If you're a contact lens wearer, regular eye exams are essential to maintaining your eye health and ensuring that your lenses continue to provide optimal vision correction. But how often should you have a contact lens exam? At Eyes on Preston Park, we recommend that our patients schedule their contact lens exams annually, though some situations may require more frequent visits. Here's what you need to know about the timing and importance of these exams.

Why Are Contact Lens Exams Important?

Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, and their long-term use can affect your eye health. Contact lens exams are more comprehensive than a standard eye exam, focusing specifically on the health of your corneas, tear production, and the fit of your lenses. During these exams, your eye doctor can:
 

• Ensure your prescription is up to date.
   

• Check for signs of eye conditions like dry eye, corneal infections, or other issues related to wearing contact lenses.
   

• Evaluate how well your lenses fit and if they need adjustment.
   

• Discuss any discomfort, irritation, or other concerns you may have.
   

Annual exams allow your optometrist to monitor changes in your eye health and adjust your lenses as needed to maintain comfort and clarity.
 

When Should You Schedule More Frequent Exams?

While an annual contact lens exam is the standard recommendation, there are cases where more frequent exams might be necessary. You should consider seeing your optometrist sooner if you:
 

• Experience discomfort, redness, or eye irritation.
   

• Notice a change in your vision or how your lenses fit.
   

• Have an eye infection or injury.
   

• Are trying new types of contact lenses, such as multifocal or specialty lenses.
   

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Exam

A contact lens exam at Eyes on Preston Park involves several important steps:
 

• Prescription Check: Your optometrist will ensure your current lenses are still correcting your vision properly by conducting a refraction test.
   

• Fit Evaluation: Proper fit is crucial to comfort and preventing eye issues. Your optometrist will assess the fit of your lenses on your eyes and make adjustments if needed.
   

• Tear Film Assessment: This test evaluates your eyes' moisture levels to ensure your eyes stay hydrated while wearing contact lenses, which can help prevent dry eye symptoms.
   

• Eye Health Check: The overall health of your eyes, particularly your corneas, is examined to detect any potential problems early on.
   

The Importance of Yearly Exams for Long-Term Eye Health

Consistent, yearly contact lens exams help safeguard your vision and prevent potential complications. Even if your lenses feel comfortable and your vision seems clear, underlying issues can develop without noticeable symptoms. Regular exams allow your optometrist to catch and treat any problems before they become serious.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam at Eyes on Preston Park

If it's been over a year since your last contact lens exam, or if you’re experiencing any issues with your lenses, it's time to schedule an appointment. At Eyes on Preston Park, our goal is to ensure your eyes remain healthy and your contact lenses continue to provide the best possible vision correction. 
 

Contact Eyes on Preston Park to book your next contact lens exam. Visit our office in Plano, Texas, or call (972) 519- 0006 to book an appointment today.