Contact Lens FAQ

Why do I need a prescription for contact lenses?

A contact lens prescription is specifically tailored to your eye shape and vision needs. Eyes vary in size and shape. Only an eye care practitioner can properly measure your need for vision correction as well as determine which size and type of contact lens is the right fit for you.

Changes to your vision and eye health can occur over time. These changes can be detected with specialised equipment and procedures.

 

Is my contact lens prescription different to the prescription for my glasses?

Yes. A prescription for contact lenses requires different information than a glasses prescription. A contact lens prescription will include the base curve, which is used to match the curvature of the lens to your eye. It will also include the diameter, which is used to fit the width of the lens to your eye.

 

How do I get a contact lens prescription?

Start by scheduling a contact lens appointment with an eye care practitioner or with Malaya Optical. Your first contact lens fitting will take a little longer than a regular eye exam. 

 

Can I continue to use my glasses if I start wearing lenses?

Yes! You can alternate between your contact lenses and glasses to suit your activities, needs and preferences. However, you can wear your contacts all day, every day. The choice is yours.

 

I don’t need glasses all the time. Why should I wear contact lenses?

Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to putting on and taking off your glasses all day. And, unlike glasses, your lenses won’t smudge, steam up, fall off or break, and you won't lose any peripheral (side) vision. If you too, consult our Optometrist at Malaya Optical

 

What’s the difference between daily disposable and reusable contact lenses?

The main difference is how long you should wear the lenses before you need to replace them.

Daily disposable contact lenses are used for one day and then thrown away. They also don’t involve the use of contact lens solutions.

Reusable lenses can be worn every day for two weeks or up to a month. They require cleaning and disinfecting every day. 

 

I have astigmatism. Can I wear contact lenses?

Yes. Your eye care practitioner can help you decide which of these products is the best one for you.

 

What’s the difference between toric and astigmatism contact lenses?They’re the same thing. Toric is the name for the kind of contact lens needed for

They’re the same thing. Toric is the name for the kind of contact lens needed for astigmatism. A toric lens has a different focusing power horizontally than it does vertically, enabling it to correct astigmatism.

 

If I've had a form of laser vision correction, can I still wear contact lenses?

Possibly. Laser eye surgery is not always a permanent solution. You may still need additional vision correction if your eyesight deteriorates with age (presbyopia). Visit your eye care practitioner to find out if contact lenses are an option for you.

 

How old do I have to be to start wearing contact lenses?

There’s no minimum age. Many people start wearing lenses when they are in their early teens. However, some much younger children can be mature enough to wear and care for them. Successful lens wear depends more on responsibility and attitude than age.

Your eye care practitioner can help you decide if contact lenses are right for you and will help you choose the best.  

 

Can contact lenses get lost behind my eye?

No. It’s physically impossible for a contact lens to get lost behind your eye. There is a membrane covering your eye that connects to the inside of your eyelids, so the lens is unable to become lost.

 

Can contact lenses pop out of my eye?

This is very unlikely with soft contact lenses. When properly fitted, your contact lenses should stay in place all the time. Even on a rare occasion when a lens moves out of place, it usually stays on your eye until you can move it back. 

 

Can contact lenses get stuck to my eye?

No, Contact Lenses can be easily removed using the method your eye care practitioner has recommended. All it takes is a little patience and practice.

 

Can contact lenses scratch my eye?

Your contact lenses will not scratch your eye because they are very soft. However, damaged or nicked lens could irritate your eye.
Be careful not to scratch your eye with your fingernail when you are putting in or taking out your contact lenses. Also, if a small piece of grit or dust gets into your eye or under your lens, it can irritate or even scratch your eye.

If you experience any unusual eye discomfort or changes to your vision while wearing your contact lenses, remove them immediately and call your eye care practitioner.

 

Are eye infections common for contact lens wearers?

Contact lens related health issues can occur, but serious problems are very rare. Infections are commonly related to poor cleaning routines. If you follow your eye care practitioner’s directions for proper wear and care, you are unlikely to get an eye infection. If you do experience have any redness, pain or irritation remove your contact lenses and visit your Optometrist immediately. 

 

How do allergies affect contact lenses?

Airborne allergens including pollen, dust and pet dander, can irritate your eyes and can make contact lens wear uncomfortable. 

If you do experience have any redness, pain or irritation remove your contact lenses and visit your Optometrist immediately. 

 

What is hydrogel?

Hydrogel is the soft, water-loving material used to make contact lenses. 

 

What is silicone hydrogel?

Silicone hydrogel is another form of hydrogel (soft, water-loving material). 

 

What is a base curve?

 The base curve is the back curvature of a contact lens. It’s used to match the curvature of the lens to your eye to provide the most comfortable fit for you.

 

What is diameter?

Diameter is the distance across the surface of your lens, from edge to edge. Your eye care practitioner will determine the correct diameter for you at your contact lens fitting.