Contact Lens Evaluations and Fittings
Thinking about trying contact lenses for the first time? At Real Eyes Optometry, we provide contact lens evaluations to help determine the right fit, comfort, and clarity for your eyes. Once your contact lens prescription is finalized, your optometrist can recommend different types of contact lenses that suit your lifestyle, whether you prefer daily disposables, monthly lenses, or specialty designs for dry eyes, astigmatism, or orthokeratology lenses.
What Happens During a Contact Lens Evaluation?
A contact lens evaluation is more than a simple eye exam. Your optometrist measures your cornea, checks tear film quality, and tests how lenses fit your eye’s curvature. These steps ensure comfort, clear vision, and long-term eye health.
For those new to contact lenses, we will provide a complimentary contact lens starter kit and teach you how to insert and remove them safely with proper contact lens hygiene techniques. After your contact lens evaluation, you can order lenses and contact solutions directly from us with your contact lens prescription.
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Disposables | Single-use lenses for convenience and hygiene | Beginners, travelers |
| Monthly Lenses | Cost-effective and eco-friendly | Regular wearers |
| Toric Lenses | Designed for astigmatism correction | Astigmatism |
| Multifocal Lenses | Provide clear vision for both near and far distances | Presbyopia, age 40+ |
| Scleral Lenses | Larger lenses that vault over the cornea and hold moisture | Keratoconus, severe dry eyes |
| Dry Eye Lenses | Specialty lenses made with high moisture content or advanced surface coatings to reduce dryness | People with mild to moderate dry eyes |
| Ortho-K Lenses | Custom rigid lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea and correct vision temporarily | Myopia control, people who prefer lens-free daytime vision |
Is it time for a fresh perspective with new contact lenses
Get the right fit for your eyes before ordering your lenses. When you book a Comprehensive Eye Exam with a contact lens fitting, you’ll receive 10% off your contact lens order.
Already have your contact lens prescription? Reorder from your trusted eye care team. Once submitted, our team will reach out within 24 hours to confirm your prescription, quote, and process your payment.
Order online, then pick up in-office for free, or choose direct shipping starting at $10
How to Put in Contact Lenses
So you’ve ordered your lenses after visiting Real Eyes Optometry for your contact lens evaluation, now what? Let us guide you through common mistakes when putting in your contact lenses for the first time.
Putting on contact lenses for the first time can seem daunting, but it becomes a straightforward process with practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put on contact lenses safely and comfortably:
- First, wash your hands: Start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring any debris or bacteria to the lenses.
- Next, prepare the lenses by checking the contact lens package to ensure they are not expired. Remove one lens from its case and rinse it with the recommended contact lens solution. Place the lens on your palm, making sure it’s bowl-shaped and not inside-out. If it’s inside-out, the edges will flare horizontally slightly.
- Hold Your Eye Open: Using your non-dominant hand, hold open your upper eyelid gently. Use your middle finger to hold your lower eyelid down.
4. Position the Lens: With your dominant hand, use your index finger to place the lens on the surface of your eye. You can either look directly at the lens or focus on a point in the distance to avoid blinking.
5. Blink and Adjust: Once the lens is on your eye, release your eyelids slowly and blink a few times to allow the lens to settle into place. It may take a moment for the lens to center properly. Repeat for the other eye and follow the same steps to put the contact lens on the other eye.
6. Check Comfort and Vision: After both lenses are in, close your eyes briefly and blink a few times to ensure they feel comfortable. Check your vision to see if it’s clear and without blur. If you experience any discomfort or vision issues, remove the lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional.
Real Eyes Optometry
Real Eyes Optometry is centrally located in Metrotown Mall. Our convenient location includes free, accessible parking and the ability for parents to complete errands without driving all over the city.
Our optometrists are here to make your contact lens experience easy, comfortable, and clear. Whether you’re new to contacts or just due for an update, we’ll help you find the right fit for your eyes and lifestyle.
Contact Lens Care & Follow-Up Tips
1. Keep your appointments.
Always attend your scheduled follow-up visits with your optometrist. These checkups help ensure your lenses fit well and your eyes stay healthy.
2. Wear lenses before your checkup.
On the day of your follow-up, wear your contacts for at least 4 hours—unless they feel uncomfortable. This helps your optometrist assess the fit accurately.
3. Let your eyes breathe.
Remove your contact lenses at least one hour before bedtime to allow oxygen to reach your corneas. Give your eyes a break from contacts one full day each week for proper oxygen nourishment.
4. Keep everything clean.
Always wash and dry your hands before handling your contact lenses or touching your eyes.
5. Don’t ignore discomfort. If your eyes feel irritated, painful, or blurry, remove your lenses and contact your optometrist right away.
5 Things You Should Never Do with Contact Lenses
1. Keep wearing them if your eyes feel irritated.
If your eyes become red or painful, or your vision blurs while wearing contacts, remove them immediately. Clean the lenses thoroughly and let your eyes rest. If the problem continues, contact our office.
2. Ignore your wearing schedule.
Even if your lenses feel comfortable, do not wear them longer than your optometrist recommends.
3. Wear lenses for more than 12 hours a day.
Unless specifically advised, remove your contacts after 12 hours to avoid dryness and irritation.
4. Use saliva or tap water on your lenses.
Never rinse or store contacts with tap water or saliva. Both can carry bacteria that may cause serious eye infections within hours.
5. Sleep in your contacts.
Sleeping in contact lenses can limit oxygen to your eyes and increase the risk of infection.
Important Contact Lens Care Tips
- Always use fresh contact lens solution each time you store your lenses.
- Never use tap water or saliva to rinse or clean lenses.
- Stick to the recommended wear time to prevent eye strain and dryness.
- Ask your eye care professional for help if you’re unsure or uncomfortable putting lenses in or taking them out.
Contact Lens Evaluations FAQ
What is the difference between contact lens evaluations and a regular eye exam?
A contact lens exam includes additional measurements to find your correct contact lens prescription and ensure proper fit.
How often should I get a contact lens evaluation?
Once a year, or sooner if your vision changes or you experience dryness or irritation.
What are the most common types of contact lenses?
Daily disposables, monthly lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, and multifocal lenses for reading and distance.
Can I reuse my old prescription for contacts?
Contact lens prescriptions are different from glasses prescriptions and expire after one year. Always book contact lens evaluations before your order for the most accuate fit.