WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A STANDARD AND PREMIUM CONTACT LENS FITTING?
More people are opting to wear contact lenses instead of glasses to correct their vision. One of the reasons for this choice is aesthetics. Similar to those who get glasses, people who wear contact lenses have to undergo a contact lens exam. During this exam, the doctor will check the patient’s overall eye health and take measurements to determine the proper contact lenses that are best for them.
At times, you may have to wear multifocal lenses if your condition requires progressive lenses. Then two types of contact lens fittings are standard contact lens fitting and premium contact lens fitting.
What Is The Difference?
Standard contact lens fitting includes single vision daily wear lenses with spherical, soft, and clear fittings. This type of fitting does not include overnight wear lenses. Premium contact lenses include gas permeable, post-surgical, and multifocal/bifocal lenses.
Premium contact lens fitting costs more compared to standard contact lens fitting. Both standard and premium lenses help clear your vision. However, your eye doctor may prescribe one or the other depending on your visual needs and budget.
What To Expect During Contact Lens Fitting
Whether you need a new prescription or want to wear them for the first time, it is vital to have a contact lens fitting. During the fitting, the eye doctor will conduct a comprehensive eye exam first. They will also conduct a series of tests to check more than just your vision. Afterward, you will have to answer a few questions about your lifestyle to help the eye doctor determine which type of lenses are best suited for your needs.
Choosing The Right Contacts
There are different types of contact lenses, including hard lenses, daily disposables, weekly and monthly lenses. Toric lenses are also available for people who suffer from astigmatism. After the initial eye exam, the eye doctor will measure your eyes to determine the diameter and the curve of the lenses you will need. Your iris and pupil will be measured as well.
The Tear Film Evaluation
The final step involves the tear film evaluation. One of the major issues that face people who wear contacts is dry eye syndrome. To ensure that your eyes have enough moisture to hold the contacts, the eye doctor will place a small strip of paper underneath your lower lid. This is done to test if your eyes can produce tears.
If your eyes are completely dry, your eye doctor may recommend that you refrain from wearing contacts. If they are not completely dry, you may have the option to wear lenses with moisture technology. The eye doctor will give you a pair of lenses and teach you how to put them on and remove them safely. Let the doctor know if the lenses are not comfortable. You will remain with the trial lenses before your follow-up visit.
Follow-Up Visit
In your next visit, your eye doctor will examine your eyes to ensure that your vision is in great condition. During the visit, be honest about how the lenses feel. The doctor will hand over your supply of lenses and let you know when you should come back for your next visit.
To learn more about standard and premium contact lens fittings or to book an appointment, call Longview Eye Associates at our office in Longview, Texas at (903) 417-0070.