Contact Lens Fitting

Contact lenses can be used to correct myopia (short sightedness) or hyperopia (long sightedness). There are also contact lenses now that correct for astigmatism or for multifocal spectacle wearers.

There are a wide range of contact lenses to choose from.  What is important is to ensure that you are correctly fitted with the right contact lens for your needs. Otherwise, the freedom and benefit of contact lenses will not be realised.

The Contact Lens Exam

The examination for contact lenses is not the same as the exam for glasses (fully or partially covered by Medicare).  For contact lens wearers, a contact lens fitting consultation is required in addition to a standard eye examination.  The two exams are actually quite different and a contact lens fitting consultation is not covered by Medicare unless a patient has a high prescription.

Contact lens fitting is essential to determine the correct size of the contact lenses. The required prescription may be different to a prescription for spectacles because a spectacle prescription is measured for optical lenses that are 12mm to 14mm from the eye, while a contact lens fitting measures for lenses that sit directly on the eye. Contact lenses that have not been correctly fitted can be detrimental to your eye health.

The optometrist will make suggestions on the most suitable wearing pattern for disposable contact lenses, and where appropriate will prescribe a pair of trial lenses. Instruction on wearing and how to handle and properly care for the new lenses will be provided.  A follow-up exam will be scheduled to ensure all is well with the new lenses, and that the eyes have adjusted to contact lens wear.

Types of Contact Lenses

Soft Disposable Contact Lenses

Soft disposable contact lenses generally provide the most comfortable wearing experience and are easy to care for. Soft disposable lenses are available in daily, fortnightly and monthly replacement options.

Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal contact lenses can be a good option for those who find reading with single vision contact lenses difficult. Multifocal contact lenses provide a balance between near and distance vision.

Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses

Unlike soft contact lenses, these lenses are a breathable harder type of material. These lenses are often custom-made, hence a great option for those whose needs extend beyond those that soft contact lenses can offer, such as those with high scripts or more complex conditions such as high astigmatism or keratoconus.

Ortho-K Lenses

Orthokeratology uses hard lenses designed to be worn overnight to give clear, corrected vision during the day. Ortho-k lenses are also used to help reduce the progression of myopia (or short-sightedness). For more information, visit our Orthokeratology page.

If you are interested in contacts, or you already wear them and want to have your contact lenses prescription updated, please let us know when you are booking your appointment.

Contact lens technology continues to develop each year and are available for just about any prescription. Our optometrists are able to recommend the best fit to provide you with clear vision.