Contact lenses are a popular solution for people who need corrective vision and want to avoid wearing glasses. But what if you have been prescribed contact lenses? Can you use your glasses prescription to get contacts? The answer is yes! Contact lens prescriptions can be based on your eyeglasses prescription. In fact, many eye doctors like Stephen M. Wolchok MD will prescribe both at the same time to save you time and money.
We’ll go over some of the basics about getting contact lenses with an existing eyeglasses prescription below:
1. What are contact lenses?
Contact lenses are a wearable solution to correct vision. They come in either rigid gas permeable (RGP) or soft contact lens varieties and can be made from different materials such as silicone hydrogel, polymacon, gelatin, etc. These contacts rest on the surface of your eye and allow light waves to enter through them so your eye can focus on objects at different distances.
Soft contacts are typically used for people who have dry or sensitive eyes because they allow the most oxygen to pass through them. Hydrogel lenses provide more comfort and better vision than silicone hydrogels but may be slightly more expensive.
Rigid contact lenses do not allow water to pass through them and are typically made from plastic. Rigid contacts may be more comfortable but can cause dry eyes or eye strain if not correctly fitted.
A contact lens must fit snugly on your eye for it to stay put. If the lenses don’t touch your skin directly, they have a greater chance of moving and wear out faster.
A good eye doctor should examine your eyes with an instrument called a slit lamp, which uses light waves to detect any irregularities in the lens, such as scratches or deposits that may cause discomfort.
2. Why would I want to get contacts instead of glasses?
There are many reasons to consider contact lenses over eyeglasses. First, they can be less expensive than glasses. For example, a good quality pair of contacts could cost around $150, while a similar set of eyewear would range from $200 -$600 or higher depending on the brand and style you choose. Second, wearing contacts has been shown to reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.
3. Do the benefits outweigh the costs?
The costs of contact lenses are lower than glasses, and they may be more convenient to wear, but there is a risk like any other medical device. The most common risks include eye infections, which can lead to corneal ulcers or perforations. Eye-related injuries such as scratches on the lens surface are caused by improper handling or accidental contact with the lens surface.
A good eye care professional will be able to help you understand both the benefits and risks of wearing contact lenses, so your decision is an informed one.
4. Can I use my glasses prescription to get contacts?
Yes! Your contact lens prescriptions can be based on your eyeglasses prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. In fact, many eye doctors will prescribe both at the same time to save you time and money!
Contact lenses are an excellent choice for those who need corrective vision and want to avoid wearing glasses. Contact lenses can be less expensive than eyeglasses and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration. Soft contact lenses may provide more comfort but may not be suitable for sensitive eyes or dry eye syndrome. Talk to your eye doctor about the risks and benefits to determine if contact lenses are right for you.