Transitioning to Contact Lenses

Using some kind of visual aid is something most of us can benefit from. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a refractive error from a young age or, as happens to us all, your sight changes as you get older, eyeglasses or contact lenses bring vision back into focus. For many, glasses are a great solution. But what if you want a life free from this? Contact lenses could well be the answer. While not suitable for everyone, many people successfully make the transition—something that should be done in partnership with your eye doctor. The following looks at what you need to know about contact lens use and the steps to take to successfully make the change.

All About Contact Lenses

• What are contact lenses?
• Are contact lenses suitable for everyone?

What are contact lenses?

Contact lenses are thin, curved, prescription lenses that sit on the surface of the eye to correct a refractive error. They come in both hard and soft forms, but most lenses worn today are the more forgiving soft type. In similarity to eyeglasses, contact lenses are made for your prescription. They are designed to be worn for a specific period. This might be:

• Daily disposables: As the name suggests, these are designed to be applied in the morning for a single day’s use. You take them out before you go to bed and replace them with a new pair the next day.
• Disposable lenses: These can be used for up to 2 weeks, after which they should be disposed of, and a new pair used.
• Frequent replacement: Designed for everyday use for anywhere from 1-3 months
• Traditional reusable: These have a lifespan of around 6 months

Are contact lenses suitable for everyone?

Today’s advanced technology and materials used to make contact lenses mean that the vast majority of those needing vision correction can potentially use contact lenses. However, this doesn’t mean that everyone gets on with them.Some people can’t get to grips with the act of putting them in and taking them out. Others find their eyes become irritated when wearing them. Don’t let this knowledge put you off, as the evolution of the contact lens has been rapid over recent years. Today, even those who’ve tried and failed to use them in the past are often happily surprised when they give them another go.

Steps to a Successful Transition to Contact Lens

• 1 – 2 – 3 steps to success

So, you’re ready to try transitioning from eyeglasses to contact lenses? The following three steps are your road map to success:

• Step 1: Arrange a consultation with your eye doctor: A contact lens consultation involves a vision test and eye examination to check that you’re suitable for contact lenses. You’ll discuss the type that will suit your lifestyle and, once the lenses have been made, be given information about the strict hygiene methods you must follow to prevent any infection from dirty lenses.
• Step 2: Use the lenses as instructed: Dispose of the lenses as instructed, don’t leave lenses in overnight (other than those that are designed for that), and be fastidious about cleaning and hygiene.
• Step 3:  Revisit your eye doctor as recommended: This means attending at least one aftercare appointment per year. If you begin to experience any issues with your lenses, such as irritation or reddening, then seek advice.

There are many different lenses on the market. If you find you don’t get on with the first ones you use, speak to your eye doctor to see which others they recommend trying. The transitional period from eyeglasses to contacts may be smooth or it may be one of trial and error. Partnering with a specialist contact lens ophthalmologist is a key element in your contact lens success.

Considering the Move to Contact Lenses? Contact the West Boca Eye Center Today

At WBEC, we believe that everyone deserves the best vision possible, no matter what their age or level of natural vision. Our dedicated team works with you to determine the ultimate visual aids, such as contact lenses, or treatments that allow you to benefit from the very best eyesight you can. This all starts with high-quality routine eye care, something that everyone should take advantage of. Regular eye checks, whether you wear contacts, glasses, or are blessed with 20/20 vision, are the key to optimal sight. Discover more at https://westbocaeyecenter.com/services/routine-eye-care/ and get in touch today to book a consultation.