How to Prepare for Your Contact Lens Exam

If you’re considering switching from glasses to contact lenses or updating your current prescription, your next step is scheduling a contact lens exam. While it might sound similar to a regular eye exam, a contact lens exam includes additional testing to ensure your lenses fit comfortably and provide optimal vision. Understanding the process and how to prepare can make your visit smoother and more productive.

How a Contact Lens Exam Differs from a Routine Eye Exam

A routine eye exam evaluates your overall eye health and determines your glasses prescription. It focuses on checking vision clarity, eye coordination, and the health of your retina, cornea, and other internal structures.

A contact lens exam, however, goes a step further. In addition to checking your vision and eye health, your optometrist measures the surface of your eye to determine the right lens shape, size, and material. This includes:

Corneal curvature measurements using a keratometer or corneal topographer.
Tear film evaluation to ensure your eyes produce enough moisture for comfortable wear.
Trial lens fitting to assess comfort, movement, and vision clarity.

These additional steps help your eye doctor at Atlanta Eye Group customize your contact lenses to your unique eye shape and lifestyle needs.

How to Prepare for Your Contact Lens Exam

Taking a few simple steps before your appointment can help ensure accurate results:
Wear your current contacts or glasses. This allows your optometrist to compare your current prescription and identify any vision changes.
Bring your current prescription and lens boxes. This helps the doctor understand the brand, fit, and type of lenses you’ve been using.
Avoid wearing contact lenses on the day of your fitting (if instructed). Depending on the test, your optometrist may ask you to leave your lenses out for a few hours or a full day prior to the appointment.
Think about your daily habits. Consider how often you use digital devices, play sports, or experience dryness - these factors can influence which type of contact lenses are best for you.
List any symptoms or concerns. Dryness, irritation, or difficulty seeing at night can all affect lens selection.

Questions to Ask During Your Exam

To make the most of your visit, consider asking your optometrist:

Which type of contact lenses are best for my lifestyle (daily, biweekly, monthly)?
Are there options to help with dryness or astigmatism?
What should I do if my contacts feel uncomfortable?
How should I properly clean and store my lenses?
Are there newer lens materials or technologies I should consider?

Your optometrist will provide guidance tailored to your eyes and preferences so you can feel confident about your choice.

Find the Perfect Contact Lens Fit for Your Eyes

Preparing for your contact lens exam helps you get the most out of your appointment and ensures your lenses provide clear, comfortable vision. By understanding the difference between a routine eye exam and a contact lens exam, following a few preparation tips, and asking the right questions, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision about your eye care.

Schedule your contact lens exam with Atlanta Eye Group to receive expert guidance, precise fittings, and a personalized care plan designed for your eyes. Visit our offices in Atlanta, Alpharetta, or Kennesaw, Georgia, or call (772) 272-9470 to book an appointment today.