Contact Lens Exam

For many people in Fort Wayne, IN, contact lenses provide a convenient alternative to glasses, offering clear vision without the frames. However, getting the right contact lenses is about more than just correcting vision—it’s about ensuring a comfortable, healthy fit that suits your eyes and lifestyle. At University Park Vision Center, Dr. Amy Reidhaar and her team take a personalized approach to contact lens fittings. Whether you’re new to contacts or have worn them for years but struggle with dryness or discomfort, our thorough contact lens exam and fitting process is designed to find the best solution for your unique needs.

What Is a Contact Lens Exam?

A contact lens exam is more than just a prescription update—it is a thorough evaluation to determine the best lenses for your eyes. Not all eyes are the same, and factors like corneal shape, tear film quality, and eye health play a crucial role in selecting the right fit.

Comprehensive Eye Health Evaluation

Before determining your contact lens prescription, Dr. Reidhaar conducts a full eye health assessment. This step is critical in detecting any underlying conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, allergies, or corneal irregularities, that may affect your ability to wear contacts comfortably.

Some conditions that might require specialized lenses include:

• Astigmatism – May require toric lenses for precise correction

• Presbyopia – Multifocal lenses or monovision options for reading and distance clarity

• Keratoconus or Corneal Irregularities – May need scleral or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses for stability

This evaluation ensures that your eyes are healthy enough for contacts and that we select the right type of lenses for your unique needs.

Precise Corneal Measurements

A one-size-fits-all approach does not work for contact lenses. Your cornea—the clear front surface of your eye—has a unique curvature, size, and shape. Using advanced diagnostic technology, Dr. Reidhaar takes precise corneal measurements to ensure that your lenses:

• Fit securely without excessive movement

• Allow for proper oxygen flow to the eye

• Provide sharp, stable vision throughout the day

Tear Film Analysis

If you have ever put in contact lenses and felt dryness, irritation, or a foreign body sensation, your tear film might be to blame. Your eyes naturally produce tears to keep lenses hydrated, but if your tear quality is poor, contacts can quickly become uncomfortable. During your exam, we assess your tear production and quality to determine if additional solutions—such as moisture-retaining lenses or lubricating eye drops—are necessary. Patients in Fort Wayne who struggle with dry winters or allergy season often benefit from this extra step.

The Contact Lens Fitting Process

Once we determine the right type of contact lenses for your eyes, we move on to the fitting process, where you will get a chance to test different lenses.

During this stage:

• We select trial lenses based on your prescription, corneal measurements, and lifestyle needs.

• You try on the lenses in-office to assess the immediate fit and feel.

• Dr. Reidhaar evaluates how well the lenses settle on your eyes, checking for proper movement and clarity.

This trial period is crucial because even slight adjustments in lens design or material can make a big difference in comfort and vision.

Education on Lens Care and Wear

Wearing contact lenses is not just about putting them in and taking them out. Proper care is essential for eye health and long-term success. At University Park Vision Center, we take the time to educate you on:

• How to properly insert and remove your lenses

• Cleaning and storage techniques to prevent infections

• The importance of replacing lenses on schedule

• Recognizing signs of irritation or poor fit

If you have struggled with lens discomfort in the past, sometimes it is a matter of switching to a different material or brand, and our team is here to help you find the best match.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Fitting at University Park Vision Center Today

Dr. Amy Reidhaar takes the time to personalize your experience, ensuring you walk away with lenses that feel natural and provide comfortable, clear vision. If you are in Fort Wayne or surrounding areas, schedule your appointment with University Park Vision Center today.