What Should First-Time Contact Lens Wearers Expect?

Switching from glasses to contact lenses can open up a new level of convenience and freedom in your daily life. For first-time wearers, the experience can come with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Knowing what to expect during your contact lens exam and fitting can help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy the benefits of clear, comfortable vision without frames.

What to Expect During Your Contact Lens Exam

Before you can start wearing contact lenses, you’ll need a comprehensive eye exam and a contact lens evaluation. While a standard eye exam checks your overall eye health and vision prescription, a contact lens exam includes additional steps to ensure your lenses fit properly and safely.

During your appointment, your optometrist will:

• Measure your eyes: Specialized measurements of your cornea and pupil size help determine the right lens shape and size for you.

• Check for eye health conditions: Some conditions, such as dry eye or allergies, may influence which type of lens is best.

• Discuss your lifestyle : Whether you spend long hours on screens, play sports, or have seasonal allergies, your doctor will consider these factors when recommending lenses.

The Contact Lens Fitting Process

After your exam, the fitting process begins. This is the exciting stage where you’ll try contact lenses for the first time under your doctor’s guidance. The fitting ensures that your lenses are comfortable, safe, and provide clear vision. Your doctor will start by placing trial lenses in your eyes. This allows them to evaluate how the lenses feel and ensure they are the right size and shape for your eyes.

Next comes the vision and fit assessment. Your optometrist will check how the lenses sit on your eyes and confirm that they provide the sharp, clear vision you need for everyday activities. First-time wearers will also learn how to insert and remove their lenses safely, as well as how to clean and store them properly to protect their eye health.

Adjusting to Your New Lenses

Once your contact lenses are fitted, it’s important to give your eyes a short adjustment period. For first-time wearers, it’s completely normal to notice the lenses at first or experience mild awareness, but this sensation should gradually fade as your eyes adapt. Some people adjust within a few hours, while others may take a few days to feel completely comfortable.

During this period, your eyes are getting used to the shape and feel of the lenses, and you’re learning the daily routine of proper insertion, removal, and cleaning. It’s important to follow your optometrist’s instructions closely, including wearing your lenses only for the recommended amount of time each day. Gradually increasing your wear time, as directed, can help your eyes adapt more comfortably.

Your optometrist may schedule a follow-up visit to check your progress. This appointment ensures the lenses are sitting properly, your vision is sharp, and your eyes are staying healthy. If you experience persistent discomfort, redness, or irritation before your follow-up, remove your lenses and contact your eye doctor right away.

Tips for a Great First Experience

• Follow the cleaning and replacement schedule recommended by your optometrist.

• Avoid sleeping in lenses unless specifically approved.

• Carry backup glasses in case your eyes need a break.

Start Your Journey to Clear, Comfortable Vision

Your first experience with contact lenses is a big step toward greater visual freedom and flexibility. At Salt River Eye Care, our goal is to make the process comfortable, educational, and tailored to your lifestyle. With the right guidance and care, you’ll quickly feel confident and at ease with your new lenses.

Schedule a contact lens exam and fitting at Salt River Eye Care to find the perfect fit for your vision and lifestyle. Visit our office in Scottsdale, Arizona, or call (480) 278-7732 to book an appointment today.