What Tests Are Performed During a Contact Lens Exam?

If you are considering contact lenses for the first time or need an updated prescription, you might be wondering what happens during a contact lens exam. This specialized evaluation is designed to ensure your eyes are healthy and that contact lenses will provide clear vision and all-day comfort. At Turcotte Martin Eye, we take a detailed and personalized approach to each contact lens exam to ensure the best results for your vision and lifestyle.
 

What Is a Contact Lens Exam?

A contact lens exam goes beyond a standard vision test. It includes all the components of a routine eye exam but also incorporates additional tests that are specific to contact lens wear. Since contact lenses rest directly on the eyes, we need to evaluate whether your eyes can safely support contact lens use and determine the best type of lens for your needs.
 

Comprehensive Eye Health Evaluation

Before fitting you with contacts, we perform a thorough eye health evaluation. This includes checking your visual acuity, assessing your prescription, and screening for eye conditions such as dry eye, corneal irregularities, or signs of infection. Healthy eyes are essential for successful contact lens wear, so this step is crucial.
 

Corneal Measurements

Next, we take detailed measurements of your cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Using instruments like a keratometer or corneal topographer, we measure the curvature and shape of your cornea. These measurements help determine the ideal contact lens size and fit to prevent discomfort and ensure stable vision.
 

Tear Film Analysis

Contact lenses need a healthy tear film to stay comfortable throughout the day. We assess the quantity and quality of your tears to check for dry eye issues. If your eyes don’t produce enough moisture or the tear composition is poor, it can impact your ability to wear lenses comfortably. In some cases, we may recommend treating dry eye before starting contact lens wear.
 

Contact Lens Fitting and Trial Lenses

Once your prescription and eye health have been evaluated, we move on to the contact lens fitting. We select trial lenses based on your eye shape, prescription, and lifestyle needs. You will try the lenses in-office, and we will assess how they fit, how your eyes respond, and how well you see with them. This is also a good time to test different lens types if you are new to contacts or looking to switch to a more comfortable or specialized lens.
 

Get Started at Turcotte Martin Eye

A contact lens exam is a key part of safe and effective contact lens wear. At Turcotte Martin Eye, we use advanced technology and expert care to make sure your lenses fit properly, feel comfortable, and give you the best vision possible. Whether you are trying contacts for the first time or need an updated prescription, our team is here to help.

Schedule your contact lens exam and fitting at Turcotte Martin Eye and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.  Please call (617) 361-0618 for our office in Hyde Park, or call (617) 609-0095 for our office in Boston, Massachusetts.