FAQs

Why do I need a prescription for contact lenses?

A contact lens is a medical device; hence, only an optometrist can measure your need for vision correction as well as determining which size and type of contact lens is best for you. In addition, the changes in your vision and eye health can only be detected by specialized equipment used by, and procedures performed by, eye doctors. Therefore, a prescription is a prerequisite to finding the perfect lens for you.

I already have a contact lens prescription, can I buy online?

Yes, providing that you have an up-to-date contact lens prescription.

How old do I have to be to wear contact lenses?

The average age is 13. However, since successful lens’ wear depends more on responsibility and attitude rather than age, there are cases where children under 13 have been deemed mature enough to wear and care for contact lenses. Consult your optometrist so that they can advise you on all your contact wearing needs.

I would like to wear contact lenses. How long does it take to get used to them?

Your eyes adjusting to the wearing of contact lenses, largely depends on your eye sensitivity and choice of lens, e.g., soft, or rigid gas permeable (RGP). This may take only a day; however, it could, potentially, take two weeks or more. Having said this there are some extremely rare cases where an individual cannot ever get used to wearing contact lenses.

Are contact lenses comfortable to wear?

Millions of people worldwide who wear contacts believe that they are. New technology has rendered lenses exceptionally comfortable.

Which type of contact lens is right for me?

Selecting the right contact lens for you involves two important considerations. Firstly, you must take an eye test so that the exact lens needed to correct your vision will be determined plus the correct power, diameter and curvature of the lens you need be determined, too. It is worthy of note that when contact lenses are not properly prescribed, your vision won’t be accurately corrected.

Furthermore, a poorly fit lens could result in discomfort, inflammation, swelling, abrasion, or other problems that could (in rare cases) result in eye tissue damage. However, bear in mind that the finding of the perfect lens for your eyes may take several tries.

Can I use tap water with contact lenses?

No, absolutely not. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) advises that contact lenses are not to be exposed to any type of water as a single-celled organism, Acanthamoeba, present in tap water and other forms of impure water, can become attached to a lens and cause a sight-threatening infection.

Can I sleep in my contact lenses?

Ask your doctor. It depends on the type of lens you're wearing, the composition of your tear film, your general eye health, and other factors. We advise that you never wear them while sleeping unless your eye care practitioner has agreed that you can.

Can I wear contacts while participating in sports or recreational activities?

Bring it on! Contacts offer crisp, clear vision and you won’t have to worry about them fogging up, falling off or breaking during a game, or experience a loss of peripheral (side) vision as you would with glasses. Even so, contact lenses are not a substitute for eye protection. It is recommended that you wear appropriate goggles, masks, etc. when participating in sports.

Are contact lenses more expensive than glasses?

Contacts can be surprisingly affordable. And with vision insurance, out-of-pocket costs may be even less. Plus, replacing a lost contact lens can be cheap and easy to do compared to that of replacing lost or damaged glasses.

Can I continue using my glasses if I start wearing contact lenses?

Of course. You can wear both contacts and glasses, alternating for specific activities, needs, or preference. However, contacts can be used full-time. The choice is yours.

Can contact lenses scratch your eye?

Contact lens-related problems are unlikely; nonetheless, they may occur. Most common eye health issues are related to poorly fitting lenses or not following an eye doctor’s recommended lens wear schedule to the letter. Should you experience any unusual eye discomfort or changes in your vision, remove your lenses and call your eye doctor immediately.

Can I continue to wear my lenses if they are still comfortable after the recommended replacement period?

Contact lens’ materials vary, and lenses are not not to be worn for longer than the replacement period recommended by your eye care professional. The purpose of replacing contact lenses frequently is for you to enjoy the benefits which they were designed to provide. A recent study conducted by the Centre for Contact Lens Research shows that silicone hydrogel lens patients who were compliant with the manufacturer-recommended replacement schedule had better comfort and vision than those who were not. Check with your eye care professional for the lens replacement frequency most appropriate for you.

How can I tell if I have the lens in the wrong eye?

Shut one eye tight and or cover it with your hand. If your vision in one eye is noticeably better or worse than the other, then you should switch the lens and repeat the process.

How can I tell if a soft lens is inside out?

The following methods are suggested; however, please note they don’t all work for all lenses

Place the lens on the tip of your finger facing upward, like a bowl. If when viewed from the side the edges of the bowl flare outward, it’s inside out.
Add saline, drop by drop to fill the bowl. If the edges begin to curl inwards, it’s the correct way.
Place the lens on the crease in your hand just below your pinkie, often referred to as the “life or heart line”, ensuring that the lens is centred over the crease. As you curl your fingers inward to close your hand, the edges of the lens should roll inwards to form a “soft taco” which indicates it is in correct position.

My lens has a very small chip or tear in the edge but it doesn’t bother me. Should I replace it anyway?

Yes, you must replace it as you must not wear a lens which is damaged, even if you cannot feel the difference as it could potentially be causing damage to your eyes. Furthermore, you must not wear a lens which is uncomfortable, causes pain or leaves your vision hazy or distorted.

Note: ensure that you keep your lens care products clean, and not allow the tip of the bottles to come into contact with any surface. Should this happen, discard the next few drops immediately. Always close the container with the original top immediately after use.