Contact Lens Fittings And Evaluations

Contact lenses are thin, curved discs that float on the tear film that floats on the surface of the eye, covering the cornea. With advances in optical technology, patients can wear contact lenses regardless of their vision problems. Contact lenses can be worn to correct myopia, nearsightedness, hyperopia, or farsightedness, or astigmatism. They can also be worn by patients who need bifocal or multifocal lenses. 

Our optometric specialist, Dr. Purvi Patel, fits patients with new contact lenses and updates current pairs. A yearly contact lens eye exam is important in helping maintain the health, vision, and comfort of the eyes.  The exam is necessary for anyone interested in wearing contact lenses and for those who are currently wearing contact lenses. 

The Contact Lens Examination

During a contact lens examination, Dr. Patel will evaluate both the contact lenses and the surface of the eye to determine which contact lens and what care is best suited for your eyes.

Because each eye is shaped differently, the contact lens for one eye may not be the same size as the other eye. Dr. Patel will take measurements during the examination to determine which type of contact lens will fit the eyes. These measurements include:

• The curvature of the cornea to determine the diameter and curve of the lenses. 
• Size of the pupil and iris to determine the best contact lens
• Evaluation of the tear film to determine the quality of the tears. For patients with dry eye syndrome, standard contact lenses may not be a good choice. 

If you are a new patient wearing contact lenses or a patient who is changing the choice of contact lenses, you may be offered trial lenses to help determine which lenses are the best selection for your eyes. This process allows Dr. Patel to make adjustments to the contact lens prescription. 

Types of Contact Lenses

Depending on the measurements taken during the contact lens examination and review of your vision conditions, Dr. Patel will prescribe contact lenses that meet your needs. There are many different types of contact lenses and they are prescribed according to your vision condition. They may include : 

• Soft contact lenses
  These are the most commonly prescribed lenses and are known for comfort and adaptability. They are disposable lenses that come with various wearing options.
  
• Rigid gas permeable lenses
  These lenses are harder than soft lenses but they help patients with complex vision conditions. Because they have a high oxygen permeability, there is less of a risk of the patient developing an eye infection.
  
• Toric lenses
  These lenses are usually prescribed for patients with astigmatism
  
• Bifocal or Multifocal lenses
  These lenses have different powers for near and far vision. They are used to correct difficulties in focusing or to prevent the progression of myopia.
  
• Ortho-k lenses
  These lenses are worn overnight and are used to reshape the cornea.
  
• Scleral lenses
  These lenses are for patients who have an irregularly shaped cornea and rest on the sclera, or white, portion of the eye.

If you are a new patient, bring your eyeglasses as well as your contact lens package with their specifications when you schedule your contact lens examination.