People with refractive errors can improve their vision in various ways. Many turn to contact lenses in pursuit of better eyesight. It is understandable why many people prefer contact lenses. They are more affordable than eye surgery and more convenient than eyeglasses. 

What Is a Contact Lens Exam?

A contact lens exam is not the same as a regular eye exam. Rather, you undergo the former in addition to the latter. An eye exam is necessary to help your eye doctor determine whether you need vision correction in the first place. If so, you will undergo other tests related to contact lenses.

Think of it as an add-on to a comprehensive eye examination. A contact lens exam can have several components, especially if it is your first time wearing contacts. It may also include instructions on putting them in and out and how to care for them properly. These tests ensure that your contact lenses fit comfortably and give you clear vision. 

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam

Your contact lens exam may not contain all the components mentioned below. However, these are the most common steps encountered by people ready to switch to contacts.

Consultation

The initial consultation will allow you to ask any questions you might have. Your optometrist will discuss the contact lens options that suit your needs and lifestyle and answer all your questions. 

Do you have presbyopia, astigmatism, or any other conditions that may affect the type of lenses your wear? If so, your optometrist will make appropriate recommendations accordingly. You may also discuss the pros and cons of different disposable lenses.

Eye Measurements

Your optometrist will measure specific parts of your eye during your contact lens exam to ensure your contacts fit well. Some of these measurements include the following:

• Corneal curvature.
• Contact lens diameter.
• Pupil size.
• Tear Film Evaluation

You will have difficulty wearing contact lenses if your eyes are prone to dryness. So, your optometrist may use specific tools and techniques to examine your tear film. This evaluation will help determine the appropriate lens material for you.

Contact Lens Fitting

The fitting process will help determine how the lens fits and functions in your eye. Your optometrist will ask you to wear trial lenses based on the findings of the tests mentioned above. The doctor will then examine your eyes through a slit lamp microscope to determine centration and proper movement. 

He/she will also test your vision acuity while wearing contacts to determine whether they perform correctly. This part will resemble the refraction tests performed during regular eye exams.

After the Exam

Once your optometrist confirms the appropriate fit, you will get your lens prescription. However, you may need to practice putting your contacts in and taking them out if you are a first-time wearer. Your eye doctor will have helpful tips and guide you through the steps.

Conclusion

You cannot just buy any pair of contacts and start wearing them. A contact lens exam is necessary to help your eye doctor determine whether you are a suitable candidate for contact. 

For more about contact lens exams, visit Montebello Optometry, Eye Clinic & Dry Eye Center, at our office in Montebello, California. Call (323) 772-5800 to book an appointment today.