08/13/2025
👀 Contact Lenses: What You Need to Know
At Colonial Family Eyecare, we want our patients to enjoy the freedom and clarity that contact lenses provide — safely and comfortably! Here’s why certain contact lens rules and annual evaluations are so important.
📌 Why Are Contact Lenses Considered Elective?
While contact lenses correct your vision just like glasses, they’re considered an elective medical device because they rest directly on your eyes and require special fitting, materials, and ongoing care. Glasses can be prescribed and worn without additional risk of infection or damage to the cornea — contact lenses, on the other hand, need extra attention to ensure they’re safe for your unique eyes.
📅 Why You Need a Contact Lens Evaluation Every Year
Your eyes can change more than you realize in a single year. A contact lens evaluation allows us to:
Check corneal health for early signs of irritation, dryness, or infection.
Update your prescription for the clearest vision possible.
Assess lens fit to ensure your contacts still align properly with your eyes.
Review your wearing habits and hygiene routine to prevent complications.
This evaluation isn’t just an “extra exam” — it’s a medical check-up for the health and safety of your eyes while wearing lenses.
🧼 Why Hygiene & Compliance Are Critical
Contact lenses are safe only if worn, cleaned, and stored properly. Poor hygiene or overwear can lead to serious infections, corneal ulcers, and even vision loss.
Always wash and dry your hands before handling contacts.
Replace your lenses and cases as directed.
Never sleep in your lenses unless approved by your doctor.
Use only recommended solutions — never tap water!
Your eyes are priceless — taking care of your contacts means taking care of your vision.