Video:What to Expect at a Contact Lens Exam

Transcript:What to Expect at a Contact Lens Exam

Hello, this is Doctor Stephen Rozenberg, from 10/10 Optics in NYC, here for About.com. I am going to talk about what to expect during the contact lens exam.

The Refraction Exam

This exam almost always follows a refraction. The two come together. The main test here is to present different lenses to you while you are behind an instrument called a phoropter or refractor. You will see a chart of letters and the doctor will ask you which lens makes the letters you are looking at easier to see. For a current wearer, the doctor will do a refraction over your contact lenses.

Examining the Fit of Contact Lenses

The doctor will look at the fit of your lenses, the shape of your corneas, and the health of the corneas. This is done with the microscope and other non-invasive instruments. Very possibly, a drop of dye, which goes away quickly, is placed on the eye. This allows the doctor to see if the is any break or defect in the integrity of the front surface of the cornea. This is important to avoid a serious problem.

Soft lenses should be left out for an hour or so after the dye is instilled, so bring glasses. If you have no eyewear, ask the office beforehand if they have 1 day disposable that you can wear home. Your own lenses my get stained from the dye. This is not a problem for hard lens wearers.

Prescribing News Lenses

Based on your exam the doctor can write you a prescription for new contacts. If you need a different lens, or if you have never worn lenses, then the doctor cannot write a prescription yet. You will need to go through a fitting process to determine an optimal fitting lens. This may take a few visits. Samples will be dispensed or trial lenses ordered. Ask if there is an extra fee for this. If you have never worn lenses before, there will definitely be a fee for fitting and teaching you how to put on and take off and take care of your lenses.

Use Doctors Specializing in Contact Lenses

This is important. Some doctors will do everything, but do not get involved with contact lenses. Call first. For contact lenses it is best to see a doctor who specializes in contact lenses, both soft and rigid.

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