Should I Wear My Contacts to an Eye Exam?
The short answer is: usually, no. While it might seem logical to wear your contacts, it's generally recommended that you do not wear your contact lenses to your comprehensive eye exam. Here's why:
Why Your Eye Doctor Wants You to Go Without Contacts
Your eye doctor needs to get a clear, unobstructed view of your eyes to perform a thorough examination. Contact lenses, even if worn for only a short time, can:
- Distort the shape of your cornea: This can affect the accuracy of measurements for prescriptions and diagnoses of conditions like astigmatism.
- Mask underlying problems: Contact lenses can temporarily hide minor corneal irregularities or other issues that need addressing. Your doctor needs to see the underlying eye structure to provide the best possible care.
- Interfere with certain tests: Some tests, such as tonometry (measuring eye pressure for glaucoma), require direct contact with the cornea and are impossible to perform accurately with lenses in place.
- Cause discomfort during the exam: Removing contacts right before your appointment can cause irritation or dryness. A contact-free exam allows for a more comfortable experience.
What If I Only Wear Contacts Occasionally?
Even if you only wear contacts occasionally, it's still best to leave them out for your eye exam. The brief period of wear can still impact the accuracy of the examination. Your optometrist needs to assess your eyes in their natural state to provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
What Happens If I Forget?
If you accidentally wear your contacts to your appointment, be sure to inform your eye doctor immediately. They can usually still conduct the exam, though certain tests might be affected. They will likely ask you to remove your lenses so they can examine your eyes without any interference.
How Long Should I Be Contact Lens-Free Before My Exam?
The specific time frame depends on the type of contact lenses you wear and your individual eye health. However, it's generally recommended to remove your contacts at least a few hours before your appointment to allow your corneas to return to their natural shape. Your doctor may provide specific instructions during scheduling.
Can I Wear My Contacts For a Certain Type of Eye Exam?
No, generally it’s better to avoid wearing contacts for any type of eye exam, regardless of the type of exam. This includes routine exams, glaucoma tests, and more. Your doctor will need to assess your eyes without interference from contact lenses to get the most accurate and detailed results.
In conclusion, while it might seem convenient, removing your contacts before your eye exam is crucial for ensuring accurate diagnoses and optimal eye care. Your eye doctor's goal is to provide you with the best possible vision correction and to detect any underlying eye health issues early, and a contact-lens-free exam significantly improves their ability to do so.
