What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re considering contact lenses for the first time or returning to them after a break, it’s important to know what goes into a proper contact lens exam. Unlike a standard vision test, a contact lens exam involves additional steps to ensure your eyes are healthy and your lenses are a perfect fit. At Anderson Eyecare, we’re committed to helping you experience comfortable, clear vision. Here’s what you can expect during your contact lens exam.

What Is a Contact Lens Exam?

A contact lens exam is more than just a prescription update. It’s a detailed assessment specifically designed for individuals who wear or wish to wear contact lenses. It includes testing for visual acuity, evaluating your eye health, measuring the shape of your cornea, and determining which type of contact lens is most suitable for your needs and lifestyle.

Comprehensive Eye Health Evaluation

Your exam will begin with a comprehensive eye health evaluation. This step is essential to detect any underlying eye conditions such as dry eye, allergies, or infections that could affect your ability to wear contact lenses comfortably. Your optometrist will review your eye history, current vision concerns, and overall health background to ensure contact lenses are a safe choice for you.

Corneal Measurements

The curvature of your cornea plays a critical role in contact lens fitting. Using specialized tools like a keratometer or corneal topographer, we’ll take precise measurements of your cornea. These measurements help determine the base curve and diameter of your lenses, ensuring they fit securely and comfortably on your eyes.

Tear Film Analysis

Contact lenses require a healthy tear film to remain hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. A tear film analysis will be performed to assess the quantity and quality of your tears. If you have signs of dry eye syndrome, your optometrist may recommend treatment options before moving forward with contact lenses.

Contact Lens Fitting and Trial Lenses

Once we’ve gathered all the necessary information, we’ll select trial contact lenses for you to try on during your visit. This step allows us to evaluate how the lenses fit on your eyes and how well you see with them. Your comfort, vision clarity, and eye response to the lenses will all be closely monitored. Adjustments can be made to lens type or fit based on your experience.

Education on Lens Care and Wear

If you're new to contacts, our team will guide you through the entire process. You’ll receive one-on-one instruction on how to properly insert and remove your lenses, how to clean and store them, and how to recognize signs of potential issues. Understanding proper lens hygiene is essential to maintaining healthy eyes and prolonging the life of your lenses.

Find the Perfect Fit at Anderson Eyecare

A contact lens exam is a comprehensive and personalized experience designed to ensure that your lenses offer clear vision, a comfortable fit, and long-term eye health. At Anderson Eyecare, we take every step to make sure your contact lens journey is smooth and successful.

Ready to explore contact lenses or need to update your current prescription? Schedule your contact lens exam with Anderson Eyecare and let our expert team help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Visit our office in Hermitage, Tennessee, or call (615) 883-9595 to book an appointment today.