Contact Lens Exam

Perfecting your contact lens experience

Our optometrists specialize in hard-to-fit contact lenses that are used to improve the sight of those patients that have eye conditions including keratoconus, high astigmatism, post-surgical corneas and severe dry eye. We have numerous options available for all types of prescriptions, including scleral contact lenses. A contact lens exam is like a regular eye exam, but it also includes additional tests to assess your eyes for contact lens wear and to determine the best type of contact lenses for your eyes.

What to expect at a contact lens exam

History and Evaluation 
Your eye doctor will ask you about your eye health history and any current medical conditions you have. They will also perform a general eye exam to check your vision, eye pressure, and tear production.

Contact Lens Fitting
Your eye doctor will use a variety of instruments to measure your eyes and determine the best type of contact lenses for you. This may include using a keratometer to measure the curve of your cornea, a biomicroscope to examine your eyes under magnification, and a fluorescein tear test to check your tear production.

Trial Period 
Once your eye doctor has determined the best type of contact lenses for you, they will give you some trials to wear for several days. This will help you see how the lenses feel and if they are comfortable for you to wear.

Follow-Up Appointment 
You will return to your eye doctor for a follow-up appointment after you have worn your trial lenses for several days. Your eye doctor will check for any signs of irritation or discomfort, and they will make any necessary adjustments to your contact lens prescription. If the trial pair doesn’t meet our high standards, we will try a different style, brand, or power until we find the ones that are best for you.

Contact lens fitting at Style Optique is a specialized eye care service designed to deliver sharp vision, lasting comfort, and long-term eye health for patients in Barrington, IL. Unlike standard vision exams, contact lens fittings require advanced measurements, clinical expertise, and customized lens selection to ensure each patient receives lenses that match their unique eye anatomy and lifestyle. Our team of multiple providers takes a personalized approach, whether you are new to contact lenses or struggling with discomfort or poor vision from your current lenses. With today’s wide range of lens technologies, proper fitting is essential to protect eye health and optimize visual performance.

Common Signs You May Need a Contact Lens Fitting

Many patients assume discomfort or blurry vision is normal with contacts, but these symptoms often indicate an improper fit or outdated prescription.

  • Blurry or fluctuating vision while wearing contacts
  • Eye dryness, redness, or irritation
  • Lenses that move excessively or feel unstable
  • Frequent eye fatigue or headaches
  • Difficulty wearing contacts for a full day
  • Discomfort with standard soft contact lenses

Why Proper Contact Lens Fitting Matters for Eye Health

A professional contact lens fitting is essential because contact lenses sit directly on the surface of the eye and must align precisely with the cornea. Ill-fitting lenses can reduce oxygen flow, disrupt tear film stability, and increase the risk of infection or corneal damage. A customized fitting ensures the lenses match your eye’s curvature, diameter, and moisture needs. This is especially important for patients with conditions such as astigmatism, dry eye, keratoconus, or post-surgical corneas. Proper fitting also allows eye doctors to monitor eye health changes over time and adjust lens materials or designs as needed. Without expert guidance, patients may unknowingly wear lenses that compromise comfort and long-term vision health. At Style Optique, our Barrington optometrists prioritize safety, clarity, and comfort with every fitting.

Our Customized Contact Lens Fitting Process

Contact lens fitting at Style Optique is a detailed and patient-focused process designed to ensure optimal results.

  • Comprehensive Eye Evaluation: Your optometrist reviews your eye health history, checks your vision, intraocular pressure, and tear production, and evaluates your overall eye health before fitting lenses.
  • Advanced Eye Measurements: Precise corneal measurements are taken using specialized instruments to determine the ideal lens shape, size, and material for your eyes.
  • Lens Selection and Trial Lenses: Based on your eye anatomy and visual needs, trial lenses are selected, including options such as soft, toric, multifocal, and specialty lenses, such as scleral contacts.
  • Wear Assessment and Comfort Testing: You will wear trial lenses to evaluate comfort, stability, and clarity throughout daily activities.
  • Follow-Up and Adjustments: A follow-up appointment ensures the lenses are performing correctly and that adjustments are made until the optimal fit is achieved.

Preventing Discomfort and Vision Problems with Proper Lens Care

Preventive care plays a major role in maintaining comfort and eye health for contact lens wearers. Routine fittings help detect subtle changes in the cornea or tear film before symptoms worsen. Regular follow-up visits allow your optometrist to update prescriptions and recommend newer lens materials that improve oxygen flow and hydration. Proper lens hygiene, replacement schedules, and cleaning solutions are reinforced during fittings to reduce the risk of infection. Patients with dry eye benefit from lens designs that retain moisture and minimize irritation. Preventive contact lens care also supports long-term vision stability and helps patients avoid complications that could limit future contact lens use.

What Patients Can Expect Long-Term

Patients who receive a professional contact lens fitting often experience improved clarity, comfort, and confidence in their vision. A properly fitted lens feels natural and remains stable throughout the day, even during extended wear. Many patients find they can wear contacts longer without dryness or fatigue. Specialty lenses open new possibilities for individuals who were previously told they were not good candidates for contacts. Ongoing care ensures lenses continue to meet visual demands as eyes change with age. With expert fitting and follow-up care, contact lenses can be a reliable, healthy option for vision correction for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Contact Lens Fitting

How is a contact lens exam different from a regular eye exam?

A contact lens exam includes additional measurements and evaluations to ensure lenses fit safely and comfortably. It also involves trial lenses and follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit.

Can I get contact lenses if I have astigmatism or dry eye?

Yes, specialty lenses such as toric or scleral contacts are designed for these conditions. A proper fitting ensures the lenses address both vision and comfort needs.

How long does a contact lens fitting take?

The initial appointment typically takes longer than a standard eye exam due to additional testing. Follow-up visits ensure the lenses meet performance and comfort standards.

How often do contact lenses need to be refitted?

Most patients require annual fittings, though some may need more frequent evaluations if eye conditions change. Regular fittings help maintain eye health and visual clarity.

Do I need a fitting if I already wear contact lenses?

Yes, even experienced wearers benefit from regular fittings. Eye shape and tear production can change over time, affecting lens performance.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Fitting at Style Optique

Clear vision and comfortable contact lenses start with expert care at Style Optique in Barrington, IL. Our team of experienced optometrists provides advanced contact lens fitting services tailored to your unique eye health and lifestyle needs. Whether you are new to contacts or seeking better comfort and clarity, our personalized approach ensures the best possible results.

Take the next step toward healthier vision and all-day comfort by scheduling your contact lens fitting with Style Optique today. Our Barrington eye care team is ready to help you experience the difference precision fitting can make.

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