. During your exam, the optometrist will discuss your lifestyle, vision needs, and preferences to help choose the right type of contact lenses. If you have conditions such as astigmatism or presbyopia, specific lens options, such as toric or multifocal lenses, may be necessary.
Once the appropriate type of lenses is selected, you’ll be given a trial pair of contact lenses to test how they fit and feel. The optometrist will assess the lenses' position on your eye, ensuring that they fit comfortably, move correctly with your eyes, and provide clear vision. This fitting process helps ensure that your lenses won’t cause irritation or discomfort during daily wear.
If you’re new to contact lenses, your optometrist will guide you through the process of inserting and removing your lenses. You’ll also learn about proper contact lens hygiene, including how to clean and store your lenses to prevent infection and ensure the longevity of your lenses. It’s essential to follow these instructions carefully to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
In many cases, you’ll be asked to return for a follow-up visit after a few weeks of wearing your new lenses. This allows your optometrist to check that the lenses are still fitting well and that your eyes are adjusting comfortably. If any adjustments are needed, your optometrist will make them during the follow-up to ensure long-term comfort and clarity.
A contact lens exam at Texas State Optical Seguin is a personalized, thorough process designed to ensure your contact lenses meet your vision and comfort needs. Whether you’re a first-time contact lens wearer or looking to update your prescription, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule your contact lens exam with Texas State Optical Seguin and experience the freedom of clear, comfortable vision without the need for glasses. Visit our office in Seguin, Texas, or call (830) 392-1650 to book an appointment today.