If you've ever thought about trading your eyeglasses for contact lenses, you're not alone. Many people make this switch for a variety of reasons - some prefer the look of contacts, while others find them more convenient for physical activities. However, before you can enjoy these benefits, you'll have to go through a contact lens exam. A contact lens exam is designed to find the perfect pair of contact lenses that not only correct your vision but also fit your eyes comfortably and meet your lifestyle needs.

 

Preparing for Your Contact Lens Exam

To get the most out of your contact lens exam, it's important to come prepared. First, be ready to discuss your lifestyle and visual needs with your optometrist. Do you spend long hours in front of a computer? Do you play any sports? These factors can influence the type of contact lenses that would be best for you.

Also, if you're currently wearing eyeglasses, bring them along with your most recent prescription. Your optometrist will use this information as a starting point for determining your contact lens prescription.

Lastly, prepare yourself for a thorough eye examination. This may include the use of eye drops to dilate your pupils, allowing the optometrist to get a better look at the inside of your eyes. The contact lens exam might take longer than a regular eye exam, but the time spent is necessary to ensure you get the perfect fit.

 

Types of Contact Lenses

There are several types of contact lenses available today, each designed to meet different vision needs and lifestyle preferences. By understanding these options, you can make an informed choice when it comes time to select your lenses.
 

Soft contact lenses are the most common type. They are made of flexible plastic that allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea. This makes them comfortable to wear and ideal for people who lead active lifestyles. Soft lenses can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
 

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, on the other hand, offer clear, crisp vision. They are more durable than soft lenses and can correct most vision problems. However, they require a longer adaptation period and consistent wear to maintain comfort.
 

Then there are specialized lenses like multifocal contact lenses for presbyopia, toric lenses for astigmatism, and colored or cosmetic lenses that change the appearance of your eye color. Your optometrist will help you choose the right type according to your vision needs and lifestyle.

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Contact Lenses

After your contact lens exam, you'll need to decide on the type of lenses you want. Here are some factors to consider.
 

First, consider your lifestyle. If you're active or travel frequently, daily disposable lenses might be a good choice as they require no cleaning. But if you're more budget-conscious, monthly or bi-weekly lenses could be more cost-effective.
 

Next, think about your comfort. Some people find soft lenses more comfortable, while others prefer the crisp vision provided by RGP lenses. Also, consider how well you can handle and care for your lenses. Some types require more maintenance than others.
 

Lastly, consider your eye health. If you have dry eyes or allergies, certain types of lenses or lens materials may be more suitable for you. Your optometrist will guide you in making the best choice based on these factors.

 

The Role of an Optometrist

The role of an optometrist in determining the perfect contact lenses for your eyes cannot be overstated. They are the professionals who will guide you through every step of your contact lens journey, starting from the exam and ending with the perfect pair of lenses.

During the contact lens exam, the optometrist will perform several tests. They'll measure the curvature and diameter of your cornea, the clear front surface of your eye. This is crucial because the contact lenses must fit the shape of your cornea perfectly to provide clear vision and comfort. They will also evaluate your pupil and iris size, which further helps in selecting the perfect contact lenses.

Besides these measurements, the optometrist will also assess your eye health and tear production. Some people might have dry eyes or certain eye conditions that might make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or even harmful. The role of optometrist in determining the perfect contact lenses extends to ensuring that your eyes are healthy enough for contact lens wear.

 

Ensuring Clear and Comfortable Vision

A contact lens exam is a crucial part of finding the perfect contact lenses for your visual needs. Don’t hesitate to ask our optometrist any questions you may have about contact lenses. We're here to help you see clearly and comfortably.

If you are interested in wearing contact lenses, visit General Vision Express Len Lab at our facility in Brooklyn, New York. We will help you determine which contact lenses are perfect for you. Call 718-486-6055 to schedule an appointment today.