EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT  CONTACT LENSES

Definition: a thin lens designed to fit over the cornea and is usually worn to correct defects in vision.

Contacts offer a good alternative to eyeglasses. In the US more than over 24 million people wear contact lenses.

Contacts can be used to correct vision in the following cases:
Myopia (see better close up than far away)
Hyperopia (see better far away than close up)
Astigmatism (distorted vision)
Presbyopia (need for bifocals)

The contact lens exam is more complex than a regular eye exam and carries a professional non-refundable fee. This fee covers the initial contact lens exam, instruction on insertion and removal, general care and three months of follow-up visits. The cost of the exam is in addition to the standard comprehensive ophthalmic visit.

Our goal is to provide safe, comfortable contact lenses which suit the needs of the individual. Because it is not always possible to determine in advance who will or will not be successful in contact lenses, there is no guarantee these objectives will be achieved. The patient's final contact lens prescription is not determined until the lenses are judged correct in prescription power and lens fit. By fitting the contact lens, the doctor is both medicinal and legally responsible in ensuring the proper contact lens education, lens fit and lens follow-up visits.

Types of contact lenses

PMMA- are rigid or “hard” lenses. They are the least comfortable type of lenses. Many people who have worn contacts since the early 1960's still prefer them.

GAS PERMEABLE LENSES- known as RGP's”. Made of plastics combined with other materials that allow oxygen to pass directly through the lens.

SOFT CONTACT LENSES- are made of plastic materials that include water. The water makes them soft and easy to wear. 75% of contact lens patients in the US use soft lenses.

INFORMATION FOR CONTACT LENS WEARERS

1. wash and rinse hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses
2. never insert lenses if eyes are red and/or irritated. If irritation occurs while wearing lenses, remove them immediately and call Sarasota Ophthalmology @ 941-955-6363.
3. never store or rinse lenses in tap water
4. never use saliva or put lenses in your mouth to wet them
5. do not wear contacts while swimming, in the shower or in a jacuzzi
6. do no wear a contact that is chipped or torn
7. do not wear your contacts if you are ill. Certain medications can make your eyes dry
8. obtain a backup pair of glasses to when when contact lens wear is not possible
9. do not wear lenses monger than prescribed.
10. DO NO SLEEP IN LENSES
11. Store lenses in the recommended solutions when not wearing. Discard any soft lenses that have become dehydrated. Do not attempt to rehydrate them
12. never reuse cleaning or disinfection solutions. Solutions should be discarded after every use
13. do not skip the multipurpose cleaner for your contact lenses as it plays a role in keeping your eyes healthy and protection you from infection
14. clean contacts as directed by rubbing them in your palm before storage at night, even if using a “no rub” solution
15. clean your storage case daily. Replace your case if it is soiled
16. keep follow up appointments with your doctor and replace contact lenses as recommended to prevent infection or other ocular problems
17. contact lens wearers should have annual eye exams

Call our office today at 941-955-6363 to make your appointment for a contact lens exam and fitting.