Seeing Clearly With A Calgary Eye Doctor: The Advantages of A Contact Lens Fitting At Our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall

What Are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are thin, curved discs typically made from soft, flexible plastic materials. They are designed to rest directly on the surface of the eye, correcting vision by refracting light to focus properly on the retina. Some of the best Optometrists back in the day were involved in researching and developing this wonderful method to escape prescription glasses.

Who May Benefit from Wearing Contact Lenses?

• Active Individuals: Athletes and outdoor enthusiasts often prefer contact lenses for their freedom of movement. Unlike glasses, which can slip or fog up during physical activities, contact lenses stay in place, providing clear vision without obstruction.
• Aesthetically Conscious: Many people opt for contact lenses for cosmetic reasons. Whether for personal preference or professional appearance, contact lenses offer a natural look without the frames of glasses.
• Peripheral Vision: Contact lenses provide unobstructed peripheral vision, which can be advantageous in activities such as driving or sports where a wide field of view is essential for safety and performance. This is especially true for individuals who had a high prescription identified at their Calgary eye exam.
• Convenience: Contact lenses eliminate the inconvenience of carrying and cleaning glasses. Disposable contact lenses, in particular, offer the convenience of daily wear without the need for maintenance.
• Improved Confidence: For some individuals, wearing contact lenses can boost self-confidence by providing clear vision without the perceived barrier of glasses.

Contact lenses have transformed the landscape of vision correction, offering wearers a convenient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to eyeglasses. Whether for sports, aesthetics, or everyday convenience, contact lenses provide clear vision tailored to individual needs. If the reasons above match up with yours, do a quick search for the best Calgary eye clinic and head over there to see one of their top Eye Doctors for a contact lens fitting eye exam. The eye exam cost in Calgary for these fittings is normally very minimal and you have the peace of mind that your Calgary Optometrist will be guiding you the whole time.

Types of Contact Lenses

Lenses come in various types, including:

• Soft Contact Lenses: Made from water-absorbing materials, these lenses are pliable and conform to the shape of the eye. They offer comfort and are often preferred for everyday use.
• Gas Permeable (GP) Contact Lenses: These lenses are made from rigid, durable materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. GP lenses provide crisp vision and are suitable for correcting a wide range of vision problems.
• Orthokeratology Lenses:  Commonly referred to as Ortho-K, these lenses have gained prominence in recent years as a safe and reversible alternative to refractive surgery. This innovative technique employs specialized gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, correcting myopia and astigmatism. Upon waking, the lenses are removed, leaving the wearer with clear vision throughout the day.
• Hybrid Contact Lenses: Combining features of both soft and GP lenses, hybrid lenses have a rigid centre surrounded by a soft outer ring. They offer the clarity of GP lenses with the comfort of soft lenses.
• Scleral Contact Lenses: These lenses are larger in diameter and vault over the entire cornea, resting on the white part of the eye (sclera). Scleral lenses are often prescribed for irregular corneas or conditions like keratoconus.

Our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall has Calgary Eye Doctors that can do contact lens fitting eye exams for all of the above. Visit us today for a walk-in eye exam and get started on your contact lens journey right away.

Soft contact lenses have become a staple in the realm of vision correction, offering wearers comfort, flexibility, and excellent vision quality. As technology advances, the range of soft contact lenses available continues to expand, catering to various eye conditions and lifestyle preferences. Let's delve into the diverse world of soft contact lenses, exploring the different types and their unique features.

Replacement schedules

• Daily Disposable Lenses: Daily disposable lenses are designed to be worn once and then discarded. They offer the ultimate convenience, eliminating the need for cleaning and storage. These lenses are perfect for individuals with busy lifestyles who prioritize hygiene and convenience. These lenses are also best for patients who have dry eyes. Popular brands for this include daily total one, precision one, acuvue moist, acuvue oasys, and mydays.
• Bi-Weekly and Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses: Bi-weekly or monthly disposable lenses are replaced every two weeks or monthly, depending on the prescribed wearing schedule. These lenses require regular cleaning and disinfection. They are a cost-effective option for those who prefer a longer replacement cycle. Popular brands for this include acuvue oasys biweeklies, acuvue vita, biofinity, total 30, and air optix.

