contact lenses

CanOWorms

Lifer
Jul 3, 2001
12,404
2
0
Sometimes it takes several appointments to have the correct fitting contacts, so you should go to an optometrist that you are comfortable with.

However, if you're buying them, you can get them cheaper and faster online.
 

jumpr

Golden Member
Jan 2, 2006
1,045
5
81
Have you already had an exam? Do you have a prescription card? If you do, you can go anywhere. All contact lenses are made in a factory by a big contact lens company (B&L, Ciba, etc.) and hermetically sealed until you open them after purchase.

However, if you haven't had an exam yet, it might be worth it to make an appointment at a local ophthalmologist for an exam, as he or she will probably be much more thorough. Contacts can do some weird stuff to your eyes, so it makes sense to ensure your eyes are healthy before getting them.
 

Gibson486

Lifer
Aug 9, 2000
18,378
2
0
Originally posted by: jumpr
Have you already had an exam? Do you have a prescription card? If you do, you can go anywhere. All contact lenses are made in a factory by a big contact lens company (B&L, Ciba, etc.) and hermetically sealed until you open them after purchase.

However, if you haven't had an exam yet, it might be worth it to make an appointment at a local ophthalmologist for an exam, as he or she will probably be much more thorough. Contacts can do some weird stuff to your eyes, so it makes sense to ensure your eyes are healthy before getting them.

Does it matter where I get the appointment?
 

jumpr

Golden Member
Jan 2, 2006
1,045
5
81
Originally posted by: Gibson486
Originally posted by: jumpr
Have you already had an exam? Do you have a prescription card? If you do, you can go anywhere. All contact lenses are made in a factory by a big contact lens company (B&L, Ciba, etc.) and hermetically sealed until you open them after purchase.

However, if you haven't had an exam yet, it might be worth it to make an appointment at a local ophthalmologist for an exam, as he or she will probably be much more thorough. Contacts can do some weird stuff to your eyes, so it makes sense to ensure your eyes are healthy before getting them.

Does it matter where I get the appointment?
I wouldn't make it at Wal-Mart, if that's what you're asking. Do you have vision coverage on your health insurance, or is this all coming out of pocket?
 

cjmtfd102401

Senior member
Feb 11, 2006
502
0
0
The best place would be a local doctor, they are more likely to spend more time with you. Places like Wal-mart and Lens Crafters don't time with their patients and you may not be getting the best product you need. When we have a new patient that has never worn contacts we see them at least 4-6 times to make sure the brand, base curve, diameter, and strength of the contact is right for them.