Contact Lens Exams

Contact Lens Exam at Lock Family Eye Care

Contact lenses make seeing more clearly possible without the hassle of eyeglasses. However, you will need an exam that tests your vision and fits you with the correct contacts before you can wear them. If you are in West Des Moines, come see us at Lock Family Eye Care for your contact lens exam and other eye care services.

woman putting in a contact lens in West Des Moines

Difference Between an Eye Exam and a Contact Lens Exam

A contact lens exam and regular eye exam has many similarities. During both, an eye doctor will test how clearly you can see at a distance and up close. Additionally, the optometrist will determine the prescription level for your corrective lenses and test your eye health. If you choose to wear eyeglasses, your exam is over after these tests. However, you will have a few more steps to take if you want to wear contacts.

To ensure that you have the correct contacts, the eye doctor will perform several measurements of your eyes. First, the optometrist will measure the curvature of your corneas using either corneal topography or a keratometer. Other tests include measuring the amount of tears your eyes create and the sizes of your pupils and irises. Lastly, you will try on some sample contacts until you and the eye doctor find a pair that fits well and is comfortable for you.  

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam

Exams for contact lenses are painless, but you may feel minor discomfort, such as when getting eye drops to dilate your pupils or if you have dry eyes. In addition to the above tests, you will also talk to the optometrist about your expectations. Do you need cosmetic contacts that change your eye color? Or will you want multifocal contacts that allow you to replace both reading and distance eyeglasses?

If you have never worn contacts before, talk to the optometrist about how to put in the contacts and the care required. For ease-of-use and comfort, you may want soft, disposable lenses. But, if you have an irregular cornea, you may opt for gas-permeable lenses to provide sharper vision correction and to stay on the eyes. Also, use the time to ask any questions about wearing contacts and when you need to return for additional eye exams.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Appointment

Caring for your eyes and having sharp vision starts with scheduling regular eye exams. If you want to transition from glasses to contacts, call us at (515) 267-1312 to set your appointment for a contact lens exam. At Lock Family Eye Care in West Des Moines, we care about your vision and eye health. Let us help you to see clearly through a new set of contact lenses.

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