Some people prefer to wear contact lenses instead of glasses. Contacts have come a long way since they were invented, and now, there are many options for a variety of vision problems, including astigmatism. If you are considering contact lenses to correct your vision, it’s normal to have questions about their care and your eye health. Our eye team answered some of the most common questions from our patients:
No. Your optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye examination that evaluates your vision and overall eye health. Then, if you are interested in contact lenses as an alternative to glasses, there are additional tests necessary to determine whether you are a good candidate for contacts. Much like shirts and sandals, contacts are not one size fits all. The eye doctor will evaluate your corneal curvature, the size of your pupil and iris and assess your tear film — a protective coating of tears that spreads like a film over the front of your eyes. One of the most common problems with contact lens wearing is dry eyes, so we need to confirm your tear film is sufficient.
Contact lenses come in two forms: hard and soft. Hard lenses hold their shape while allowing oxygen through the lens. The most common hard lenses are rigid, gas permeable lenses (RPG). These may be preferable if you have allergies or for severe astigmatism. (Also talk to us about vision shaping, a way to wear contacts at night to change your vision.)
Soft lenses are by far the top choice of contact lens wearers; they are more comfortable to wear and easily stay in place. Soft contact lenses come in many varieties:
Frequency of Wear
Correction Types
Because contact lenses sit directly on your eye, your peripheral vision is unobstructed. Many contact lens wearers feel freer to participate in sports and outdoor activities without fear of breaking their glasses. People with contacts can also buy sunglasses from anywhere instead of ordering a pair with a prescription. This cuts down on the fear of losing your sunglasses, too!
And of course, some people prefer the look of their face without glasses, even with the fantastic frame selection available today.
If you and your optometrist decide contact lenses are a good option for you, your doctor will fit you with a trial pair. You probably will require a follow-up appointment or two to make sure you have adjusted to the new lenses.
Most people can safely wear contact lenses as long as they are properly cleaned and maintained. Talk to the team at The Eye Institute about your options for contacts.
Excellent service, doctor and front desk staff. Also an excellent and very stylish selection of eyewear for the entire family.
I highly recommend!
I left feeling as if I was valued, and that my money was being well spent on something I wanted to spend it on — not something I felt pressured into thinking I needed. The eye exam was by far one of the most involved and well explained I have ever experienced. I was pleasantly surprised the that the Dr. was present the whole time, my questions were answered with thought and not once did I get the standard, "I would not be too concerned " response. It was always a clear interest to make sure I was understanding the technical as well as the results of his answer.
After many many years here...I am still happy to have my annual exam, glasses, contact lenses, and other services for my family here. LOVE this place and the atmosphere with knowledgeable and friendly staff. I highly recommend!
TEI's team has always been courteous, friendly, and calls about the exam. I've been going for years to one in Knightdale, NC and would not switch unless they close which, hopefully, they never will!
I had been coming here for years and I’m always greeted by friendly staff! They know most of my family and remember our life stories when we come. It never feels like I’m the eye doctor, it feels like family.
I loved everyone at the Eye Institute. I got in pretty quick, they were very thorough and everyone had a great attitude. Thanks, Eye Institute!!
Dr. Chad Morgan has provided me with proactive, strategic care and exceptional long-term advice about my eye care for more than 5 years. I trust him completely and know he has a full understanding of my health and the new treatment options for my care. I simply wouldn't entrust my eyes to anyone else!
Good customer service. Tiffany was very helpful in helping me pick out my new eyewear. Dr. Chad is friendly and proactive...I appreciate both!
Thank you for visiting GoodLooks. We’re now part of The Eye Institute family. You can still visit us in the same North Raleigh location or check out one of our other two offices in Raleigh or Knightdale. Learn more on the “Locations” page on our website.
We look forward to seeing you again soon!