What is the difference between an eye exam for glasses in an exam for contacts?

Maintaining excellent vision and eye health requires both an eye exam for glasses and an eye exam for contacts, but they differ slightly in terms of the precise tests and processes required. The key distinctions between the two kinds of exams are described in detail below:

Determining the patient’s accurate eyeglass prescription is the main goal of an eye test for glasses. On the other hand, a contact lens eye exam aims to determine the patient’s ideal contact lens prescription and fit.

Tests and procedures: During an eye exam for glasses, a number of tests are typically performed to gauge visual acuity, look for refractive problems, and gauge the eye’s general health. These examinations could involve an eye muscle test, a visual field test, a refraction test, and a visual acuity test. Contrarily, an eye exam for contacts includes all of the same tests as an eye exam for glasses, as well as additional tests to measure the cornea’s curvature and assess the patient’s eyes’ health and appropriateness for contact lens wear.

Duration: Depending on the precise tests and processes involved, an eye exam for glasses normally takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete, but an eye exam for contacts could take longer.

According to their age and general health, adults should typically get an eye checkup for glasses every one to two years. It is usually advised to get an eye checkup for contacts once a year, or more frequently if the patient notices any changes in their vision or eye health.

Cost: Depending on the location, the precise tests and treatments being carried out, and the patient’s insurance coverage, the price of an eye exam for glasses and an eye exam for contacts can change. Due to the additional tests and procedures required, an eye exam for contacts may often cost more than an eye check for glasses.

In conclusion, although an eye exam for contacts requires a more thorough assessment of the patient’s vision and eye health to determine the proper contact lens prescription and fit, an eye exam for glasses is largely focused on determining the suitable eyeglass prescription for the patient. Both types of exams are crucial for preserving eye health and good vision, and it’s crucial to get them often to make sure that any vision issues are identified and dealt with right away.