Optimizing Contact Lens Wear

Contact lenses are integral to many optometry practices, and as such, optometrists must be well-versed in not only selecting the most appropriate lens for their patients, but also optimizing the overall wearing experience. Therefore, achieving a successful contact lens outcome depends heavily on the skill, knowledge, and expertise of the optometrist in managing various aspects of contact lens fitting and patient education.

SECRETS OF CONTACT LENS FITTING

Different types of soft contact lenses offer distinct benefits, but selecting the optimal lens type requires a thorough understanding of how each interacts with an individual’s ocular anatomy. A poor fit can lead to discomfort, corneal complications, and, ultimately, dropout.

As the primary point of contact for patients’ vision care, optometrists are responsible for educating them about proper lens hygiene, wear schedules, and potential risks. Patient education is vital in preventing many common causes of discomfort and lens failure. Managing these issues proactively is critical not only for patient comfort, but also for ensuring long-term success in contact lens wear.

The EMPOWER: Business + Specialty Care Optometric Series is meant to inspire optometrists with advanced knowledge and tools to elevate their practice and patient care. Topics range from corneal health and specialty lenses to soft contact lens wear and patient communication to cornea health diagnostic tools and practice optimization. In each part of the series, two thought leaders break down the featured topic into two subtopics. As a complement to this series, the authors will also appear on an episode of The MOD Pod to discuss their topics in more detail.

OPTIMIZE THE EXPERIENCE

Part two of this five-part business and specialty care optometric series focuses on optimizing the contact lens experience. In it, Ashley Tucker, OD, FAAO, FSLS, Dipl ABO, focuses on choosing the right lens and finding the best fit. She also shares strategies for improving comfort and managing dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction. Jessica O. Yu, OD, FAAO, FSLS, offers guidance for preventing contact lens dropout and complications, including advice on preventing lens-related problems such as allergies, lens deposits, and discomfort.

We hope the information and insights contained here empower you with new knowledge to improve both your practice and patient care.