Why a Contact Lens Exam Is Different from a Routine Eye Exam

When it comes to maintaining healthy vision, most people know the importance of getting regular eye exams. However, if you wear or are interested in wearing contact lenses, you’ll need more than just a routine eye exam. A contact lens exam involves specialized testing and fittings that go beyond checking your prescription and overall eye health.
 

What a Routine Eye Exam Covers

A routine eye exam focuses on assessing your overall vision and eye health. During this appointment, your optometrist will:
 

•          Check your visual acuity and update your eyeglass prescription if needed.

•          Examine the internal and external health of your eyes.

•          Screen for common eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

•          Evaluate how well your eyes work together and check for focusing problems.
 

This type of exam ensures your eyes are healthy and your glasses prescription is accurate.
 

What Makes a Contact Lens Exam Different

A contact lens exam includes everything in a routine eye exam plus additional steps that focus on the safe and effective use of contact lenses. These may include:
 

•          Corneal measurements: Instruments measure the curvature and shape of your cornea to determine the correct lens size and fit. Even small variations can make a big difference in comfort.

•          Tear film evaluation: The health and quality of your tear film are assessed, as dry eyes can affect how well contact lenses perform.

•          Trial lens fitting: Trial lenses may be placed on your eyes so your optometrist can evaluate their fit, comfort, and vision quality.

•          Lens material and type selection: Depending on your lifestyle and visual needs, our doctor will recommend lenses such as daily disposables, monthly wear, toric lenses for astigmatism, or multifocal lenses for presbyopia.

•          Instruction and training: For new wearers, your visit also includes training on inserting, removing, and caring for your lenses.
 

Why the Extra Steps Matter

Glasses sit in front of your eyes, but contact lenses rest directly on the surface of your eye. This difference means that even minor fitting issues can cause significant problems, such as:
 

•          Eye discomfort and irritation

•          Blurry or fluctuating vision

•          Increased risk of corneal infections or abrasions

•          Long-term complications from overwear or poor oxygen flow
 

A dedicated contact lens exam helps prevent these issues and ensures your lenses are not only correcting your vision but also protecting your eye health.
 

When to Schedule a Contact Lens Exam

You should book a contact lens exam if:
 

•          You are interested in trying contact lenses for the first time.

•          You’re experiencing discomfort, dryness, or blurry vision with your current lenses.

•          It has been a year or more since your last contact lens check-up.

•          Your lifestyle or vision needs have changed, and you want to explore different lens options (such as switching to daily disposables or multifocal lenses).
 

Personalized Care at Poplar Spectacles Optometry

While both routine eye exams and contact lens exams are vital for maintaining clear vision and eye health, the additional testing and fitting in a contact lens exam are essential for safe and comfortable lens wear. Skipping these steps could mean the difference between a great experience with contacts and ongoing eye problems.
 

At Poplar Spectacles Optometry, we make it simple to enjoy the freedom and comfort of contact lenses. Schedule your contact lens exam and experience the difference personalized care can make. Visit our office in Alamo, California, or call (925) 202-2846 to book an appointment today.