Why Do I Need to See An Optometrist for My Contact Lenses?

There’s a lot of confusion out there about contact lenses. With the many, MANY contact lens options out there, it can sometimes be hard to know what contact lens brand will work the best. It can also be hard to know what contact lenses are actually SAFE to wear on your unique eyes.

So, why is it so important to see an optometrist for your contact lenses?

1) Because Optometrists are Specially Trained in Contact Lenses

Optometrists receive years of training about contact lenses. The optometrist must look at the contact lens under a microscope to make sure it fits properly and isn’t damaging your eyes. They will also be able to determine what type and brand of contact lens fits the best based the unique shape of your eye. If you are new to wearing contacts, optometrists and their staff will be able to teach you how to put in and take out a contact lens safely and how to care for them properly.

2) Because Contact Lenses are a Medical Device

Contact lenses sit directly on your eye and affect how oxygen flows to your cornea. If a contact lens isn’t fitting properly or isn’t cared for, it can cause potentially blinding infections and permanent vision loss. Contacts you buy online or from a costume store may not necessarily be sterile or FDA approved for use, which may increase your risk of infection. They also may not fit your eyes properly, which could also increase your risk of eye damage.

3) Because Contact Lenses Are Not One Size Fits All

Each contact lens has a different size and shape, which changes how the contact lens sits on the eye. If the contact is too tight, it can mean your cornea isn’t getting enough oxygen, which can cause damage or infection. If the contact is too loose, it can cause irritation and poor vision from it moving too much on the eye.

4) Because Contact Lens Technology is Always Improving

Just because someone may have not been a candidate for contact lenses in the past, doesn’t mean they may not be a candidate now. Companies are constantly coming out with newer and better lenses that provide better optics, are more breathable, and are healthier for the eyes. If you’ve always wanted to try contact lenses, or if you have been wearing the same brand for a long time and are looking for better clarity and comfort, ask your optometrist what’s new in the world of contact lenses! You may find a contact lens brand you really love.

5) Because Your Eyes Change Over Time

In my experience, people’s glasses and contact lens prescriptions will typically change every 1-2 years. Having your contact lenses looked at by your optometrist yearly can help ensure that your contact lens prescription is up-to-date, that the contact lens is still fitting well, and that you are seeing great.

6) Because Glasses Prescriptions Are NOT Contact Lens Prescriptions

Many people don’t realize that the contact lens prescription and glasses prescription are completely separate prescriptions and are rarely even the same numbers. This is because contact lenses sit directly on the eye and focus light differently than glasses. By having a contact lens exam, an optometrist can find a prescription specifically for your contacts.

If you haven’t had an updated contact lens exam in a while, are interested in trying a new brand, or have always been curious about contact lenses but never known if they were right for you, be sure to visit your optometrist!