contact lens

Contact Lens Fittings at Eye London Opticians: What You Need to Know

Making the switch to contact lenses can be an exciting step towards a new level of freedom and convenience. Here at I-Perspective, eye London opticians, we’re dedicated to helping you find the perfect fit for clear vision and comfortable wear. This guide will take you through the process of a contact lens fitting at our practice.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Consultation: We’ll begin with a comprehensive consultation to discuss your individual needs and preferences in detail. Here are some of the key areas we’ll explore:

  • Current Vision Correction: Do you currently wear eyeglasses? If so, what is your prescription? Have you ever worn contact lenses before, and if so, what was your experience?
  • Vision Issues: Are you experiencing any specific vision difficulties, such as blurry vision at near or far distances, halos or glare around lights, or difficulty focusing?
  • Lifestyle: What is your typical work environment like? Is it dusty, do you work around dry air conditioning or computer screens for extended periods? Do you participate in any sports or hobbies that require good vision, such as swimming, running, or playing computer games?
  • Daily Routines: How often do you shower or wash your hands throughout the day? Do you use a lot of eye makeup or hairspray? These factors can influence the type of lens material and wearing schedule that’s best for you.

We’ll also discuss your desired outcome with contact lenses. Are you looking for an everyday option, or occasional wear for sports or social events? Knowing your goals will help us tailor the fitting process to your specific needs.

Benefits of Choosing Eye London Opticians for Your Contact Lens Fitting

  • Experienced Opticians: Our team of qualified opticians has extensive experience in fitting a wide range of contact lenses, including:
    • Soft lenses: These are the most common type of contact lens, offering a comfortable and flexible fit for most wearers.
    • Toric lenses: Designed to correct astigmatism, a condition that causes blurred vision at all distances. Toric lenses have a special design that helps to compensate for the irregular shape of the cornea.
    • Multifocal lenses: Also known as bifocal or varifocal contacts, these lenses provide clear vision at both near and far distances, ideal for people with presbyopia, an age-related condition that makes it difficult to focus on close objects.
    • Daily disposable lenses: A convenient option that offers fresh, clean lenses every day, eliminating the need for cleaning solutions and lens care routines.
    • Extended wear lenses: These lenses can be worn for a longer period, such as overnight, depending on the type and your eye health.
  • Advanced Technology: We utilise cutting-edge equipment to ensure a precise and comfortable fit for your lenses. This may include:
    • Corneal topography: This computerised mapping system creates a detailed 3D image of the shape of your cornea, allowing us to select lenses that perfectly match your unique eye curvature.
    • Wavefront aberrometry: This advanced technology measures tiny imperfections in your eye that can affect vision quality. This information can be used to customise contact lenses for optimal visual performance.
  • Personalised Service: We understand that everyone’s eyes are unique. We’ll take the time to address your individual needs and concerns to find the perfect contact lens solution for you. This may involve trying different lens materials, designs, and parameters until we find the best fit for your comfort and vision correction.
  • Ongoing Support: We’re here for you after your fitting as well. Don’t hesitate to schedule follow-up appointments for any questions or adjustments that may arise. Our experienced opticians will provide ongoing care and support to ensure your continued success with contact lenses.

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule your contact lens fitting appointment today! Call us, book online, or walk in.

We look forward to helping you achieve clear vision and comfortable lens wear! At I-Perspective, an Eye London Optician, your eye health and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Contact Lens

Understanding the Latest Advances in Contact Lens Technology

As optometrists, we constantly seek the latest advancements in eye care technology to offer the best solutions to our clients. The field of contact lenses has seen particularly exciting developments over the past few years. These innovations aim to enhance the comfort and overall user experience, making daily wear more pleasurable than ever before. We’re here to explore the significant strides made in contact lens technology, focusing on how these advances can benefit you, whether you’re a longstanding wearer or considering contact lenses for the first time.

The breakthroughs in contact lens technology are designed to improve how you see and enhance how you feel while wearing your lenses throughout the day. From features designed to minimise dry eye discomfort to those offering superior protection against harmful UV rays, the new generation of contact lenses is tailored to meet more diverse needs than ever before. By understanding these innovations, we can better guide our clients to make informed decisions about their eye health, ensuring they choose products that uphold both their vision and overall ocular well-being.

What Are the Latest Innovations in Contact Lens Technology?

