Contact Lens Evaluation

Contact lenses are a very flexible form of vision correction for those who have been using glasses or are new to vision correction. You can wear them regularly, during weekends, for sports, going to the theater or any other special occasion. Today, contact lenses are more comfortable and safer to wear than ever. With that said they are not risk-free and need to be evaluated regularly by an eye doctor.

Going through the evaluation process is an essential part of wearing contact lenses safely. In Sacramento, California, you can be evaluated for contact lenses at Arena Eye Care Optometry. Contact us or read this guide to know what to expect during a contact lens evaluation.

Why Do You Need Contact Lens Evaluation?

Some people assume that contact lenses will fit any eye because they are soft and flexible. That is not true. Dr. Krister L. Holmberg or Dr. Shephali Patel at Arena Eye Care Optometry will assess your eyes to be sure they are healthy enough to wear contact lenses. After that, they take several measurements and then evaluate the lenses on your eyes. Going through this process is required by law to receive a contact lens prescription, even for colored contact lenses that don’t help you see better.

What Measurements Does Your Optometrist Take During A Contact Lens Evaluation?

The optometrist will take various measurements during the fitting:

• Corneal Curvature: We will use corneal topography to measure your eye's curve, which is necessary to determine the best curve of your contact lens.
• Pupil or Iris Size: It is important to get the iris or pupil measurements if you intend to get Gas Permeable lenses. We will take the measures using a biomicroscope.
• Tear Film Evaluation: This helps address the common problem of dry eyes. Dr. Holmberg or Dr. Patel will place a small drop of liquid dye on your eye which is then used to look for damage and/or dryness. If you have a weak tear film, we will recommend contact lenses that do a better job of maintaining moisture.

Can I Try Out Some Lenses During My Evaluation?

The last step of the actual evaluation is trying on the contact lenses. Dr. Holmberg or Dr. Patel will place appropriate lenses on your eyes to observe how they fit. They will assess how the lenses interact with your eyes. They will also measure the visual improvement. Oftentimes you will go home with the lenses on so you get a chance to wear them for a while before the prescription is finalized. The doctors will also give you instructions on how to wear, care for, and store your lenses. It is common to have you return with them on approximately a week later so your eyes and lenses can be evaluated after you have worn them a while. Dr. Holmberg and Dr. Patel want to be certain they are safe for you to wear. You will receive a contact lens prescription when the process is finished, and you can place an order.

Contact Lens Evaluation in Sacramento, CA

Arena Eye Care Optometry in Sacramento, California, is a team of optometrists and other eye care professionals that provide eyecare services, treatment and respond to emergencies.

Contact us now at (916)-419-8167 to schedule a contact lens evaluation or other services.