Interested in contacts? Having trouble with the contacts that you already wear? At The Eye Doctors, we strive to meet all of your eye and vision care needs. Contact lenses require a prescription because they are medical devices. Contact lenses not accurately prescribed and properly fitted could result in discomfort and injury to your eyes. Anyone wishing to use contact lenses must have an annual contact lens evaluation in addition to his or her comprehensive vision screening to renew the prescription. At your appointment, our doctors will discuss a variety of contact lens options with you to select the type of lenses that best fits your vision needs and lifestyle.

Contact Lens Evaluation

Prior to prescribing contact lenses, our doctors determine what level of vision correction you require, by completing a routine vision exam. Refractive error (commonly known as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism depending on the error) is evaluated by measuring how the eyes focus when a series of different lenses are placed in front of them. An optometrist may use either a phoropter or an automated instrument to take these measurements. To schedule an appointment for a routine vision exam and contact lens evaluation with one of our optometrists, call (605) 338-7104 today.

Corrective Lenses

After determining the level of refractive error, our doctors work with you to determine whether contact lenses or glasses are best for your lifestyle. If you suffer from certain conditions, such as dry eye or allergies, glasses may be the most comfortable corrective solution. Contact lenses are available in either soft or rigid gas permeable materials. Contact lenses need to be changed daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on what type of lens you select. Specialized contact lenses, such as bifocal contact lenses, are also available for patients with special eye conditions.

Cosmetic Lenses

Cosmetic lenses are also available to transform your eye color or to accentuate your limbal ring. Custom contact lenses can be created to camouflage any color variation or irregularity and produce a natural eye color. Advances in contact lens technology have created great options for cosmetic and prosthetic lenses. Call us at (605) 338-7104 and speak to our knowledgeable staff if you are interested in modifying or changing your eye color with contact lenses.

Insertion and Removal

We offer a Contact Lens Insertion and Removal Training Class for first time wearers or wearers who may need a refresher course, to ensure that they understand how to properly insert and remove contact lenses, how best to clean and store your contacts, and what to look for in case you develop complications. The optician-guided training course usually lasts between 30-60 minutes, during which time you must successfully demonstrate that you can insert and remove the contact lenses without assistance. Occasionally a second visit is required. Contact lenses will not be dispensed until Insertion and Removal Class has been completed.