Key Takeaways
- An eye doctor checks your vision and maps the shape of your eyes.
- You get to practice with sample pairs before making a decision.
- A follow up visit helps verify the lens fit and your vision clarity.
- Healthy screen habits and proper rest keep your eyes comfortable all day.
Your Path to Clearer Vision
Maybe you’ve felt the frustration of your lenses fogging up when you open a hot dishwasher. Or maybe your glasses slide down your nose. If so, contact lenses offer a great alternative. The transition from glasses to contacts, however, requires an appointment known as a contact lens fitting.
At a contact lens fitting, your eye doctor maps the surface of your eyes and lets you practice with sample lenses to find a comfortable match. As your eye doctor in Novato at Total Vision Novato, we can help you through each step of this process, including how to insert your contacts safely.
Your Initial Vision and Health Assessment
General Eye Health Check
Our team starts by reviewing your family medical history to understand your background. We’ll evaluate your overall eye health status and screen for basic eye conditions before moving forward with specific tests. This helps us identify factors that might affect how you wear your contacts. For example, severe seasonal allergies can make your eyes too sensitive for certain lens materials.
Vision Prescription Review
A contact lens prescription differs from a glasses prescription due to the fact that contact lenses sit directly against the surface of your eye. We’ll determine your prescription needs and confirm that you’re a good fit for contacts before we recommend a pair.
Eye Measurements & Surface Evaluation
Cornea & Pupil Measurements
We’ll measure your cornea (the clear, front surface of your eye) as well as your pupils in order to determine a fit. A properly fitted lens reduces friction when you blink.
Signs of Dry Eyes
Comfort is a major focus during a contact lens fitting. Our team will look for issues that might make wearing contacts uncomfortable over time. This includes common signs of dry eyes, such as:
- Redness around the eye area.
- Irritation or itchy sensations.
- Watery or tired eyes throughout the day.
Lens Options & Trial Pairs
Discussing Your Daily Lifestyle
Sharing your daily routines with your eye doctor helps them narrow down your options. For instance, a busy athlete might want daily disposable lenses for easy cleanup, while someone who works at a computer desk might prefer a monthly option that retains moisture better. We want to help you find a good match for your lifestyle.
Practice with Trial Lenses
You’ll get to try out a sample pair before making a commitment to your lenses. We’ll also teach you how to insert your lenses safely in a relaxed setting. It takes a little patience at first, but the movements soon become second nature.
The Follow Up Visit & Final Prescription
Review Fit & Comfort
You’ll return to the clinic after 1 week of wearing your sample pair. At this point, we’ll check that your vision is clear and that your trial lenses are fitting as they should. Make sure to let us know if you’ve any problems, for example, if your lenses seem to make your eyes feel dry by the late afternoon.
Getting Your Contact Prescription
At this point, you’re ready for your prescription. This document details the brand of lens you’ll be wearing as well as the size and shape of your lenses. You can then order a one year supply of contact lenses.
Care Habits & Helpful Rules
Contacts & Sleep
You should take your lenses out before you sleep. Keep your naps under twenty minutes to avoid irritation upon waking up. Remove your lenses before long rest periods to let your eyes breathe freely.
The 20-20-20 Rule
Extended screen time can strain your eyes. The 20-20-20 rule recommends that you take 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes. This gives your eyes time to rest and recover and makes computer use more comfortable.
Visit Your Optometrist Today
Total Vision Novato can help you navigate this process with ease. Call our clinic today to schedule your evaluation and explore your lens options.
