Contact Lenses

My vision is changing and like the rest of us over the magic age of 40 I am continuing to reach for my glasses more and more. While I love my vision with my glasses and the fashion statement they create, I realise it is not always the most convenient or practical option with my active lifestyle.

As an independent optometry practice we have unlimited access to new contact lens technology as it continues to evolve- allowing  us to treat each patient as an individual  and make the right choice for their precious eyes and their vision.

We want our patient’s eyes to look good, see well and feel great. With the vast range available to us at Eyes of Howick it is very rare to not be able to achieve both clear vision and a comfortable fit. Lens materials are more breathable than ever before so there is simply no need for red, irritable eyes just because you choose to wear contact lenses.

Contact lenses may be worn with a daily replacement schedule- the most hygienic and convenient option; fortnightly or monthly replacement or even monthly extended wear- whereby the lenses are only removed from the eye one night per month.

Prescription availability is extensive with both astigmatic and multifocal prescriptions available. We even have access to the amazing Acuvue Transitions contact lens which has adaptive tint technology- perfect for our glare sensitive patients and even those who have difficulty driving at night.

As part of the contact lens fitting process we spend time with you to teach you not only how to insert and remove your lenses safely but also how to best care for your lenses. We appreciate it can be quite a new experience learning to insert a lens into your eye but we have found with our expert coaching most of our patients become masters in no time!

Feel free to contact us with regard to any queries you may have or book a consultation with one of our Optometrists. We can even offer a free contact lens trial to allow you to experience the world through contact lenses!

Tips and Tricks for Contact Lens Wearers

Whether it’s your first-time wearing contact lenses or you are a seasoned wearer but you are still trying to find the best techniques, here are some insertion, removal tips and the dos and don’ts of contact lens wear. 

Insertion tips

• Insert the same lens first – this is to avoid confusion and inserting a lens into the wrong eye!.

• Ensure the lens is moist from the contact lens solution – a dehydrated contact lens will not adhere to the eye, will be uncomfortable and may compromise your vision.

• Check the lens is not inside out – look at the side profile of the lens as it balances on the tip of your finger. If it is the correct way the lens will appear spherical as opposed to having a fluted edge like a pudding bowl. Alternatively, gently squeeze the lens between your thumb and forefinger. If it touches, the lens is the correct way. This is known as the ‘taco test’

• Place the contact lens on the tip of your index finger and with with the middle finger of the same hand pull down your lower lid

• Use your free hand to pull the top eye lid up right at the edge of the lid near the lashes – this will help to stop the blink reflex

• Keep looking straight ahead while bringing the lens towards the eye – this helps to centre the lens on the cornea

• Once the lens is on the eye, gently move your eyes around and close them – this helps to displace any air bubbles and makes ensures the lens is centered

Removal tips

If you feel your contact lens is a bit dry apply a lubricating eye drop to the eye – this will help the lens slide of the eye

Pull down your lower eyelid with your middle finger and look either up or to the side

·Using the index finger of the same hand slide the lens to the white part of the eye ( the sclera)

Using your thumb and index finger carefully pinch the lens and remove it from the eye – the contact has remained on your eye for the whole day so don’t be afraid to apply a bit of pressure  

Dos

• Trim your nails- particularly on your thumb and index finger- this reduces the risk of scratching your eye!

• Always wash your hands with soap and water and dry with a lint-free towel or tissue before handling your lenses

• Discontinue contact lens wear if you experience persistent discomfort, redness or blurred vision – contact your optometrist for advice

• Insert and remove your contact lenses before applying or removing your make up

• Clean your lenses thoroughly – follow the instructions given by your optometrist. If you are wearing daily disposable contact lenses, there is no cleaning routine required.

• Clean your contact lens case – this is just as important as cleaning your contact lenses. In fact a dirty lens case is the most common source of eye infections.

• Use contact lens solution to rub and rinse it. Or once per week wash with hot soapy water and allow it to air dry. It is recommended to replace your case every 3 months- a bit like your tooth brush!

• Always purchase your lenses from an eye care professional to ensure your lenses are legitimate and have not been involved in any industry safety recalls. Evidence shows a higher incidence of contact lens related complications in people who simply buy their lenses of the internet.

• Return to your optometrist on an annual basis to ensure your eyes remain healthy and your lenses are still the best option for you and your lifestyle.

Don’ts

• Use tap water to store, clean or rinse your contact lenses – water can have a variety of microorganisms that can cause serious infection to the eye.

• Take care around water based activities such as showering, swimming in pools, hot tubs or saunas. When swimming keep your eyes closed or wear goggles. Daily replacement contact lenses are the safest for water sports.

• ·Wear your lenses sleeping – unless advised by your optometrist. It has been shown to increase the risk of an eye infection by up to 8 times.

• Use the lens if the pack is open or damaged or if the lens itself is damaged

• Use expired lenses or solutions

 No matter what type of contact lens you wear, remember that contact lens care and safety are crucial to maintaining good eye health and an enjoyable contact lens wearing experience.