During a contact lens exam and fitting at Primary Eye Care Associates, our expert optometrist, Dr. Steven Chander, will evaluate your eye health and vision. He will also ask about your lifestyle and hobbies to identify the most suitable type of contact lens for you.  

If you’ve been told you can’t wear contact lenses before, we may be able to help. We offer a variety of specialized lenses designed for patients with hard-to-fit conditions. Dr. Chander will conduct a thorough contact lens exam to find the best fitting contact lens for your specific eye care needs.  

What to expect during a contact lens exam  

A contact lens exam may be conducted as part of your comprehensive eye exam or may be scheduled as a separate appointment. Here’s what you can expect during a contact lens exam at our practice: 

• During the contact lens exam, Dr. Chander will evaluate the size and shape of your eyes and will also check for any eye health issues which may prevent you from wearing contact lenses comfortably. 
• To find the perfect fit for your contact lenses, our eye doctor will measure the curvature and diameter of your cornea using advanced technology like a corneal topographer. Astigmatism may require you to wear a toric lens (a special type of lens that counteracts flaws on the surface).  
• Our eye doctor may also evaluate your tear film to determine if you have a condition known as dry eye syndrome.    

Once these tests are complete, Dr. Chander will recommend the right contact lens type for your unique needs. He will provide you with trial contact lenses to ensure a comfortable fit and clear vision. If you’re new to wearing contact lenses, he will guide you through proper lens care, insertion, and removal techniques. We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your eye health and ensure your contact lenses continue to fit well and provide optimal vision. 

Why do I need an exam for contact lenses?   

Whether you currently wear contact lenses or would like to try wearing them, there are several reasons you need a contact lens exam.   

Determine the right prescription 

Contact lenses require a specific prescription that may be different than your eyeglasses prescription. A contact lens exam helps determine the right prescription to ensure your lenses fit comfortably and provide clear vision. Contact lenses are also classified as medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and potentially pose risks to the wearer if not used properly. As such, they are subject to regulations and standards to ensure their safety and efficacy. 

Evaluate eye health 

Wearing contact lenses involves direct contact with your eyes, which can potentially affect your eye health. A contact lens exam includes a thorough evaluation of your eye health, including the front surface of your eyes, the cornea, and the conjunctiva. This assessment helps identify any underlying conditions or potential issues that may impact your ability to wear contact lenses safely. 

Assess fit and comfort 

Contact lenses come in various types, including soft lenses, rigid gas permeable lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses, and more. During the exam, Dr. Chander will determine which type of lens is most suitable for your eyes and lifestyle. He will consider factors such as your prescription, eye shape, tear production, and visual needs to find the right fit and lens material for optimal comfort and vision. 

Discuss care and maintenance 

If you are new to contact lenses or switching to a different type or brand, a contact lens exam provides an opportunity for your eye doctor to discuss care and maintenance. You will receive training on proper handling, care, and insertion and removal of your contact lenses. Taking proper care of your contact lenses and following your eye doctor’s instructions is key to experiencing comfortable, clear vision and maintaining healthy eyes.   

Schedule a contact lens exam in Chicago 

Our eye doctor in Chicago has expertise in successfully fitting patients with the right contact lenses for their visual needs, eye health, and lifestyle. Whether you wear contact lenses already or would like to, we can help you find the perfect fitting lens. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at Primary Eye Care Associates in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood of Chicago near Midway International Airport.