Contact lens fittings are one of those procedures that sounds more complex or intimidating than it actually is. The vast majority of patients who come to Prime Optometrists Auburn for a first contact lens fitting walk out the same day with trial lenses and a clear understanding of how to use them. Here is exactly what the process involves.
Step 1: Ocular Health and Glasses Assessment
Before fitting any contact lenses, Dr Tahiri performs or reviews a comprehensive eye examination. This confirms your glasses prescription (the starting point for a contact lens prescription), checks for any ocular health conditions that might affect lens wear (dry eye, blepharitis, abnormal corneal shape), and establishes baseline measurements.
Step 2: Corneal Measurements
Contact lens prescriptions include two additional measurements beyond the glasses prescription: the base curve (the curvature of the back surface of the lens, which must match the corneal curvature) and the diameter (the size of the lens). These are measured with a keratometer or topographer. The process is completely non-contact and takes about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Trial Lens Selection and Application
Based on your prescription and corneal measurements, Dr Tahiri selects appropriate trial lenses. She then demonstrates lens insertion technique, and helps you insert the trial lenses for the first time. Most people find insertion awkward on the first attempt,this is completely normal. By the end of the appointment, the majority of patients can insert and remove lenses confidently.
Step 4: Assessment on the Slit Lamp
Once the trial lenses are in, Dr Tahiri assesses fit on the slit lamp: centration (is the lens sitting over the pupil?), movement (does it move appropriately with each blink?), and coverage (does it fully cover the cornea?). Vision is also checked with the trial lenses to confirm the prescription is working correctly.
Step 5: Insertion and Removal Training
Before leaving, you are given time to practice inserting and removing the lenses until you feel confident. Detailed instructions on wear time, care routine, and when to seek help are provided.
Step 6: Follow-Up Appointment
A follow-up after 1–2 weeks of trial wear allows Dr Tahiri to assess how the lenses are wearing over time: is the eye surface healthy, are the lenses comfortable, and is the prescription still correct in the lens modality?
Book a contact lens fitting at Prime Optometrists Auburn
Dr Tahiri fits all lens types including scleral and specialty lenses. (02) 9761 0005 · 43 Auburn Rd Auburn NSW 2144