Personalized Lens Selection and Evaluation

Contact Lens Exams and Fittings in Santa Clara

A contact lens fitting is more than a glasses prescription. It includes an eye-health assessment, vision testing, measurements of the cornea and eye surface, evaluation of trial lenses, wear and care instruction, and follow-up when needed.
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What does a contact lens fitting include?

Your optometrist considers your current vision, eye health, comfort, daily activities, previous lens experience, and how often you expect to wear contacts. Testing and lens selection are tailored to your eyes and needs. A fitting may include:
  • Eye, medical, medication, and contact lens history
  • Vision and contact lens prescription testing
  • Corneal curvature and eye-surface measurements
  • Tear-film and comfort evaluation
  • Trial-lens position, movement, and vision assessment
  • Insertion, removal, wear, replacement, and care guidance

What happens after trial lenses are selected?

A trial lens is evaluated on the eye for vision, comfort, position, and movement. You may be asked to wear trial lenses before a follow-up visit so the optometrist can examine your eyes after real-world use. The lens design, power, or care plan may be adjusted before the fitting is complete. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration explains that a contact lens prescription is provided after the fitting process is complete.

Common contact lens fitting questions

Is this different from an eye exam for glasses?

Yes. In addition to evaluating eye health and prescription needs, a contact lens fitting uses specialized measurements and trial lenses to assess vision, comfort, lens position, and movement on the eye.

What should I bring?

Bring your current glasses, contact lenses, lens boxes or prescription if available, cases and solutions you use, a medication list, and details about any comfort or vision concerns.

Why might I need a follow-up?

A follow-up lets the optometrist assess vision, comfort, lens position and movement, and the eye surface after you have worn the trial lenses. The lens, prescription, or care plan may then be adjusted.

Do colored lenses require a prescription and fitting?

Yes. All contact lenses, including decorative or colored lenses, are prescription medical devices. A valid prescription, proper fit, and care instructions help reduce the risk of eye injury or infection.

When should a contact lens wearer seek prompt care?

Remove the lenses and contact an eye-care professional

If you develop eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, sudden blurry vision, or unusual discharge, remove your contact lenses and contact an eye-care professional promptly. Do not rely on email or an online form for an urgent eye problem.

Related contact lens information

Contact lens types

Review lens materials, wear schedules, and replacement approaches.

Safe wear and care

Learn about contact lens hygiene, follow-up, and possible complications.

Sources and review status

This patient education page was reviewed against contact lens fitting and safety information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and prescription guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on September 2, 2026. It provides general information and does not replace an individualized examination or medical advice.