Contact lenses rest on your cornea — a sensitive, transparent layer that plays a major role in clear vision. Any slight change to the shape of your eye, tear film, or eyelid pressure can impact how a lens fits. And a poor fit doesn’t just feel uncomfortable — it can damage the eye’s surface over time. Corneal scratches, inflammation, or even ulcers can occur when lenses aren’t sitting properly.
Skipping your contact lens exam also means you might miss signs of chronic dryness. Dry eye symptoms can sneak up slowly, especially for contact lens wearers. What starts as occasional discomfort could be a sign that your eyes are no longer tolerating your lenses as well as they used to. Without an exam, these warning signs often go unnoticed — until they become something more serious.
A Wrong Fit Isn’t Just Uncomfortable — It’s Dangerous
When a contact lens doesn’t fit correctly, it creates friction. That friction can lead to corneal neovascularization, where blood vessels start growing into the cornea due to lack of oxygen. It’s your eye’s way of compensating, but it’s also a sign of trouble — and a major red flag that only an optometrist can catch during a proper lens evaluation.
The Annual Lens Exam: It’s About More Than Just Updating a Prescription
Even if you feel like your vision hasn’t changed, your eyes definitely have. A contact lens exam checks more than just how well you see. It evaluates how healthy your eyes are and whether your current lenses are still the best option for your vision, comfort, and long-term eye health.
During your exam, your optometrist will:
- Inspect the surface of your cornea for microscopic damage
- Measure how well your lenses are hydrating your eyes
- Test for signs of infection or allergic reactions
- Ensure your current lenses still fit your eye shape and size
- Discuss any discomfort you’ve been experiencing — even mild symptoms matter
In other words, a contact lens exam protects your eyes from complications you might not even know are developing. And if you’re trying new lens types or brands — such as daily disposables or toric lenses for astigmatism — an updated fitting is non-negotiable.
When Small Problems Turn Into Big Ones
Some of the most serious contact lens complications don’t start with dramatic symptoms. A bit of dryness. A touch of redness. Maybe you find yourself blinking more. These things are easy to brush off — until they aren’t.
Wearing contacts too long, sleeping in them, or using expired lenses can worsen even minor issues. If you don’t have an updated contact lens prescription, you’re more likely to miss these early warning signs. Worse still, if you develop an eye infection, continuing to wear contacts could delay healing or cause permanent damage to your vision.
Contact Lens Exams in Chandler
At Wagner EyeCare Associates, your eye health is our top priority. Whether you're new to contact lenses or have worn them for years, we’re here to make sure your vision stays clear and your eyes stay healthy. Our experienced team offers personalized contact lens exams to ensure the right fit and the safest wear possible.
Ready to protect your vision? Call or make an appointment today to keep your eyes safe, comfortable, and crystal clear.