Our Eye Clinic in Southcentre mall stocks all of these brands. If you need a refill or are new to contact lenses, we can help you out. There is daily availability with our experienced Calgary Optometrists and you can get an eye exam near you today.

Prescription

• Toric Lenses: Toric lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism, a condition characterized by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. These lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to correct the astigmatism, providing clear and crisp vision for individuals with this common refractive error.
• Multifocal Lenses: Multifocal lenses are engineered to correct presbyopia, a condition that affects near vision as people age. These lenses contain multiple prescription powers in different zones, allowing wearers to see clearly at various distances, from near to far. Multifocal lenses are an excellent option for individuals who require vision correction for both distance and near tasks.

Lifestyle/ Cosmetic

• Coloured Lenses: Coloured contact lenses are designed not only to correct vision but also to enhance or change the colour of the eyes. They come in a variety of shades and can be worn for cosmetic purposes, allowing wearers to experiment with different eye colours to suit their style or mood. A popular brand for this is the air optix colours.
• Transitions Contact Lenses: The latest innovation in soft contact lens technology, transitions contact lenses seamlessly adapt to changing light conditions, darkening outdoors to shield against harmful UV rays and brightening indoors for optimal clarity. Offering unparalleled convenience and protection, these lenses represent a groundbreaking advancement in vision correction.

Soft contact lenses provide a versatile and comfortable option for vision correction, catering to a wide range of eye conditions and lifestyle preferences. Whether you're looking for daily convenience, specialized correction for astigmatism or presbyopia, or simply want to enhance your eye colour, there's a soft contact lens option to suit your needs. Consult with a top Calgary Optometrist to determine the most suitable type of contact lenses for your eyes and lifestyle. There are many reputable eye clinics in Calgary near you that can help you.

Contact Lens Fitting Procedure

In the quest for clear and comfortable vision, the decision to transition from traditional eyeglasses to contact lenses can be transformative. However, amidst the excitement of exploring this vision correction alternative, it's paramount not to overlook the crucial step of consulting a quality Calgary Optometrist for proper fitting and guidance. Optometrists play an indispensable role in ensuring the safe and effective use of contact lenses, safeguarding both vision and ocular health.

1. Comprehensive Eye Examination: Optometrists commence the contact lens fitting process with a thorough eye examination, evaluating not only visual acuity but also the overall health of the eyes. This examination encompasses assessments of corneal curvature, tear film quality, pupil size, and ocular surface health, providing critical insights into the suitability of contact lens wear. The eye exam cost in Calgary at our Southcentre Mall Calgary Eye Clinic is $119 for adults. Keep in mind though that the eye exam cost in Alberta is covered under Alberta Health Care for seniors and children, thus making it a free eye exam with the coverage.

2. Personalized Prescription: Everyone's eyes possess unique characteristics and requirements, necessitating a customized approach to contact lens prescription. Calgary Optometrists use their expertise to determine the most appropriate lens type, material, and parameters tailored to the wearer's specific needs, ensuring optimal vision correction and comfort.

3. Education and Training: Contact lens fitting extends beyond merely obtaining the correct prescription; it entails imparting essential education and training on proper lens insertion, removal, care, and hygiene practices. Optometrists empower wearers with comprehensive guidance on maintaining ocular hygiene, preventing infections, and addressing any concerns or complications that may arise during lens wear. Our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall doesn’t charge for contact lens trainings if you got the contact lens eye exam done with one of our Calgary Eye Doctors.

4. Evaluation of Lens Fit and Comfort: Optometrists meticulously assess the fit and comfort of contact lenses on the eyes, ensuring proper alignment, centration, and movement with each blink. Through slit-lamp biomicroscopy and subjective feedback from the wearer, optometrists ascertain the adequacy of lens fit and make necessary adjustments to optimize comfort and visual performance. Our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall has affordable fees for all types of contact lens fittings. Call our Calgary Eye Clinic today to find out more details or to talk with one of our top Optometrists.

