All patients wanting contact lenses, need a contact lens evaluation. The evaluation lets our doctors properly fit you with contact lenses that give you the best clarity in your vision and feel comfortable on your eyes. The contact lens evaluation is necessary to ensure the lenses are fitting both eyes properly and that the health of the eyes is not at risk by wearing the contact lenses. Your contact lens team will perform special tests during your contact lens evaluate and test your vision with the contacts. The first test will measure your eyes to determine what size and type of contacts are best for you. Your doctor may also do a tear film evaluation to ensure you have enough tears to comfortably wear contacts.

With the results of those tests, your eye doctor can provide a contact lens prescription that is right for your eyes. An eyeglass prescription is not a substitute for a contact lens exam. Your eyeglass prescription measures for lenses that are positioned a specific distance from your eyes; whereas a contact lens prescription measures for lenses that sit directly on the surface of your eyes. An improper fitting contact or a incorrect prescription can damage the health of your eyes.

Once you have the correct fit and prescription for contacts, you’ll need to decide whether you want disposable contacts or extended wear, and if you want your contacts to be colored or clear. Your doctor will fit you with a trial pair of contacts and have you wear them for a few days. In about a week, you’ll need a follow-up exam to make sure you have adjusted to your new lenses and prescription. During your contact lens exam and fitting session, we recommend that you do not wear eye make-up including eye-liner, mascara, eye shadow or eye lash enhancements. Doing so can cause irritation to your eye during the initial fitting.