As the world becomes increasingly digitalized, more and more people are turning to contact lenses as a convenient and comfortable vision correction solution. Whether you're an experienced contact lens wearer or considering making the switch from glasses, understanding the process of a contact lens exam is crucial to ensure you receive the best possible vision and eye health care.
The primary purpose of a contact lens exam is to determine the most suitable contact lenses for your eyes. During the exam, Dr. Kawakami will evaluate the health of your eyes, measure the curvature of your corneas, and assess your vision to ensure that the contact lenses you choose provide you with optimal visual acuity and comfort.
Beyond determining the right contact lenses, a comprehensive contact lens exam also serves to identify any underlying eye health issues that may affect your ability to wear contacts safely and comfortably. Dr. Kawakami will check for conditions such as dry eye, corneal irregularities, or other ocular conditions that could impact your contact lens wear.
A typical contact lens exam involves several steps, each designed to gather the necessary information to provide you with the best possible vision correction solution. Here's what you can expect during the exam:
● Medical History Review: We will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any previous eye conditions, allergies, or medications that may affect your contact lens wear.
● Visual Acuity Test: Your visual acuity will be tested using an eye chart to determine your current level of vision and whether contact lenses can provide you with the necessary improvement.
● Corneal Curvature Measurement: Dr. Kawakami will use a specialized instrument called a keratometer to measure the curvature of your corneas, which is essential for determining the appropriate contact lens fit.
● Slit Lamp Examination: A slit lamp examination allows us to closely examine the health and structure of your eyes, including the cornea, conjunctiva, and eyelids, to ensure they are suitable for contact lens wear.
● Contact Lens Fitting: Based on the information gathered during the exam, Dr. Kawakami will recommend and fit you with the most suitable contact lenses. He may have you try on different lens types or powers to find the perfect fit.
● Lens Evaluation: After the initial fitting, he will assess the fit and comfort of the contact lenses, making any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal vision and eye health.
● Follow-up Appointment: Depending on the type of contact lenses prescribed, you may be scheduled for a follow-up appointment to ensure the lenses are still fitting properly and your eyes are responding well to the new lenses.
The world of contact lenses has evolved significantly, offering a wide range of options to cater to various vision needs and lifestyle preferences.We will discuss the different types of contact lenses available and help you determine the best fit for your eyes and lifestyle. Some of the most common types of contact lenses include:
● Soft Contact Lenses: These are the most popular type of contact lenses, known for their comfort and ease of use. They are available in a variety of materials, including silicone hydrogel, which offers enhanced oxygen permeability for improved eye health.
● Multifocal Contact Lenses: These lenses are designed to address presbyopia, a common age-related vision condition that makes it difficult to focus on near objects. Multifocal lenses allow you to see clearly at various distances without the need for reading glasses.
● Toric Contact Lenses: Toric lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism, a common refractive error that causes blurred or distorted vision. These lenses have a unique shape that helps to counteract the irregular curvature of the cornea.
At iCare Optometry, Dr. Kawakami is dedicated to providing our patients with personalized attention and high-quality eye care. During a contact lens exam, he approaches each patient with a deep sense of compassion and meticulous attention to detail. He understands that every patient has unique needs and concerns, and takes the time to listen carefully, ensuring that he addresses all their questions throughout the process. His thorough examination includes precise measurements and careful consideration of the best lens options to suit our patients’ lifestyles and vision requirements. This commitment to detail and empathetic care allows him to provide personalized solutions that enhance both vision and comfort, ensuring a positive and reassuring experience for every patient.
Visit iCare Optometry today to schedule your comprehensive contact lens exam and experience the difference our exceptional care can make.