In the realm of eye care, we are witnessing remarkable advancements that redefine the standards of contact lens technology. As we move further into 2024, several key innovations have emerged, setting new benchmarks for user experience and eye health management. Firstly, the development of silicone hydrogel contact lenses showcases a significant leap. These lenses allow more oxygen to pass through to the cornea than traditional hydrogel lenses, considerably reducing the risk of hypoxia-related complications and enhancing wearer comfort. 

Another exciting advancement is the introduction of daily disposable lenses with improved material properties that ensure enhanced comfort and reduced irritation. These disposable lenses are convenient and designed with advanced hydration technologies, ensuring that the eyes stay moist throughout the day. We are committed to staying at the forefront of these innovations, providing our clients with products that correct their vision and contribute positively to their overall eye health.

How New Contact Lens Technologies Enhance User Comfort

The latest innovations in contact lens technology have placed a strong emphasis on enhancing user comfort, an essential factor for daily wearers. One of the most significant advances includes enhancing lens surface technology to reduce friction, allowing the lens to glide more smoothly over the eye’s surface. This development minimises the sensation of the lens on the eye, making it almost imperceptible to the wearer. Additionally, modern contact lenses have integrated hydration technologies that help to maintain moisture levels in the eyes. These technologies work by embedding moisture-attracting molecules into the lens material, which helps to prevent dryness and maintain comfort throughout the day. 

It’s important for us to explain how these technologies function, as understanding the benefits can help wearers feel more comfortable and confident in their choice of lenses. By choosing lenses equipped with these advanced technologies, wearers can experience prolonged comfort, reduced eye fatigue, and a significantly better lens-wearing experience. Maintaining eye comfort is about enhancing vision and ensuring that daily activities can be conducted without discomfort or disruption.

Protecting Your Eyes: Advances in UV Protection and Moisture Retention

In the world of contact lenses, safeguarding the health of your eyes is our foremost priority. Given the increasing awareness about the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays, manufacturers have ingeniously integrated UV-blocking capabilities into contact lenses. This feature assists in shielding your eyes from harmful UV radiation, which can lead to cataracts and other serious eye disorders over time. In addition to UV protection, advancements have been made in moisture retention technologies. The embedding of hydrophilic (water-loving) components in contact lenses helps ensure that your eyes remain hydrated, which is crucial for those who experience dry eyes from contact lens use. These enhancements significantly improve lens wearability and guard against eye health complications, helping you enjoy comfort and clear vision simultaneously.

Practical Tips: Caring for Your Advanced Technology Contact Lenses

Maintaining your advanced technology contact lenses involves straightforward yet essential steps to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. Firstly, always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses to prevent transferring dirt and germs to your eyes. Secondly, make use of a recommended lens solution for cleaning and storing your lenses. Do not use water or saliva; this can harbour harmful bacteria, leading to infections. Additionally, adhere to the wearing schedule prescribed by us – replacing contact lenses on time avoids discomfort and reduces the risk of eye infections. Finally, have regular check-ups with us to ensure that your lenses are in good condition and continue effectively meeting your vision needs. By following these practical tips, you help extend the lifespan of your lenses and maintain your eye health.

Conclusion

Staying updated with the latest innovations in contact lens technology ensures that your vision correction is not only effective but also comfortable and health-focused. At Perspective Optometrists, we are committed to bringing you the latest and most efficient solutions in eye care. Protecting your eyes with advanced UV protection and moisture retention capabilities while providing practical advice on lens care forms the foundation of our service. We believe that good vision plays a critical role in enhancing the overall quality of life, so we invest time and resources in offering you the best optical technology.

If you’re considering new contact lenses or are due for a routine eye examination, remember that we are here to assist with top-tier advice and solutions. Visit Perspective Optometrists today to explore a range of advanced contact lenses designed for your comfort and protection. Let us help you see the world clearly and comfortably, placing your eye health in our safe hands.

contact lens

The Beginner’s Guide to Contact Lenses

Are you considering switching from glasses to contact lenses? If so, you’re likely full of questions and concerns about this significant change in your eyewear journey. With an abundance of options and steps to understand, it can be quite daunting for newcomers. But fret not—Perspective Optometrists is here to guide you through the process.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of contact lenses, touching on various lens types, the fitting process, and essential care tips to help you become an informed and confident contact lens user. Drawing from the wealth of knowledge, you can rest assured that this guide will provide you with the information and support you need to comfortably navigate the world of contact lenses. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together toward a clear vision and newfound freedom.

