Contact Lenses FAQs
Just like glasses prescriptions, contact lens prescriptions correct vision. However, because contact lenses need to fit on your eyes, they include measurements on curvature, diameter, and lens material. These measurements are provided by your optometrist.
No. Because your contact lenses sit on the surface of your eyes and glasses are about 12 mm away, the information on the prescriptions is different. There are also extra specifications on your contact lens prescription that would not appear on your glasses script.
A contact lens fitting by an optometrist is essential because contact lenses are classed as medical devices. Your optometrist is required by law to ensure they fit both eyes correctly and do not cause harm to your eyes.
First, wash your hands, then put a contact lens on the tip of your finger. It should look like a little bowl – (if the edges flare out, it is inside out). Lift your upper eyelid and pull down your lower lid. Look up and gently bring the lens to your eye. Release and blink. Repeat for the other eye.
Wash your hands, then bring the tip of your index finger to your eye, slide the lens down your eye and gently squeeze between your thumb and finger. Repeat for the other eye.
Yes, contact lenses are safe to wear. World-wide, about 125 million people wear contact lenses.
NEVER use tap water. Squeeze a few drops of contact lens disinfecting solution into the palm of your washed, clean hand. Gently rub the lens with one finger. Rinse the lens with a little more solution and put it in your clean contact lens case. Repeat with the other lens.
NEVER use tap water to clean contact lenses or your lens cases.
No. A contact lens cannot get stuck behind your eye. The membrane that covers the whites of your eyes connects to the inside of your eyelid, so a lens cannot fall or drop or land behind your eye.
Absolutely! Except for water sports, optometrists recommend contact lenses over glasses for sports.
Contact lenses are not recommended for swimming. It is best to wear goggles when you are swimming. Ask your local optometrist about prescription swim goggles. These can either be ready-made or you can receive custom-made lenses with your exact prescription.