Before you make the switch from standard eyeglasses to contact lenses, it’s important to understand how your routine will change. Contact lenses are a simple way to see throughout the day and are practically invisible. Here the eye care team at Alexander Eye Associates & Optical, in Rochester, NY, shares a few tips for using contacts for the first time.

5 Ways to Master New Contact Lenses

1. Understand Your Prescription

At your initial eye exam with the optometrist, they will fit you for the strength and shape of the lenses. The prescription strength could vary in each eye so it’s essential to know the difference from the right to the left. Also, ask about the replacement time frame. Some pairs last six months, while others last 30 days or 24-hours. Depending on your type of lenses and brand, the doctor will let you know about the replacement period.

2. Start Slowly

Contact lenses require a lot of attention to detail and patience. Talk with your optometrist about the length of time to keep them in your eyes. Some recommend starting off with a few hours and working your way up to longer periods.

3. Learn the Maintenance Process

Before you do anything, wash your hands. You don’t want any dirt getting into your eyes. Keep your contact lenses hydrated and disinfected while you sleep and store them in a clean case with the recommended contact solution. Avoid using tap water to clean the lenses as this may damage the prescription.

4. Practice Your Insertion & Removal Routine

If you’re not comfortable touching your eye, it may take a lot of time to complete this task and get comfortable with inserting and removing the contact. It’s normal for this to feel slightly awkward and uncomfortable in the beginning, but practice makes perfect! Give yourself enough time for this task before you leave the house or go to bed.

5. Listen to Your Eyes

When you are constantly looking at a computer screen, in the air conditioning, or getting dust in your eye, you can expect a slight irritation to occur. Stay hydrated and blink often. This should help subside and ease any irritation. If you still experience dryness, talk with your optometrist about other moisturizing options like eye drops. 

If you or a loved one is ready to make the switch to contact lenses, Alexander Eye Associates & Optical will answer your questions and satisfy all your eye care needs. Their well-known dedication to patients and quality service makes them the top practice in Rochester. Call (585) 325-3070 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.