Rob Sawyer, OD

Unlike glasses, which only require a prescription, contacts sit directly on the surface of your eyes, so the fit must be precise for both comfort and safety.

During a contact lens fitting, the eye doctor takes detailed measurements of your eyes. This includes the curve and diameter of your cornea, the size of your pupils, and sometimes the white part of your eye (sclera) to determine how the lens will sit. Pupil size is important in specific situations. For example, people with large pupils may notice halos or glare when driving at night if the lens’s optical zone is too small. Pupil size also affects the fit of multifocal lenses, which provide clear vision at multiple distances. The tear film is checked to ensure your eyes stay comfortably moist. Trial lenses allow you to test both clarity and comfort before a final prescription is written.

First-time wearers receive hands-on training, learning how to insert and remove lenses safely and how to clean and store them properly.

The fitting also helps determine the best type of contact lenses for your needs. Options include daily disposables for convenience or weekly and monthly lenses for cost-effectiveness, as well as specialty lenses like toric lenses for astigmatism or multifocal lenses for presbyopia.

Because this process involves extra testing, time, and expertise beyond a standard eye exam, it is usually billed separately. The goal is to ensure your contacts are safe, effective, and tailored specifically to your eyes. When scheduling your appointment, mention if you are interested in a contact lens fitting and whether you are a first-time wearer.

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining healthy vision and detecting potential eye problems early. Even if your vision seems clear, an exam can uncover issues like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration before they cause noticeable symptoms.

A routine eye exam primarily focuses on your vision and determining whether you need glasses or contact lenses. During the exam, the eye doctor performs several tests, including:

• Visual acuity: Measures how clearly you see at near and far distances using eye charts.
• Peripheral/visual field testing: Checks side vision to detect blind spots or early signs of glaucoma.
• Color vision testing: Determines if you have difficulty distinguishing colors, which can affect daily tasks.
• Eye movement and focusing tests: Ensures your eyes work together and can shift focus smoothly between distances.
• Basic eye health evaluation: Looks at the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve for any visible signs of disease.

Routine exams also allow your prescription for glasses or contact lenses to be updated if needed. The frequency of exams depends on age, health, and risk factors, with most adults benefiting from an eye exam every one to two years.

Scheduling a routine eye exam helps keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy. Be sure to mention any vision changes or health concerns, and whether you wear contact lenses when booking your appointment so the eye doctor can provide the most thorough care.