Most people can. We will assess your suitability with some simple tests. Contact lenses can be used to correct all types of vision including astigmatism, long and short sight, and the need for reading glasses.
CONTACT LENS FAQ
VISIONARY EYECARE SINCE 1868
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
How long will it take to get used to wearing contact lenses?
Contact lenses are so comfortable most people can wear them with ease straight away. The main thing to get used to is putting them in and taking them out – after a little practice this becomes routine and easy to do.
Will wearing contact lenses make my eyesight worse?
No. It is a common myth that wearing glasses or contact lenses makes your eyes ‘lazy’. This is not the case.
Are contact lenses difficult to look after?
Developments in contact lens care products make it easy to keep your contact lenses clean and safe from harmful bacteria. A few simple steps should result in trouble-free use:
- Clean your contact lenses daily to remove dust, pollution and make-up that may accumulate during daily wear
- Disinfect your contact lenses daily to ensure they are free from any micro-organisms still on the contact lens after cleaning
Daily disposable contact lenses are for single use only and therefore do not require cleaning solutions. After wear, these contact lenses are just simply discarded!
Is it painful to wear contact lenses?
No. Disposable contact lenses are extremely soft. Most wearers find them to be very comfortable. If you are concerned about discomfort, please contact the practice for assistance. [Link to contacts page]
Will I still need glasses?
Yes. It is not advisable to rely totally on contact lenses. There are occasions when glasses may be necessary e.g. first thing in the morning or at the end of the day. Also, in the rare case of an eye infection, glasses are desirable.
Can I sleep in contact lenses?
Some contact lenses available can be worn continuously for up to 30 nights. We will be happy to advise you of your suitability for this type of product. If you accidentally sleep in contact lenses that are not designed for extended use your eyes may be quite irritable. If this happens, seek further advice from the practice.
Can contact lenses go to the back of my eye and get stuck?
No. There is a protective membrane that covers the front of your eyes and this then runs over the underside of your eyelids and stops the contact lens from going behind the eye.
Is there an age limit to be able to wear contact lenses?
No. Our youngest patient to wear contact lenses is three years old, and the oldest is over 90. For children we generally only prescribe lenses if we are confident they understand how to care for their lenses themselves.
What if I lose a contact lens?
Any lost or damaged disposable contact lenses are replaced without charge.
Do I have to wait for the contact lenses to be made especially for me?
All rigid gas permeable lenses are custom made and usually take a few days to manufacture. The majority of soft contact lenses are available for immediate trial. Complex lenses such as OrthoK and scleral contact lenses can take a little longer to arrive.
Do I have to come into the practice to collect my contact lenses (and solutions)?
For most contact lenses, once your prescription has been issued, home delivery can be arranged.
”The Tompkins Knight & Son Optometrists practice is full of old school charm. Customer service is second to none. Oh, and they have a great coffee machine.
Mr. BloggsPatient Since 1986
