Getting Contact Lenses: A Step-by-Step Guide

Contact lenses offer a convenient vision correction alternative to eyeglasses. However, you must undergo several exams and fittings before you can get your prescription contact lenses. Your eye doctor near you at Lock Family Eye Care in West Des Moines, IA, is here to outline the steps necessary for getting contacts and ensuring comfortable lens wear.

Schedule an Eye Exam

The first step toward getting contact lenses is scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist. This exam will assess your overall eye health and determine if your eyes are suitable for contact lenses. Your optometrist will perform the following tests during an eye exam:

•           Visual acuity test: Your optometrist does this to measure your ability to see at different distances.

•           Refraction test: This test determines your prescription for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

•           Tonometry: Your optometrist does this to measure the pressure inside your eye and screen for glaucoma.

Contact Lens Exam

Once your eye exam results indicate you can wear contact lenses, your optometrist will perform a contact lens exam. This exam involves the following:

•           Corneal topography: This painless imaging test maps the shape and curvature of your cornea to determine the best fit for your contact lenses.

•           Trial lens fitting: Your optometrist will place different trial lenses in your eyes to assess comfort, fit, and visual clarity.

•           Teaching lens insertion and removal: Your optometrist will provide step-by-step instructions on correctly inserting and removing your contact lenses.

Trial Period and Follow-Up Care

Your optometrist will provide trial lenses to wear for a designated period to asses comfort and ensure proper lens fit. Your optometrist will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your eye health and ensure your contact lenses function correctly. These follow-up visits are crucial for maintaining good eye health and preventing potential complications.

Contact Lock Family Eye Care for a Contact Lens Exam Today

If you are searching for an “eye doctor near you” in West Des Moines, IA, for contact lenses or other eye care services, contact Lock Family Eye Care today. We offer comprehensive eye care services, including contact lens exams, fittings, and ongoing care to protect your eye and vision health. Call us and schedule an eye exam today at (515) 267-1312 to discuss your vision correction options.