With screen time on the rise, many patients are asking about blue light filtering contact lenses. These lenses aim to reduce exposure to blue light emitted by digital devices and LED lighting. While research is still ongoing, some users report less eye fatigue and improved comfort when wearing them. This lens option has gained popularity, … Continued
Daily disposable lenses have become one of the most in-demand options among contact lens users. Their appeal lies in their simplicity: no cleaning or storage is required, and patients get a fresh lens each day. This format is especially attractive to busy adults, teenagers, occasional wearers, and frequent travelers. Because these lenses are discarded after … Continued
Today’s contact lens wearers expect more than just clear vision. As lens technology continues to evolve, so do patient expectations. Many now prioritize convenience, comfort, and compatibility with their daily lifestyle over traditional product features. There’s increasing interest in lenses with added benefits, such as blue light protection for screen use, UV-blocking capabilities for outdoor … Continued
Follow-up appointments are critical moments for reinforcing success with contact lens wear. These visits allow practitioners to reassess fit, clarify instructions, and address any patient concerns. They also strengthen the provider-patient relationship, making patients feel supported and more likely to stay compliant. Practitioners should ask clear, open-ended questions, such as “How often do you clean … Continued
While digital tools are valuable, hands-on teaching remains essential in contact lens education. Practicing lens insertion and removal with mirrors, trial lenses, or model eyes helps patients feel more confident and less anxious—especially first-time wearers (Vianya-Estopa et al., 2023). Printed materials, such as anatomical diagrams, written instructions, and step-by-step photo guides, serve as excellent reinforcements. … Continued
Technology has become a powerful ally in improving patient education and compliance. Tools like patient portals, video tutorials, and automated reminders help reinforce hygiene and handling instructions after the initial fitting, especially for busy patients who may forget verbal guidance. Telemedicine platforms have expanded access to care by allowing virtual follow-ups, during which practitioners can … Continued
Supporting patient confidence is essential for long-term success with soft contact lenses. While teaching technical skills like insertion, removal, and hygiene is important, communication that builds trust is equally vital. When patients feel well-informed and supported, they are more likely to follow care instructions, attend follow-up visits, and comply with routine recommendations. Confidence grows when … Continued
Patient communication is evolving alongside technology. In today’s digital world, interactive methods and online tools are helping eye care professionals educate patients more effectively than ever before. These modern approaches can increase compliance, reduce user error, and support long-term success, especially for younger or more tech-savvy patients. Video tutorials, patient portals, digital reminders, and interactive … Continued
One-time verbal instruction often isn’t enough to create long-term hygiene habits. Follow-up appointments offer important opportunities to reinforce proper care steps. Providers should ask open-ended questions like, “How do you clean your lenses each night?” This invites honest feedback and uncovers unsafe routines. In-office demonstrations are especially useful for new wearers. Practicing with the patient … Continued
Improper contact lens care, even with small shortcuts, can lead to serious complications. One major mistake is “topping off” solution, which means adding new disinfecting solution to old solution in the lens case. This dilutes the disinfectant and allows bacteria to survive, increasing the risk of infections like microbial keratitis. Another common issue is reusing … Continued
Effective cleaning and disinfection are essential for preventing eye infections and maintaining lens comfort. Patients should always start by washing their hands thoroughly with soap and water, then drying them with a clean, lint-free towel to avoid transferring oils or particles to the lens or eye. Reusable lenses must be cleaned after every use, even … Continued
Maintaining proper hygiene is critical for safe and successful contact lens wear. Even a perfectly fitted lens can lead to problems like irritation, dryness, or serious infections if the patient does not follow proper care routines. Most contact lens-related issues, such as microbial infections, inflammation, and lens dropout, are preventable and often result from incorrect … Continued
While clinical tools like slit lamp assessments are important, patient feedback is just as critical in the fitting process. A lens that looks perfect during examination might still feel uncomfortable or cause vision instability in real-life use. Practitioners should ask focused questions like Does your vision stay clear when you blink? Do your lenses feel … Continued
After selecting a lens, a trial fitting is used to evaluate its performance directly on the patient’s eye. Before assessment, let the lens settle for about 5 to 10 minutes. Using a slit lamp, the practitioner checks for proper centration, appropriate movement, and smooth edge alignment. A lens that centers well typically offers better comfort … Continued
Accurate corneal measurements are critical for selecting the correct soft contact lens. Keratometry is commonly used to measure the central curvature of the cornea and is effective for patients with standard corneal shapes. However, for more complex or irregular corneas, corneal topography provides a detailed map of the entire corneal surface, offering more precise data … Continued
The base curve and diameter are essential fitting parameters that determine how well a soft contact lens conforms to the eye. The base curve refers to the curvature of the lens’s back surface and should closely align with the corneal curvature. A base curve that’s too flat can cause the lens to move too much, … Continued
Getting the contact lens fit right is one of the most important steps in the prescribing process. Even the most advanced lenses will not perform well if the fit is incorrect. A poor fit can lead to blurred vision, discomfort, or even corneal injury if left uncorrected. A thorough clinical evaluation ensures that the lens … Continued
Recent innovations in contact lens materials are expanding how lenses support both vision and eye health. For example, blue light filtering lenses are becoming more popular among digital professionals and students. These lenses may help reduce digital eye strain, though ongoing clinical research is still validating their effectiveness (Seo et al., 2023). Another advancement is … Continued