What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting

If you’re thinking about switching from glasses to contact lenses, you may be wondering what the process involves. A contact lens exam and fitting is more detailed than a routine eye exam because the lenses sit directly on your eyes. At iCare Vision Center, we take a personalized approach to ensure your contact lenses provide clear vision, lasting comfort, and support for your overall eye health.

A Comprehensive Eye Health Evaluation

Before fitting you with contact lenses, your eye doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam. This step is essential to evaluate your overall eye health and determine whether contact lenses are a good option for you.

During this portion of the visit, your doctor will:

• Check your visual acuity (how clearly you see at various distances)
• Assess your current prescription
• Examine the health of your cornea, retina, and other eye structures
• Screen for conditions such as dry eye, astigmatism, or allergies

Even if you’ve had glasses for years, your eyes can change over time. An updated prescription ensures your contact lenses provide crisp, comfortable vision.

Corneal Measurements and Tear Film Evaluation

Unlike glasses, contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye. That’s why precise measurements are critical. Your eye doctor will measure the curvature and size of your cornea using specialized instruments. These measurements help determine the correct lens base curve and diameter for a proper fit.

They will also evaluate your tear film to ensure your eyes produce enough moisture to comfortably support contact lens wear. If you experience dryness, your doctor may recommend specific lens materials or treatments to improve comfort.

Choosing the Right Type of Contact Lenses

There are many types of contact lenses available, and your doctor will help you choose the best option based on your needs, lifestyle, and eye health.

Options may include:

• Daily disposable lenses
• Biweekly or monthly replacement lenses
• Toric lenses for astigmatism
• Multifocal lenses for presbyopia
• Specialty lenses for certain corneal conditions

If you spend long hours on digital devices, play sports, or have sensitive eyes, these factors will also guide your lens selection.

The Trial Lens Fitting

Once your doctor selects a lens type, you’ll be given trial lenses to try on in the office. After the lenses are inserted, your doctor will evaluate:

• Lens positioning and movement on your eye
• Overall comfort
• Clarity and stability of your vision

You’ll have time to adjust to the lenses before the fit is assessed. A properly fitted contact lens should feel comfortable and provide clear vision without excessive movement.

Insertion, Removal, and Care Training

If you’re new to contact lenses, don’t worry - you won’t leave without knowing how to use them confidently.

A team member will teach you how to:

• Safely insert and remove your lenses
• Clean and store them properly (if using reusable lenses)
• Follow a safe wearing schedule
• Recognize signs of irritation or infection

This training is an essential part of the process and ensures your long-term eye health.

Find Your Perfect Contact Lens Fit at iCare Vision Center

A contact lens exam and fitting is a thorough, personalized process designed to give you clear vision and comfortable wear. From precise measurements to trial fittings and hands-on training, every step is focused on ensuring your lenses fit your eyes and your lifestyle perfectly.

Ready to make the switch to contact lenses or update your current prescription? Contact iCare Vision Center to schedule your contact lens exam and fitting today. Visit our office in Seattle, Washington, or call (206) 502-2800 to book an appointment.