Transitioning from Glasses to Contacts: What to Expect and How to Adapt

Understanding how to transition from glasses to contact lenses can help ease your fears and make the process more enjoyable. With the right mindset, a bit of patience, and guidance from your optometrist, you can successfully make the change.

 

What to Expect During a Contact Lens Fitting

A contact lens fitting is the first step in the transition from glasses to contacts. During this appointment, your optometrist will assess your eye health, measure your eyes to fit the lenses, and help you choose the best type of contact lens for your needs and lifestyle.

The fitting process begins with a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist will test your vision and check for any eye conditions that could affect your ability to wear contacts. They will also measure your eye's surface to determine the size and type of contacts that will fit you best.

Once your optometrist has determined the best lens for you, they will teach you how to insert, remove, and care for your contacts. You may feel a little uncomfortable at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. It's important to remember that it's normal to take a few days or even a couple of weeks to get used to wearing contacts.

 

Different Types of Contact Lenses Available

The type of contact lens prescribed will depend on your lifestyle, comfort, and the health of your eyes. Soft contact lenses are the most popular type of contact lens. They are made of soft, flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. Soft contact lenses may be easier to adjust to and more comfortable to wear. They're also available in different versions, including daily wear, extended wear, and disposable.

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are more durable, resistant to deposit buildup, and generally give clearer, crisper vision. They tend to be less expensive over the life of the lens since they last longer than soft lenses. They are more rigid and may require a longer adaptation period.

 

How to Successfully Transition from Glasses to Contacts

The transition from glasses to contacts requires patience and practice. Start by wearing your contacts for just a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time as your comfort level improves. Ensure you follow your optometrist's instructions about how long to wear your lenses each day during the adaptation period.

In the initial days, you may experience some discomfort or dryness. Using lubricating eye drops recommended by your optometrist can help alleviate these symptoms. It's normal to feel a slight discomfort in the beginning, but if the discomfort persists, it's important to consult your optometrist.

Adapting to contacts also means adapting your routine. Contact lenses require more care than glasses. You'll need to clean and store them properly to avoid infections and ensure your eyes stay healthy.

 

Contact Lens Care

Proper contact lens care is essential to keep your eyes healthy and ensure your contacts are comfortable to wear. Here's a basic guide to contact lens care:

·       Always wash your hands before handling contact lenses

·       Use only the cleaning solution recommended by your optometrist

·       Clean and rinse your lenses after each use

·       Store your lenses in a clean lens case and replace the case every three months

·       Never sleep in your contacts unless prescribed by your optometrist

 

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial to maintaining eye health, especially if you're transitioning from glasses to contacts. These exams allow your optometrist to ensure the lenses are fitting correctly and not causing any damage to your eyes.

Your optometrist will check your prescription, evaluate your vision with the contacts, and examine the lens on your eye to ensure it's fitting correctly. Regular check-ups also help catch any potential issues early, preventing more serious problems down the line.

 

Embracing the Change from Glasses to Contacts

Adjusting to contacts takes time, and it's normal to experience some discomfort at first. But with regular eye exams and proper lens care, you can ensure your eyes stay healthy while enjoying the benefits of contact lenses. So embrace the change, and welcome to a new way of seeing the world!

If you are considering transitioning from glasses to contact lenses, schedule your eye exam at Valley Vision Associates in our Ellensburg, Washington, office. We provide quality eye care services and products for the entire family. Please call (509) 925-1000 to book an appointment today.