What Happens During a Contact Lens Fitting?

A contact lens fitting is a specific type of eye exam designed to assess your overall eye health and determine the best type of contact lenses for your unique needs. It takes into consideration the size and shape of your eyeballs to ensure a comfortable fit. The process can seem daunting, especially if it's your first time, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a breeze.

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam

First off, your optometrist will conduct a comprehensive eye examination. This involves checking your visual acuity, measuring your eye pressure, and examining the health of your eye structures under high magnification.

Next, your eye doctor will measure your eyes to determine the right size and type of contact lenses for you. This step involves a process called corneal topography, where a special device maps the curve of your corneas. Your optometrist will also measure your pupil or iris. These measurements are crucial in ensuring that your contact lenses fit comfortably and provide clear vision.

The Process of a Contact Lens Fitting

The process of a contact lens fitting is quite straightforward. Once your optometrist has conducted the initial eye exam and taken the necessary measurements, they will select a pair of trial lenses for you to try on. These lenses are typically disposable and are used solely for fitting purposes.

Once the trial lenses are in, your optometrist will check how well they fit and move with your eye. They will also assess your vision with the lenses in and ask you about how comfortable the lenses feel. If necessary, they may make adjustments or try different lenses until they find the perfect fit.

The process of a contact lens fitting is designed to ensure your comfort and safety. Don't hesitate to voice any concerns or discomfort you feel during the fitting. Your optometrist is there to help and wants to ensure you walk away with the best fitting contact lenses for your needs.

Post Contact Lens Fitting: What Comes Next?

Once your optometrist is satisfied with the fit and comfort of your lenses, they will give you a prescription. This prescription will include specific information about your lenses, including the brand, power, diameter, and curvature.

The next step is learning how to care for your contact lenses. Your optometrist will provide you with instructions on how to clean, disinfect, and store your lenses. This step is crucial to maintain the health of your eyes and prolong the life of your lenses.

Finally, it's essential to schedule regular follow-up visits with your optometrist. These visits are necessary to ensure that your contact lenses continue to fit well and that your eyes remain healthy. Your eyes can change over time, and so can your contact lens needs.

Making the Most of Your Contact Lens Fitting

A contact lens exam may seem like a lengthy process, but it's essential for ensuring the health and comfort of your eyes. The key to a successful fitting is open communication with your optometrist. Don't be afraid to ask questions or voice any concerns you may have. The goal is to find the best fitting lenses that meet your unique needs.

To learn more on what happens during a contact lens fitting, visit Drs. Hiura & Hiura Optometrists at our San Francisco, California office. Call (415) 776-2352 to schedule an appointment today.