Switching from Glasses to Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are another corrective option for people with refractive errors. These are thin lenses you put directly on your eye’s surface. Unlike glasses, this eyewear offers convenience and flexibility.

If you plan to switch from glasses to contact lenses, there are a few things to know.
 

 

Get a Contact Lens Prescription from an Ophthalmologist

Contact lenses come in different types and diameters. It is not one-size-fits-all. Therefore, you will need a valid prescription from an ophthalmologist. The prescription will ensure the eyewear fits and meets your vision needs. You also need it for legal purposes.

You can get a prescription after a contact lens fitting. You can find fitting offers online, but it is best to go to an eye doctor. A professional can detect any abnormalities or issues that are otherwise overlooked in a home test.

Take note that the prescription for contact lenses is different from that for glasses. So even if you already have a prescription for glasses, you still need to visit your eye doctor to get one for contacts.
 

Buy from Reliable Sources

Even if you are just buying cosmetic contact lenses, be cautious when choosing a seller or supplier. You can typically buy it from your eye care professional.
But if you wish to look for another provider, it is best to go with someone you are familiar with or have proven dependable with. A reliable seller will ask for your prescription when you buy contact lenses.
 

Learn the Proper Way of Wearing and Removing Contacts

Contacts are not as easy to put on as glasses. And there is a proper way to put it on to avoid infection. You may find putting the lenses on your eyes hard initially, but that is normal. You’ll get the hang of it over time.

Take note of how long you can wear the contacts. Some contact lenses must be removed after a day, while others can be worn for several days. Wearing the contacts more than necessary could result in serious infections that may even lead to vision loss.
 

Practice Good Hygiene

Contact lenses need proper maintenance to remain effective and safe to use. You have to clean the device as directed by your ophthalmologist. Contact lens care systems will be recommended. Some of its types include hydrogen peroxide care solutions or multipurpose care solutions.

If the solution runs out, never top it off because it increases the risk of infection. Never use tap, distilled, bottled, ocean, or lake water. Additionally, you must wash and dry your hands whenever you handle your contacts.
 

Learn About the Cons

Like glasses, contact lenses also come with disadvantages. For example, wearing them carelessly can put you at risk of more serious eye complications. The risk increases if the lens does not fit properly or is not prescribed.

Even costume lenses have cons. A study found that over-the-counter tinted contact lenses use chemicals that can be toxic to human eyes.

Contact lenses can be an excellent option whether you are looking to enhance your appearance, improve your vision for sports and other activities, or are tired of the hassle of glasses. But before making the switch, it’s important to understand the benefits and risks of contact lenses and how to properly care for and wear them to ensure optimal comfort and safety.

For more tips on when to switch to contact lenses, visit Fier Eye Care & Surgery Center offices in Port Saint Lucie or Stuart, Florida. Or call 772-400-2400 or 772-286-0007 to schedule an appointment.