You have your prescription for eyeglasses and are ready to try contact lenses. It seems simple enough to use the same prescription for both, right? It’s important to know the 2 are not interchangeable.
Your eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions are actually quite different. This is because of where they sit in relation to your eye, and contacts require extra measurements to make sure they fit your unique eye shape for clear vision and comfort.
Why Your Prescriptions Are Different
The main reason for the difference comes down to one simple thing—distance. Think about where your glasses sit on your face compared to where a contact lens rests directly on your eye.
This small gap changes how the lens power needs to be calculated to help you see clearly. The power often needs an adjustment because contacts sit right on your eye’s surface, a distinction that a comprehensive eye exam clarifies.
- Eyeglasses sit about 12 millimetres away from your eyes.
- Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eyes.
Extra Measurements for Contact Lenses
A contact lens prescription includes more details than just your vision correction. It has specific measurements to make sure the lens fits your eye’s unique shape for both comfort and health.
Base Curve and Diameter
These numbers are all about getting the right fit. The base curve, or BC, matches the lens curvature to your cornea. The diameter, or DIA, is the width of the lens, making sure it covers the correct parts of your eye.
Lens Material and Brand
Not all contact lenses are made from the same material. Different materials can affect how much oxygen reaches your eyes and how hydrated your lenses feel throughout the day, which is a key part of safe contact lens wear. Your prescription will name a specific brand of lenses that is a good match for your eyes and lifestyle.
The Importance of a Contact Lens Fitting
If you’re trying contacts for the first time or switching to a new kind, you need a special fitting appointment. This appointment goes beyond a standard eye exam to make sure your lenses are safe, comfortable, and provide you with clear vision.
During a fitting, an eye doctor can perform a detailed assessment. This helps to:
- Check that your eyes are healthy enough for contact lens wear.
- Make sure the lenses fit your eyes correctly without causing irritation.
- Teach you how to properly insert, remove, and care for your new lenses.
Can You Convert Your Own Prescription?
You might find tools online that claim they can convert your glasses prescription for contacts. It is important to avoid using these. They simply cannot perform the essential measurements of your eye’s unique shape and size.
An ill-fitting lens can feel uncomfortable, and it may even lead to eye health issues down the road. A proper fitting is key to a positive experience with contact lenses.
Get Clear and Comfortable Vision
Are you ready to see if contact lenses are a good fit for you? Your journey starts with a conversation and a proper exam. Our team is here to help you find a comfortable solution that works with your lifestyle.
Schedule a Contact Lens Exam
The first step is a dedicated exam and fitting. A professional assessment can help you find success with contact lenses.
Discuss Your Lifestyle Needs
Do you need lenses for sports, for special occasions, or for every day? Talking about your daily activities helps determine if daily disposables, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses are the right choice for you.
Explore Contact Lenses Today
Your eyes and vision are precious. At Vivid Eye Care, our team is experienced, motivated, and equipped with technology that can help answer all your eye care questions. Book your contact lens exam and fitting to explore your options for clear, comfortable vision.