1. Understanding the Types of Contact Lenses

Before you delve into the world of contact lenses, it’s crucial to understand the various types available and find the most suitable option for your vision needs and lifestyle. The main categories of contact lenses include:

  • Soft Lenses: Made from hydrogel materials that contain water, soft lenses are known for their comfort and flexibility. They are the most popular type of contact lens on the market and accommodate a wide range of prescriptions, including single-vision, multifocal, and astigmatism correction.
  • Silicone Hydrogel Lenses: A more advanced type of soft lens, silicone hydrogel lenses allow more oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They are known for their breathability, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of eye irritation.
  • Gas-permeable (GP) Lenses: Rigid and breathable, GP lenses allow more oxygen to reach the eye than soft lenses. They provide superior visual acuity and can be customised for various vision problems, including astigmatism and presbyopia.
  • Hybrid Lenses: Combining the benefits of both soft and GP lenses, hybrid lenses feature a rigid centre for sharp vision and a soft outer ring for comfort. These lenses cater to those who desire exceptional visual clarity yet struggle to adapt to traditional GP lenses.

2. The Contact Lens Fitting Process

Once you’ve decided on the type of contact lens that best suits your needs, it’s essential to undergo a professional fitting process. The contact lens fitting process consists of several steps:

  • Comprehensive Eye Examination: To ensure your eyes are healthy and suitable for contact lens use, a complete eye examination will be conducted. This exam assesses your overall eye health and determines your prescription for lenses.
  • Contact Lens Evaluation: Your optometrist will measure the shape and size of your cornea, as well as evaluate the tear film on the surface of your eye. These measurements ensure a proper fit and help determine the most suitable lens type for your eyes.
  • Trial Fitting: You’ll be provided with trial contact lenses to test their fit and comfort on your eyes. During this trial period, your optometrist will assess lens movement, centration, and overall fit to confirm the best contact lens option for you.
  • Instruction and Training: If you’re new to contact lenses, you’ll receive detailed guidance on proper lens insertion, removal, and care practices. This essential training lays the foundation for successful contact lens use and reduces the risk of complications.

3. Taking Care of Your Contact Lenses

Proper contact lens care is essential to maintain eye health, avoid infection, and prolong the life of your lenses. The primary care practices are:

  • Hand hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your lenses to minimise the risk of infection.
  • Cleaning and storage: Follow the recommended cleaning and storage procedures for your specific lens type. In general, you should use a lens case and lens solution to clean and store your lenses overnight. Never use water, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms.
  • Replace lenses and cases regularly: Adhere to the replacement schedule recommended by your optometrist, whether daily, weekly, or monthly. Don’t stretch the use of your lenses beyond their intended lifespan. Likewise, replace your lens case every three months to avoid bacterial contamination.

4. Potential Complications and How to Avoid Them

While contact lenses are generally safe and comfortable to use, potential complications can occur if proper care and hygiene measures aren’t followed. Some common complications include:

  • Eye infections: Improper lens handling, storage, or cleaning can lead to the risk of eye infections. Always follow strict hygiene practices when using contact lenses.
  • Corneal abrasions: Ill-fitting lenses or improper lens insertion/removal can scratch the cornea. Ensure your lenses fit correctly, and be gentle when handling them.
  • Dry eyes: Prolonged contact lens use may lead to dry eyes. Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your optometrist and take breaks from lens wear if needed.
  • Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is an allergic reaction to contact lenses, often caused by protein deposits on the lens surface. Regular lens cleaning and replacement can help prevent this condition.

By following expert advice from us, maintaining optimal lens hygiene, attending regular check-ups, and listening to your eyes, you can comfortably and successfully enjoy contact lens wear.

Embrace the Freedom of Contact Lenses with Perspective Optometrists

Making the transition to contact lenses can be a life-changing experience. They provide you with the freedom, convenience, and versatility to enjoy clear vision without the limitations of traditional glasses. By understanding the variety of lens types, mastering the fitting process, and maintaining diligent care practices, you’ll set yourself up for success in the world of contact lenses.

As you embark on your contact lens journey, trust Perspective Optometrists’ expertise and support to guide you every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today for contact lenses in London, and embrace the newfound freedom and confidence that comes with your ideal lenses tailored to your unique vision needs.