| Dr. Philip B. Smith is an Optometrist and has answered some common questions that Bizymoms visitors have about Contact Lens.
Q. What is involved in a Contact Lens examination and Fitting?
A. After the patient has a complete visual eye health examination we will discuss the pros and cons of contacts for their eyes. If they want to try contacts we will see them for a contact lens "trial fitting" where they can experience contacts as it relates to comfort and seeing. If this goes well, which in most cases it does, then they are matched with a staff person to learn how to insert and remove contacts, use of solution, and what to do and not do with the contacts. I would see them for a minimum of three follow-up visits to check the fitting and vision and then we would order the contacts. The price of the trial fitting is between $75.00 and $125.00 depending on the complexity of the type of contact (distance only vs. bifocal).
Q. Why is a yearly contact examination needed?
A. Since the contact lens rides on the front of the eye called the cornea and the eye is susceptible to infections and irritations if not treated correctly,a yearly examination is necessary to maintain the integrity and health of the eye.
Q. Can children wear contacts?
A. Yes, the youngest I have fit is 6 months old (parents had to insert and remove the lens) but 6-7 year olds can learn to handle the lens themselves.
Q. What is the difference between hard and soft contacts?
A. Hard contacts are firm lenses made of plastic and are used to correct high amounts of astigmatism (irregular curvatures of the cornea), keratoconus(coning of the cornea) and other corneal abnormalities. Soft lenses are used the majority of the time for most patients and give good comfort and vision.
Q. Why shouldn’t I wear my two-week disposable lens longer?
A. Through contact lens studies it has been shown that a significant number of contact lens wearers who wear their lens longer than two weeks ( if that is the type they were prescribed) will start to build up filming on the lens, which can cause irritation and infections. It is like trying to wear clothes longer than you should. It is possible to do it, but there are consequences.
Q. Can I wear Extended Wear contacts safely overnight?
A. Yes, if prescribed by your doctor and follow over a number of weeks to make sure it is safe for you. Even though a lens has been FDA approved to wear overnight, not ALL patients can do it safely. Your doctor will be able to tell you if it is safe or not.
Q. How can I contact Dr. Smith if I have further questions?
A. I can be reached at 619-297-4331 during office hours, or for emergency my cell number is 619-417-4542 or e-mail me at drphilsmith68@gmail.com. My website is www.drphilsmith.com. |
