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This is a SUPER common question I often get in the optical. It’s also a great question! Generally, the answer is a simple one, BOTH! Here’s why.

Glasses and Contact Lenses, although used for very similar purposes, can benefit the user in very different ways. For example, someone who wears a helmet during a sporting event. Glasses may not suit their needs very well during the event and may prove to be uncomfortable or not very functional during that time. Contact Lenses may be a great alternative. Generally, I recommend Contact Lenses AND Glasses to patients that are torn between which option to go with. But, it’s a great option for everyone that is eligible. (Consult your Eye Doctor to determine you’re eligibility for Contact Lenses)

If a patient is interested in Contact Lenses, I would always advise that they also get a pair of glasses with their current prescription, as well. If the patient already has a frame, I would recommend updating their lenses with their current prescription. Here are a few reasons why:

• If there is ever an instance where the patient cannot wear their Contact Lenses for a prolonged period of time, a pair of glasses with the most current prescription is the best next option. It’s always good to have a backup pair.
• It’s always a good idea to periodically give your eyes a rest from your Contact Lenses.
• Having a pair of updated Prescription Glasses is an opportunity to have a different variation in your everyday look! So, be sure to visit your local Licensed Optician to get the best in frames and lens options. Remember, “To look and see your best, a Licensed Optician is your vision expert.” –Professional Opticians of Florida (POF)

Now, obviously we cant ignore the fact that getting Contact Lenses AND Glasses can become a bit pricey, depending on where you go and what you get. But, there are options that would allow you to still take advantage of both Contacts & Glasses and not have to sell your kidneys and 3/4 of a leg. Consult your Eye Doctor to discuss what the best Contact Lens option would be to fit your eyes and your budget. Your Licensed Optician will do the same for your eyeglasses.

For more information about what options are available for you, visit your Local Licensed Optician and/or your Local Eye Doctor.

This is a question we get in the Optical very often. Many times, this question is followed by “I already know my prescription and the lenses I want. Can’t you just sell it to me?”. Generally, the answer is No. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Contact Lens Prescriptions are generally only valid for 1 year from the date prescribed. There are some exceptions to that law, but mainly 1 year is the expiry period.

2. When doctors are doing a Contact Lens exam and fitting, a lot of factors are taken into consideration when determining the correct Brand, Fit and Prescription Strength. For example, when the doctor does the Contact Lens Exam, they determine the overall health of your eyes and whether the environment is ideal for contact lenses. Along with the exam, the doctor will take measurements of your Cornea’s diameter and base curve, called your ‘K-Reading”. This will help in the selection of the best contact lens for fit and comfort.

• • “The contact lens fit is very important because this allows doctors to see how tight or loose the contact lens is on the cornea, or the front curve of the eye. If the contact lens is too tight, less oxygen is flowing into the cornea and the patient will be more prone to infections and corneal edema or swelling of the cornea. If the contact lens is too loose it may flip or rotate in the eye with eye rubbing and cause an abrasion. People may not realize that the fit of their lenses can change throughout their lives, and an annual check-up can determine if adjustments should be made.”  – Dr. Stephanie Cortes, OD

Continue reading “Why do I need a Doctor’s Prescription for Contact Lenses?”