Thinking about switching from glasses to contact lenses? Or maybe you’re just due for your regular contact lens exam? Wherever you are on your contact lens journey, understanding what happens during a contact lens exam can help ease any uncertainties you might have. At Daniel Island Eye Care, we strive to make your experience comfortable, informative, and personalized.
During a Contact Lens Exam, you will undergo a comprehensive eye exam, then your eye will be measured to determine the best fit. With that information in mind, and considering your lifestyle, you will then try on contact lenses to ensure a perfect fit. Finally, a follow-up appointment will check in on your progress and adjust anything needed.
Initial Consultation and Medical History
When you first arrive for your contact lens exam at Daniel Island Eye Care, our friendly staff will greet you and help you check in. We’ll start by reviewing your medical history and discussing any issues you’ve had with your vision or eye health. This conversation helps us understand your specific needs and preferences, whether you’re a first time contact lens wearer or looking to update your current prescription. To get a head start, you can schedule your appointment online or browse through our contact lens exam page.
Comprehensive Eye Exam
Before we dive into the specifics of fitting you for contact lenses, a comprehensive eye exam is essential. This step ensures your overall eye health is good and that there are no underlying conditions that could affect your ability to wear contacts. During the exam, we’ll check for common eye issues like nearsightedness, as well as more serious conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts.
Measuring Your Eyes
A proper fit is crucial for contact lenses, so we’ll take precise measurements of your eyes. Using a device called a keratometer, we’ll measure the curvature of your cornea, which helps us determine the correct lens size and shape for your eye. We’ll also use a corneal typographer to create a detailed map of your cornea’s surface. These measurements will make sure your contacts will fit comfortably and provide optimal vision correction.
Tear Film Evaluation
Your tear film quality is important for contact lens comfort. During the exam, we’ll evaluate your tear production and quality to make sure your eyes can handle wearing contacts without being dry or irritated. If we detect any issues, we’ll discuss potential solutions, such as specific types of contact lenses designed for dry eyes or recommending eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
Discussing Your Lifestyle & Preferences
Contact lenses come in various types, and what works best for you can depend on your lifestyle and preferences. We’ll discuss your daily activities, how often you want to replace your lenses, and whether you prefer daily disposables, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses. We’ll also talk about any specific needs, such as lenses for astigmatism or multifocal lenses for presbyopia.
Trying On Trial Lenses
Once we’ve gathered all necessary information, you’ll get to try on a pair of trial lenses. We’ll show you how to insert and remove them, which might take a bit of practice if you’re new to contacts. Don’t worry – we’re here to help you every step of the way. We’ll check the fit and comfort of the lenses and make any necessary adjustments. This trial period is crucial for confirming the lenses feel right and provide clear vision.
Education & Care Instructions
Proper care and handling of your contact lenses are vital for maintaining eye health. During your exam, we’ll provide detailed instructions on how to clean and store your lenses, as well as tips for safe and comfortable wear. We’ll cover topics like:
- How to wash your hands before handling lenses.
- The correct way to clean and disinfect your lenses.
- How to store your lenses properly.
- Tips for avoiding eye infections and irritation.
We’ll also provide you with well written instructions and answer any questions you have to make sure you feel confident in caring for your new lenses.
Follow Up Appointment
Adjusting to contact lenses can take some time, so we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your progress. During this visit, we’ll ensure that your lenses are fitting well, that your vision is clear, and that you’re not experiencing any discomfort. If any issues arise, we’ll address them promptly and make any necessary adjustments to your prescription or lens type.
Specialty Contact Lenses
At Daniel Island Eye Care, we offer a variety of specialty contact lenses for unique vision needs. If you have conditions like astigmatism or severe dry eyes, or if you need lenses for specific activities like sports, we can provide customized solutions. We’ll discuss these options during your exam and help you find the best lenses for your specific situation.
Transitioning from Glasses to Contacts
If you’re switching from glasses to contacts, the transition might take a bit of getting used to. We’ll provide tips and guidance to help you adapt to your new lenses, allowing a smooth and comfortable transition. You might experience some initial discomfort or blurry vision as your eyes adjust, but we’re here to support you through the process.
Taking the Next Step on Your Contact Lens Journey
A contact lens exam at Daniel Island Eye Care is a thorough and personalized experience designed to make sure you get the best possible vision correction and comfort. From the initial consultation to the follow-up appointment, we’re committed to providing excellent care and making your contact lens journey as smooth as possible. Whether you’re new to contacts or looking to update your prescription, we’re here to help you see the world more clearly. Ready to schedule your contact lens exam? Visit us online or call us today to schedule a consultation or appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal vision and comfort with your new contact lenses.
