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Contact Lens Frequently Asked Questions ("FAQs")

How much are contact lenses?

Contact lens prices vary depending on the prescription type, lens type and replacement schedule. For part-time wearers, the cost can be as low as $40 per year to as high as $700 per year for full time wearers with a unique prescription. Your doctor can tell which lenses would be better for you after your examination and provide the right price range.

Why is the fitting fee so high?

Fitting fees will vary depending on the patient's previous contact lens experience and the type of lens that needs to be fit. The fee is usually set according to how much time will be necessary to get successful contact lens performance. This is similar to someone who is learning how to drive-a new driver will need more time and lessons compared to someone who is upgrading their current skills.

What does the fitting fee cover?

The contact lens fitting fee includes providing trial contact lenses, initial contact lens solutions, a training session that includes insertion/removal, proper cleaning procedures and do's and don'ts with the lenses. One to two re-checks are also included to make sure your contact lenses are working properly.

Why are your contact lenses more expensive than at Costco, Wal-Mart, online, etc.?

We have found that there is little variation in contact lens prices when all factors are considered. Some retail and online suppliers have membership fees, extra evaluation fees and shipping costs added to their lenses. We also have access to exclusive manufacturer's rebates that will lower your overall cost. As well, retail suppliers do not carry all brands of lenses.

In certain cases, we have been able to replace torn or defective lenses or exchange lenses for prescription changes. Retail and online suppliers do not provide this service.

Can't I just wear any contact lens? Aren't they all the same?

As any person who has had problems with their contact lenses will tell you, all contacts are not the same, just like not all shoes will fit you even if it says it's the right size.

Contact lens performance and success is very individual, like that proper shoe fitting. The wrong contact lens will cause poor vision, discomfort and potentially unhealthy eyes.

Your doctor will assess your eye health and prescription, day to day vision needs and environment to find the right lens for you.

When should I replace my contact lenses? Can a 2 week lens be worn for 1 month?

Your doctor will recommend the proper replacement schedule for you based on your wearing time, environment and eye health. Usually this is determined during your trial period where we get to see how your eyes and the lenses are reacting in your real world. A replacement schedule may be longer or shorter than what was expected.

Do I need to rub my lenses? The solution bottle says no rub

Our doctors recommend a gentle, daily rub of both sides of your lenses with your contact lens solution. This is usually done when you take out your lenses each day. While we all do not expect the lenses to get really dirty, deposits may have gotten on the lens during the day-mostly from your tears or external environment (dust, dirt, make-up, smoke, etc.). These deposits can affect vision and comfort.

Can I sleep with my contact lenses in?

Unless your doctor has fit you with lenses that are approved for sleeping or overnight wear, the answer is no. This is due to oxygen restrictions to the eye during sleep. Not enough oxygen can cause serious eye health problems.

Lenses that are approved for sleeping deliver much more oxygen to the eye during sleep periods. Ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for these lenses.

What kind of solution should I use with my contact lenses?

Your doctor will recommend the best solution to use with your lenses based on the type of lenses you are wearing and the health of your eyes. Using the wrong solution may not clean and disinfect your lenses properly and could be harmful to the health of your eyes.

Should I use drops with my contact lenses? Which drops are the best?

Your doctor may recommend drops when you are wearing your contacts lenses to clean or wet your lenses. If you are not sure, ask your doctor if these drops are necessary for you.