If you’ve never worn contact lenses before, the idea can feel a little intimidating — after all, you’re putting something directly on your eye. But with the right guidance and a proper exam, the process is simple, safe, and comfortable. Here’s what you can expect during your contact lens exam and fitting at Med Center Eye.
Your Contact Lens Exam Begins with a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Your doctor will first evaluate your overall eye health and vision to ensure that contact lenses are a good option for you. This part of the visit includes:
- A conversation about your medical and visual history
- Assessment of eye focusing, eye teaming, depth perception, and color vision
- Peripheral vision testing
- Evaluation of pupil responses to light
- Glaucoma screening using eye pressure measurements
- Dilated internal exam to assess the retina and optic nerve
- Visual acuity testing to determine if contacts can improve your vision
Discussing Your Contact Lens Preferences
If contact lenses are appropriate for you, your doctor will help you choose the type that best fits your needs and lifestyle. During this discussion, you might explore:
- Whether you want to enhance or change your eye color
- The difference between daily disposables and extended-wear lenses
- Options tailored for dry eye or sensitive eyes
- Solutions for age-related vision changes (presbyopia)
Feel free to ask questions — understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each lens type helps you make the best choice.
Measuring the Surface of Your Eye
Contact lenses must fit precisely. Your doctor will take detailed measurements to ensure comfort and proper vision correction:
- Keratometry: Measures the curvature of your cornea (the front surface of the eye).
- Pupil size measurement: Helps determine the right lens design for your eyes.
Do You Need a Tear Film Evaluation?
If you have symptoms of dry eye — such as burning, redness, or fluctuating vision — your doctor may perform a tear film evaluation. This test measures how well your eyes stay moisturized.
If your tear film is insufficient, traditional contact lenses may not be the best option. However, many newer lenses are designed to retain moisture and can be a better fit for individuals with dryness issues.
Your Contact Lens Fitting
Next, your doctor will fit you with a trial pair of contact lenses. After inserting them, they will examine how the lenses sit on your eye, checking alignment, movement, and overall comfort.
If the fit looks good, your doctor will perform additional tests to verify that the prescription provides clear, comfortable vision.
Now It’s Your Turn to Try Them Out
Your contact lens exam doesn’t end after the fitting. You’ll typically wear your trial lenses for about a week. During your follow-up visit, your doctor will make sure the lenses are working well and that your eyes remain healthy.
If everything looks good, you’ll be able to order a supply of lenses. And if this is your first time wearing contacts, don’t worry — your optometrist will guide you through insertion, removal, care instructions, and any questions you may have.
Be sure to let us know ahead of time if you’re interested in contact lenses so we can schedule additional time for the lens consultation and special tests.
Ready to get started? Request an appointment today.
