If you’re visually impaired but don’t want to wear glasses all of the time, contact lenses can offer a convenient alternative. But contacts aren’t one-size-fits-all. In addition to an eye exam to evaluate your vision, your eye doctor will need to do a contact lens fitting to determine if you’re a candidate and what type will work best for you. 

What To Expect at Contact Lens Fitting

Tear Film Evaluation 

One of the most common issues associated with contact lenses is dry eyes. If the lenses aren’t kept moist, they’ll become uncomfortable and irritating. The doctor will perform a tear film evaluation to see how much moisture your eyes produce. If your tear film is weak or you suffer from dry eye syndrome, the doctor may recommend a brand that locks in moisture. However, if the dryness is too severe, your doctor will suggest other options beyond contact lenses. 

Measurements 

Contact lenses that don’t fit properly can be uncomfortable or, worse, tear the cornea. The doctor will measure the curvature of your cornea with a tool called a keratometer to determine the curve of your lenses. If you have astigmatism, meaning the cornea is not perfectly round, you’ll need a specific type of lens designed for astigmatisms. The doctor will also measure the size of your pupil or iris, which is particularly important for certain types of lenses, such as Gas Permeable, which are made of rigid, durable plastic. 

Allergies & Sun Sensitivity

Your eye doctor will also discuss issues such as allergies and sun sensitivity which may affect contact lens wear. If allergies frequently cause eye irritation, they may suggest daily-wear contacts, rather than weekly or monthly. If your eyes are particularly sensitive to the sun, your doctor may recommend lenses which block UVB and UVA rays, similar to sunglasses. 

Once your doctor has determined you’re a candidate for contact lenses and which type could work best, you’ll get a trial pair before ordering. You’ll first try them on for about 15-20 minutes in the office, while the doctor examines the fit, movement, and moisture. At that time, you can order your lenses or try another pair to see what you prefer.

If you’re a Faribault County resident, turn to the eye care team at Blue Earth Valley Eye Clinic for contact lenses and eyeglasses, as well as comprehensive vision care. With an additional location in Winnebago, these experienced eye doctors provide care for patients of all ages, making them a go-to for family vision services. Call (507) 526-2222 to speak with a staff member or visit the website to request an appointment online.