The Basics of Contact Lenses

Children as young as 8 years old and most adults can wear contact lenses. Glasses have not been shown to be better or worse than contacts for your eyes.  Contact lenses do not replace glasses but are a great addition as another form of vision correction.  Contacts are better for certain activities, such as playing sports, exercising, swimming, and many other activities.

Contact Lens Evaluations In North Miami Beach, FL

You should always have a proper contact lens evaluation. Our eye doctor will make sure your eyes are healthy enough for contacts and you understand how to use your contacts properly. A contact lens evaluation is typically a separate service from your basic eye exam. If your eye exam has been more than 6 months ago, it’s generally recommended you have it again if you want to be evaluated for contact lenses.  This will ensure the prescription is up to date when you are evaluated for your contact lenses.

There are now many options for people with problematic eyes, so if you had been told that you could not wear contact lenses due to an oddly shaped eye, or some other problem, you may now be in luck. Contact lenses have advanced a long way and can correct for large amounts of astigmatism.

Contact Lenses Are Great For Sports

Wearing contacts are generally better for sports because they do not interfere with your peripheral vision, they don’t fog up, and you are free to choose from a wide variety of performance sunglasses. You may swim in your contacts if you are wearing goggles.  Wearing single-use disposable contact lenses is the best way to wear contacts while swimming.

Do Not Sleep With Contact Lenses

There are contact lenses that are FDA approved to be slept for up to 30 days but it is generally not a good idea for patients to sleep with their contact lenses overnight on a regular basis.  Wearing and sleeping with your contact lenses without removing them for days will greatly increase your risk of eye infections that may lead to legal blindness.

If you are worried about putting a finger in your eye or are nervous about putting in your contact lenses, our staff will practice with you until you feel confident. It's always a challenge for new contact lens wearer but most people overcome this difficulty very quickly.  One trick is to put your finger very close to your eyes and try to touch your eyebrows without flinching.  This may reduce your anxiety about touching your eyes.  Remember, practice makes perfect!