5. Monitoring Eye Health: Regular follow-up appointments with optometrists are essential to monitor ocular health and the ongoing suitability of contact lens wear. Optometrists conduct periodic evaluations to detect any signs of ocular complications, such as dryness, inflammation, or corneal irregularities, intervening promptly to mitigate potential risks and ensure long-term ocular health. Any emergency issues are covered under Alberta Health Care, thus the eye exam cost in Calgary will be covered. So please make sure to visit a Calgary eye clinic near you if you need an emergency walk-in eye exam.

Optometrists have access to cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and innovative contact lens designs, enabling them to offer personalized solutions for even the most challenging vision correction needs. From specialized lenses for astigmatism and presbyopia to advancements like scleral and orthokeratology lenses, optometrists leverage technology to optimize visual outcomes for every patient.

Risks associated with improper contact lens wear

While contact lenses offer a convenient and effective means of vision correction, wearing the wrong type or fit of lenses can pose significant risks to ocular health. From discomfort and reduced vision clarity to more severe complications, the consequences of wearing incorrect contact lenses underscore the importance of proper fitting and supervision by an eye care professional. Let's explore the potential risks associated with wearing the wrong contact lenses:

• Corneal Abrasions and Infections: Ill-fitting contact lenses can cause friction and irritation against the delicate surface of the cornea, leading to corneal abrasions or scratches. These abrasions create entry points for bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, increasing the risk of microbial infections such as keratitis, which can result in eye pain, red eye, sensitivity to light, and potentially vision loss if left untreated.
• Corneal Ulcers: Prolonged wear of improperly fitted or contaminated contact lenses can predispose wearers to corneal ulcers, which are serious infections of the cornea. Corneal ulcers can lead to severe eye pain, blurry vision, and corneal scarring, posing a significant threat to ocular health and vision.
• Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): GPC is an inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of large, raised bumps (papillae) on the inner surface of the eyelids. It is often associated with prolonged contact lens wear, particularly with lenses that do not fit properly or are not adequately cleaned. GPC can cause discomfort, itchy eyes, red eye, and mucous discharge, leading to decreased lens tolerance and visual acuity.
• Dry Eye Syndrome: Wearing contact lenses that do not provide sufficient oxygen transmission to the cornea or retain adequate moisture can contribute to dry eye syndrome. Symptoms of dry eye syndrome include eye irritation, burning, stinging, excessive tearing, and blurry vision, adversely affecting comfort and visual clarity during lens wear.
• Allergic Reactions: Certain contact lens materials, solutions, or preservatives may elicit allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Allergic reactions can manifest as itchy eyes, red eyes, swelling, and discharge, compromising comfort and necessitating discontinuation of lens wear until symptoms resolve.
• Corneal Warpage: Extended wear of contact lenses with an improper fit or prescription can induce corneal warpage, characterized by changes in corneal shape and curvature. Corneal warpage can result in blurry vision, astigmatism, and difficulty achieving optimal visual correction with contact lenses or glasses.
• Vision Disturbances: Wearing incorrect contact lenses, including those with an improper prescription or design, can lead to sub-optimal visual outcomes, such as blurry vision, ghosting, halos, or glare. These visual disturbances can impair performance in daily activities and increase the risk of accidents, particularly during tasks requiring precise vision, such as driving or operating machinery.

Conclusion

The decision to pursue contact lens wear represents a significant milestone in the journey toward enhanced vision and lifestyle convenience. However, this journey is best undertaken under the guidance of a qualified Calgary Optometrist who possesses the expertise, experience, and resources to ensure the safe and effective use of contact lenses. By prioritizing comprehensive eye examinations, personalized prescriptions, education on proper lens care, and ongoing monitoring of ocular health, Eye Doctors play an indispensable role in safeguarding the vision and eye health of contact lens wearers. Schedule a consultation at our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall with one of our top Optometrists near you. We offer walk-in eye exams every day with contact lens fitting possible same-day.