Contact lenses have revolutionized the way we correct our vision. They offer freedom from glasses, an unobstructed field of view, and aesthetic enhancements. However, contact lenses must fit your eyes perfectly to work their magic. Improperly fitted ones may result in discomfort or even damage your corneas, the front surface of the eye on which contact lenses physically sit.
Everyone’s eyes are different. In fact, even your own two eyes are unique from each other. That is why a comprehensive eye exam and contact lens fitting from an optometrist is the best way to find the contact lenses just right for you, individually.
What is the Ideal Contact Lens Fitting?
An ideal contact lens fitting is crucial for both comfort and eye health. Poorly fitted lenses can lead to discomfort, eye strain, and even serious eye conditions. Proper fit ensures that your lenses move slightly with each blink (but not too much), promoting sufficient tear exchange and oxygenation.
A well-fitted contact lens should sit snugly on the cornea, allowing enough movement to maintain good eye health. It should also cover the cornea completely and align with the eye’s curvature. When your contact lenses fit properly, you will experience better vision, increased comfort, and a reduced risk of complications. This makes it easier to wear them for extended periods of time, whether you are working, exercising, or relaxing.
How Do I Know What Size Contact Lenses to Get?
Optometrists use specialized tools to measure your eye. Key measurements include the corneal diameter and the base curve of your eye. The base curve of a contact lens refers to its curvature. A flatter base curve suits eyes with less curvature, while a steeper base curve fits more curved eyes. The diameter of the lens ensures it covers the cornea adequately without interfering with the eyelids.
Finding the perfect fit often requires trying a few different lenses. A professional contact lens fitting considers all of these variables, and your optometrist can provide trial lenses to assess how they fit and feel on your eyes. This process helps fine-tune the fit for optimal comfort and vision.
How Do I Know If My Contacts Fit Correctly?
Whether you are trying out contact lenses for the first time or getting an upgrade, it can be challenging to know if your contacts are fitting correctly. Watch out for:
- Comfortable Wear. Your lenses should feel comfortable throughout the day. Your lenses may not fit correctly if you experience discomfort, irritation, or a foreign body sensation.
- Clear Vision. Your contact lenses should provide clear and stable vision. Blurry or fluctuating vision can indicate a poor fit. Ensure your lenses remain centered on your eyes and do not shift excessively.
- Redness or Irritation. Healthy eyes should be free from redness or irritation. If your eyes become red, itchy, or watery, this could be a sign that your lenses are not fitting correctly.
What Happens During a Professional Contact Lens Fitting?
A professional contact lens fitting is a comprehensive process. It involves several steps to ensure that your lenses fit well and meet your visual needs.
- Initial Consultation. Your optometrist will ask about your lifestyle, visual needs, and previous contact lens experiences. This information helps tailor the fitting process to your specific requirements.
- Eye Examination. This includes measuring the curvature of your cornea, assessing your tear film, and checking for any underlying eye conditions. These measurements are crucial for determining the best lens fit.
- Trying Different Lenses. Once the measurements are complete, your optometrist will provide trial lenses. You will try these lenses on to see how they fit and feel, and your optometrist will evaluate the lens movement, alignment, and comfort to ensure they are the right fit.
Choosing the Right Contact Lens Material
During the initial consultation, your optometrist may ask what contact lens material you would like. The material of your contact lenses plays a significant role in comfort and eye health, and different materials offer various benefits.
- Soft lenses are made from hydrogel or silicone hydrogel. They are flexible and conform to the shape of your eye, providing excellent comfort. Silicone hydrogel lenses offer higher oxygen permeability, which is beneficial for long-term wear.
- Rigid gas permeable (GP) lenses are made from firm, oxygen-permeable materials. They provide crisp vision and are durable. However, they may take longer to adapt to compared to soft lenses, which are usually more comfortable.
- Hybrid lenses combine the benefits of soft and GP lenses. They have a rigid center for clear vision and a soft outer ring for comfort. They’re ideal for individuals who need the clarity of GP lenses but want the comfort of soft lenses.
Daily vs. Extended Wear Contact Lenses
Your optometrist may ask you how frequently you want to use contact lenses. This will inform the schedule of your lenses. Choosing the right schedule depends on your lifestyle and preferences.
- Daily wear lenses are designed to be worn during the day and removed before bedtime. They are available in daily, bi-weekly, or monthly disposables. These lenses are easy to maintain and reduce the risk of eye infections.
- Extended-wear lenses are made from highly breathable materials and can be worn continuously for up to 30 days, including overnight. However, to avoid complications, they require careful adherence to cleaning and replacement schedules.
Consider your daily routine and preferences when choosing between daily and extended-wear lenses.
Adjusting to Wearing Contacts
When starting with your new contacts lenses, try following the 4-to-1 Rule: If possible, give your eyes a one-hour break every four hours of wearing them. This allows your eyes to breathe and helps prevent dryness and irritation.
Eye Love Optometry, passionate in providing personalized care, is committed to using the most advanced technologies in providing patients with the most precise, individualized contact lens fitting possible. Contact us today to get started using contact lenses the right way.
