Can Skipping My Contact Lens Exam End Up Costing Me More?

If you wear contact lenses, it might seem harmless to skip your annual contact lens exam - especially if your vision feels fine and your prescription hasn’t changed. But what many patients don’t realize is that contact lens exams are about much more than simply updating a prescription. Skipping them can lead to hidden eye health problems, discomfort, and even higher costs in the long run.

The Importance of Annual Contact Lens Exams

A contact lens exam is specifically focused on how your lenses interact with your eyes. Even if your prescription hasn’t changed, your eyes can experience subtle changes from year to year that can affect your comfort and overall eye health.

During your exam, our doctor carefully evaluates the health of your cornea and the amount of oxygen reaching it. Contact lenses naturally limit oxygen flow, which, over time, can lead to swelling, irritation, or even damage if left unchecked. These early signs are often invisible to the patient but can be detected during an in-person evaluation.

We also check for signs of dry eye or contact lens intolerance. Even lenses that feel fine now can become uncomfortable as your tear film changes or your eyes begin to show early signs of dryness. Identifying these changes early allows us to recommend solutions that keep your lenses comfortable and safe to wear.

Another important part of your exam is ensuring your lenses fit properly. A poorly fitting lens can rub against your eye, cause redness, or increase your risk for corneal abrasions and infections. A proper fit is crucial to maintaining long-term eye health.

Finally, your annual visit is the perfect opportunity to explore the latest contact lens technology. Lens materials and designs continue to improve, offering better comfort, moisture retention, and visual clarity than ever before. By keeping up with advancements, we can recommend options that enhance your everyday lens-wearing experience.

The Hidden Risks of Skipping Your Contact Lens Exam

When you choose to forgo your annual exam, you may think you’re saving time or money. In reality, you’re increasing your risk for:

• Corneal Infections or Ulcers: Without proper monitoring, oxygen deprivation or poor lens hygiene can lead to infections that require urgent treatment.

• Uncomfortable, Dry, or Irritated Eyes: Changes in your eye surface or tear film can make contacts increasingly difficult to wear.

• Higher Costs in the Future: Treating complications or switching to specialty lenses later can be far more expensive than a simple yearly exam.

Why Online Eye Exams Can’t Replace a Professional Visit

Online contact lens renewals may seem convenient, but these quick tests can’t spot early signs of corneal stress or oxygen deprivation, detect dry eye disease or contact lens intolerance, or ensure that your lenses are fitting safely and comfortably. Depending solely on an online exam leaves hidden issues unchecked, which can eventually compromise both your vision and your day-to-day comfort.

Prioritize Your Eye Health with Iris Bright Optometry

Your eyes deserve more than a quick online exam or a skipped visit. Contact lens exams are the key to protecting your vision, avoiding preventable complications, and enjoying lenses that feel and perform their best.

Schedule your annual contact lens exam with Iris Bright Optometry and keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear. Contact either of our offices in Irvine, CA at (949) 585-9403 or in El Cajon, CA at (619) 447-8494 to book an appointment today. We accept most vision insurance.