CONTACT LENSES
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CONTACT LENS ASSESSMENT
Once we have decided what type of lens suits your prescription and your needs, the next stage is to undertake a trial period with the chosen contact lenses. This will give you an idea of what it is like to have contact lenses in your eyes. Lenses will be chosen that are as close as possible to the prescription and size needed. Once inserted it is usual for the lenses to be left for a short time in order to assess the fit and vision. In some cases we may ask you to take a short walk whilst wearing the lenses to see how you feel.
CHOOSING CONTACT LENSES
To start, we will ask you some simple questions which will help you decide on the best type of lenses to try. We pride ourselves on taking the time and trouble to tell you about all the possible options and we will always try to find the most suitable lenses for you. Questions we will need to consider are:
- Why do you want to wear contact lenses?
- Is it for special sports pursuits, hobbies or simply as an alternative to spectacles?
- How often do you want to wear them? For occasional, social use - or all of the time?
- Have you ever had any problems with your eyes?
- What is your general state of health?
- Are you taking any medication?
TYPES OF CONTACT LENSES
There are a number of different types of contact lenses currently available, each with their own unique features. We’ve set out below a brief description of the different kinds, so you're equipped with some basic background information. When you come for your appointment we'll discuss and assess your needs, and together select the most suitable type.
ORTHO K
This is a revolutionary new vision correction therapy. The procedure uses specially designed contact lenses that gently correct vision overnight, eliminating the need for contact lenses or glasses during the day.
EXTENDED WEAR CONTACT LENSES
The latest advances in contact lens technology have led to the development of new types of disposable soft contact lens that can be worn overnight, albeit with increased risk which needs to be managed carefully.
TORIC CONTACT LENSES
Toric lenses are specially designed lenses to correct astigmatism. In years gone by they were difficult to measure, design and fit but this is no longer the case and we can opt for RGP, soft or disposable soft toric lenses to achieve exceptional vision.
MULTIFOCAL CONTACT LENSES
Contrary to popular myth, and many optometrist perceptions, multifocal lenses are highly successful suiting new wearers, those who already wear contact lenses and even those who have no need for any other optical correction.
CONTACT LENSES FOR CHILDREN
Many optometrists and opticians simply will not fit children with lenses. Our experience is that children manage lenses very well, with some gaining immensely in confidence and outlook.
HARD CONTACT LENSES
These are the original contact lenses, made from a rigid perspex material. Whilst being very durable, these contact lenses do not allow essential oxygen to pass through to the surface of the eye. Hard contact lenses have now been largely replaced by "gas permeable" lenses.
RIGID GAS PERMEABLE (RGP) LENSES
These lenses are made from semi-rigid materials, which allow more oxygen to pass through to the surface of the eye, making them much healthier to wear than hard contact lenses. RGPs only cover part of the cornea.
SOFT CONTACT LENSES
Soft contact lenses are made from pliable gel-like materials, which commonly contain between 38% and 75% water, allowing oxygen to pass more freely to the eye.
DISPOSABLE CONTACT LENSES
Traditionally, soft lenses have been replaced on an annual basis. Modern consensus is that this is unhealthy and not cost effective. Increasingly sophisticated material technology has led to the development of high quality soft contact lenses
YOUR CONTACT LENS ASSESSMENT
With all this information to hand we will then examine your eyes to check their health and suitability for contact lenses. We take multiple measurements, including:
- Corneal mapping - to make sure the lens lines up to the eye
- Tear assessment - to make sure the eyes are well lubricated
- Anterior eye health assessment
- Eyelid evaluation
- Corneal opening and diameter measuring