Contact lenses offer a convenient alternative to traditional eyeglasses, providing clear vision without the hassle of frames. However, many people have questions about proper care and whether contact lenses are right for them. At Hill Vision Services, we frequently help patients navigate these concerns. Here are answers to the most common questions about contact lens care.
Am I a Good Candidate for Contact Lenses?
Thanks to advancements in contact lens technology, more people than ever can successfully wear contacts. We offer a wide selection of brands, materials, and replacement schedules to accommodate different needs and lifestyles. From daily disposables to toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal options for presbyopia, there’s likely a solution that works for you.
The first step in determining your candidacy is scheduling a comprehensive eye exam. During this examination, we’ll assess your vision, eye health, and specific needs to recommend the best contact lens option.
Certain conditions can make contact lens fitting more challenging, including keratoconus, dry eyes, astigmatism, presbyopia, or previous eye surgery. However, our doctors specialize in fitting specialty lenses that improve vision while remaining comfortable for everyday use.
How Old Do You Need to Be to Wear Contact Lenses?
There’s no set age requirement for wearing contact lenses. Success with contacts depends more on motivation and responsibility than age alone. Middle school tends to be a popular time when young people express interest in trying contacts.
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Good personal hygiene habits
- Responsibility and maturity
- Understanding of proper lens handling and care
The decision to move forward with contacts should involve agreement between the patient, parents (for minors), and the eye care practitioner.
What Should I Expect During a Contact Lens Fitting?
During your contact lens fitting at one of our convenient locations in Creve Coeur, Lake St. Louis, or Glen Carbon, we’ll take time to understand your goals and lifestyle needs. The process includes:
- Discussion of Your Needs: We’ll ask questions about your daily activities, work environment, and preferences
- Trial Lens Placement: We’ll place trial lenses on your eyes to assess fit, comfort, and vision quality
- Education and Training: Once we find the right lens, we’ll teach you proper insertion, removal, and care techniques
Don’t be discouraged if handling lenses feels tricky at first. Our experienced staff has plenty of helpful tips, and with practice, most patients master the technique quickly.
Can I Sleep in My Contact Lenses?
While some contact lenses carry FDA approval for extended or continuous wear, our doctors strongly advise against sleeping in your contacts. Wearing lenses overnight significantly increases your risk of eye infections and corneal ulceration.
The safest approach is to remove your lenses each night and follow the manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule. This simple habit protects your eye health and reduces the likelihood of complications.
How Often Should I Get My Eyes Checked If I Wear Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are classified as medical devices, which means regular monitoring is essential. We recommend annual eye exams for all contact lens wearers. During these examinations, we assess:
- Your vision quality and prescription accuracy
- Overall eye health
- Contact lens fit and condition
- Any necessary adjustments to your lens type or care routine
Between scheduled exams, you should remove your lenses and contact our office immediately if you experience:
- Redness or irritation
- Discomfort or pain
- Sensitivity to light
- Changes in vision
- Discharge or excessive tearing
These symptoms could indicate an infection or other issue requiring prompt attention. If you experience any eye emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out.
What Types of Contact Lenses Are Available?
At Hill Vision Services, we offer an extensive selection of contact lenses to meet various vision needs:
Soft Contact Lenses: We carry the nation’s most popular brands like Acuvue and Air Optix, with options including daily disposables, toric lenses for astigmatism, and multifocal lenses for presbyopia. Our competitive pricing is comparable to online and retail prices.
Specialty Lenses: For patients with keratoconus, severe dry eyes, irregular astigmatism, or other challenging conditions, we provide custom specialty lens fittings. Gas permeable (hard) contact lenses can correct both regular and irregular astigmatism and may be suitable for patients who haven’t had success with soft lenses.
Ordering Convenience: If you’re already a contact lens patient with us, you can order refills online through our website. Just ensure your prescription is current with a recent checkup.
How Do I Care for My Contact Lenses?
Proper contact lens care is crucial for maintaining eye health and lens performance. While specific care instructions vary depending on your lens type, general best practices include:
- Always wash your hands before handling lenses
- Use fresh contact lens solution—never reuse old solution or use water
- Replace your lens case every three months
- Follow the recommended replacement schedule for your specific lens type
- Never sleep in your lenses unless specifically prescribed for extended wear
- Store lenses properly when not in use
During your fitting appointment, we’ll provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific lens type and lifestyle.
Special Considerations for Contact Lens Wearers
Certain life circumstances may temporarily affect your contact lens wear. For example, pregnancy can cause vision changes and may make contact lenses feel uncomfortable due to dry eyes or corneal thickness changes. If you’re experiencing discomfort with your lenses, schedule a visit so we can determine whether an adjustment is needed.
Ready to Explore Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses can be an excellent vision correction option for many patients. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists at Hill Vision Services is here to discuss the possibilities with you. We proudly serve patients throughout the St. Louis area at our three locations in Creve Coeur, Lake St. Louis, and Glen Carbon.
When you purchase a one-year supply of soft contact lenses from our optical shop, you’ll receive a 20% discount on one pair of prescription sunglasses. We’re committed to providing personalized customer service and expert eye care at competitive prices.
Schedule your appointment today to discover whether contact lenses are right for you. Our team looks forward to helping you achieve comfortable, clear vision.
