Do You Need a Separate Exam for Contacts?
If you wear glasses and are thinking about switching to contact lenses, or if you already wear contacts, you may be wondering: Do I really need a separate exam for contact lenses? The answer is yes. While it might seem like a regular eye exam should cover everything, contact lenses require extra steps to ensure they fit your eyes properly and provide comfortable, clear vision.
If you are considering getting contacts, you will definitely need a separate exam. Here’s why a separate contact lens exam is necessary and what it typically includes.
Why Contact Lenses Require a Separate Exam
Contact lenses are medical devices that sit directly on the surface of your eye. Because of this, your eye doctor needs to do more than just check your vision. They must also assess the health of your eyes, measure specific parts of the eye, and determine the best type and size of lens for your needs.
Unlike glasses, which simply sit in front of your eyes, contact lenses interact with your eye’s surface. That’s why even people who already have an eyeglass prescription still need a contact lens exam before they can wear contacts safely.
What’s Included in a Contact Lens Exam?
A contact lens exam typically includes everything in a regular eye exam. Not only that, it includes some additional tests that are mentioned below:
Corneal measurements: Your optometrist will measure the curvature of your cornea to determine the right lens fit. An incorrect fit can cause discomfort or damage to your eye.
Tear film evaluation: This test checks whether your eyes produce enough tears to wear contacts comfortably. If you have dry eyes, your doctor may recommend specific lens types or treatments. Find a reliable doctor like the ones at Pearle Vision to make sure your evaluation goes smoothly.
Lens trial and fitting: You’ll be given trial lenses to test how they feel and perform. Your doctor may adjust the fit or type based on your feedback.
Follow-up visit: A follow-up appointment helps ensure the lenses fit well and your eyes remain healthy after wearing them for a few days.
Contact Lens Prescription vs. Glasses Prescription
One key reason a separate exam is necessary is that your contact lens prescription is different from your glasses prescription. It includes details like:
- Base curve
- Diameter
- Lens brand/type
- Power (which can vary slightly from glasses)
You can’t order contacts using a glasses prescription because the lenses sit directly on the eye, not slightly in front of it like glasses do.
Can You Get Both Exams at Once?
Yes! Many optometrists offer combined appointments where they conduct a comprehensive eye exam and a contact lens fitting in the same visit. However, because contact lens exams require more time, equipment, and follow-up care, they typically cost more than a standard eye exam.
It’s also worth noting that your eye doctor may not finalize your contact lens prescription until you’ve worn trial lenses and returned for a follow-up check.
So, whether you’re a first-time wearer or just need to update your prescription, don’t overlook the importance of a proper contact lens exam. Your eyes will thank you for it.
