How to Evaluate a Contact Lens Fit

Contact lenses are individually designed to fit on the front surface of the cornea, the clear outer membrane of the eye. An eye doctor verifies that lenses are fitting correctly after they have been worn for a period of time, usually one or two weeks. During a contact lens follow-up appointment, a slit lamp, also called a biomicroscope, is used to evaluate the fit of contact lenses.

Things You'll Need

• Slit lamp
• Pen light

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Instructions

• 1

  Place the contact lens wearer's chin in the chin holder of the slit lamp. Have him look straight ahead as you look through the eyepiece and observe his eye and lens under magnification.

• 2

  Ask the patient to blink. Observe the amount of tears, whether the eye appears dry or lubricated, and note any debris under the lens or in the eye.

• 3

  Check lashes and lids, inside and out, for any signs of redness, infection, or irritation.

• 4

  Evaluate the surface of the cornea. Look for any unusual blood vessels, cysts or irregularities. Check cell size, pigment and surface for any signs of damage.

• 5

  Have the patient blink again. Note movement, centering, location, and tightness of lens.