Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are small, thin, curved plastic disks that are placed in front of the cornea of the eye to correct vision disorders such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, to name a few. They serve the same purpose as glasses but are comparatively lighter in weight and less visible. Contact lenses are naturally transparent, but they can often be tinted for visibility at the time of handling. They are soft and have a high water content, which makes them comfortable to wear. While contact lenses are most commonly worn to correct vision, lenses come in a variety of colors, and they can have a cosmetic purpose as well.
Two main types of lenses are soft contacts and rigid gas-permeable contact lenses. Your visit to the doctor’s office will help you make a well-informed decision about the right type of lenses for you. The visit for contacts will be slightly more elaborate as comp ared to a regular eye checkup. The doctor will check to ensure that your eyes are healthy enough to be given contacts. They may measure your eyes to find the best-fitting contacts for you. If you are new to contact lenses, your practitioner will teach you how to place the lenses in your eyes and take them out correctly.
Common questions and answers about contact lenses
When should I consider getting contact lenses?
The most common reason to get contact lenses include:
- If you are an active person.
- If you’d like to maintain your appearance without glasses but need to correct a vision disorder.
- If you want to temporarily change your eye color.
- If you want to get rid of your glasses for another reason.
What are associated risks?
- Old lenses may cause eye infections.
- Improper sized lenses can scratch your eyes.
- Using eye drops while wearing contact lenses can cause problems.
Read “How to Take Care of Contact Lenses” by the American Academy of Ophthalmology to learn about quick tips related to contact lenses.
What should I know about colored contact lenses?
Colored contacts are medical devices. It is best-advised to avoid buying colored lenses as over-the-counter merchandise. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, sellers that advertise them as cosmetic products and sell them without prescriptions are breaking the law. A doctor can help avoid eye injuries caused by poor quality lenses. Another reason you should consult your doctor is that all lenses aren’t of a universal size, and the doctor can help measure your eye size and find your right fit. Ill-fitted lenses can lead to corneal infection, conjunctivitis, decreased vision, corneal scratches and blindness.
What can you expect during a visit for contact lenses?
- A comprehensive eye checkup.
- Your practitioner will measure your eyes to find the most suited type of lens for you.
- Once the lenses have been prescribed to you, your doctor will help get comfortable with using the contacts.
Where can I find a doctor for a contact lens exam near me?
At Zocdoc.com! You can book an appointment with top-rated contact lens doctors in your location. Booking is simple, secure and free!
What are some quick tips for a visit for contact lenses?
- Before you visit, write down any questions and concerns that you may have.
- Ask about any possible risks and side effects.
- Check to see if the practitioner is covered by your insurance providers.
What is the cost of contact lenses?
Costs might vary based on the doctor your visit, your condition, location and insurance provider.
Sources:
American Academy of Ophthalmology
MedlinePlus
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
