Can I Wear Contact Lenses?

Wear contact lenses to correct vision. Can I wear contact lenses?

Contact lenses are a great solution for glasses wearers who find that glasses aren’t always practical for their lifestyle, yet Australia has one of the lowest rates of contact lens wear in the Western world.

Can I wear contact lenses?

Almost everyone who needs vision correction is suitable for contact lenses.

However, there are some exceptions, which we have listed below:

• Dry eye - people who suffer from dry eye may not be suitable for contact lenses as they can cause irritation
• Frequent eye infections
• Dirty/dusty environments - if you regularly work in dusty environments, contact lenses may not be suitable as they can be hard to keep clean and can become easily irritated.
• People with diabetes may not be suitable

Some conditions, such as keratoconus, can make it quite hard to fit contact lenses but it is still possible. Speak to your optometrist for more information about your suitability.

Are contact lenses the right choice for me?

Even if you are able to wear contact lenses, they may not be suitable for your lifestyle. Your optometrist will discuss with you how to look after your contact lenses, which can be more time consuming than caring for your glasses. It is essential that you are willing to adhere to the guidelines for wear, cleansing and maintenance of contact lenses, otherwise you can put yourself at risk of an eye infection.

You will also need to be willing to put up with an initial period of adjustment when you first get your contact lenses. It can take a while to get used to them if you’ve never worn them before.

The cost is also a factor to consider - can you afford the ongoing costs associated with contact lenses?

How do I get contact lenses?

If you would like to get contact lenses you will need to meet with your Toowoomba optometrist for a contact lens consultation where they can assess your needs and suitability. If you can wear contact lenses they will do a fitting for you and order in your new lenses.

Whether or not you wear contact lenses you should visit your Toowoomba optometrist at least every two years for a comprehensive eye exam.