(603) 356-3000

North Conway, NH 03860-5155

(603) 752-3510

Berlin, NH 03570-2431

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can be a great alternative to glasses for many patients.  Many people wear contact lenses every day, while others might wear contact lenses only for certain activities or occasions.  Whether you are considering contact lenses for the first time or whether you are already wearing contact lenses, be sure to tell us when scheduling your appointment, so that your doctor can allow sufficient time to discuss contact lenses with you. 

Contact lenses are an FDA-regulated prescription medical device.  Contact lenses can provide freedom from glasses, but because they are in contact with the eye, contact lenses also have the potential to alter the ocular surface and cause harm, if not fit and worn properly.  Our doctors love fitting our patients into contact lenses, but it is always done with the greatest care for the health of the eyes.

New Contact Lens Wearers

If you are interested in trying contact lenses for the first time, your doctor will discuss contact lenses with you during your comprehensive eye exam.  If you and your doctor determine that you are a good candidate for contact lenses, then your doctor will review with you the types of contact lenses available, as well as the contact lens fitting process.  For new contact lens wearers, the initial fitting may need to be done on a separate day from your comprehensive exam, especially if you are being dilated.  At your initial fitting , your doctor will choose the appropriate contact lens material, design, size and wear schedule.  You will also be trained on proper care and handling of contact lenses.  A follow-up visit will ensure that the contact lenses are continuing to fit and feel well, and that they are providing the best vision possible. At the conclusion of the fitting process, you will be given a prescription for contact lenses that is valid for up to 1 year.

Existing Contact Lens Wearers

Even if you have worn contact lenses successfully for years, our eyes change over time.  Contact lenses can even cause our eyes to change.  This is why a contact lens prescription expires every year and why a contact lens evaluation is needed every year to renew the prescription.  Plus, contact lens technology is always improving, with more healthy, comfortable, and affordable options than ever, so your doctor will discuss these options with you at your contact lens evaluation. If your current contact lenses are working well and minimal changes are needed, your doctor may give you your updated contact lens prescription during your comprehensive exam.  However, if your doctor is refitting you into alternative contact lenses, then additional follow-up visits may be required before you receive your prescription.