Contact lenses are a popular and convenient option for millions of people, yet many myths still make patients hesitate to try them. Let’s clear up some of the most common misconceptions about contact lenses and replace them with the real facts.
Myth #1: Contact Lenses Can Get Lost Behind Your Eye
Fact – This is one of the most persistent and frightening myths, but thankfully, it’s completely untrue!
Your eye is covered by a thin membrane called the conjunctiva. This membrane lines the inside of your eyelid and folds back to cover the white part of your eye, acting as a natural barrier. Because of this anatomical structure, it is physically impossible for a contact lens to slip behind your eyeball. If a lens feels lost, it’s most likely tucked up underneath your upper eyelid, and a few blinks or some sterile solution will usually bring it out.
Myth #2: Contact Lenses are Too Difficult to Put In and Take Out
Fact – There can be a slight learning curve, as there is when trying anything new. But the process becomes second nature very quickly. We understand that touching your eye can feel strange at first. However, our team provides thorough training for every new contact lens wearer. We’ll guide you through the process step-by-step, share tips for easy insertion and removal, and ensure you are confident before you leave our office. Just like learning to tie your shoes, it gets easier every time you do it!
Myth #3: Contacts are Uncomfortable
Fact – Current contact lenses are designed with advanced, breathable materials which make them extremely comfortable, often to the point where you forget you’re wearing them. If your lenses are causing consistent discomfort, scratchiness, or redness, it is not normal. This typically signals one of three issues:
- You have the wrong fit or prescription.
- You are wearing them longer than recommended.
- You have an underlying condition like dry eye or an allergy.
If you experience discomfort, remove your lenses and call us so we can determine the cause of the problem.
Myth #4: Contact Lenses are Only for Adults
Fact – Many teens and younger kids wear contacts and do great with them. In fact, contact lenses can work for almost any age. Children, teens, adults, and seniors can all be successful contact lens wearers with the right lens type and hygiene habits. As long as a person is responsible and can follow the recommended care instructions provided, they can be a good option.
At Family Vision Development Center, we have a dedicated team that wants to make sure our patients have all of the facts in order to make the best decisions about their eye health. Contact lenses are a safe and effective choice for vision correction for many people. We have a wide range of options to meet the individual needs of our patients and will work with you to make sure you are comfortable with your selection. Reach out to us at 630-862-2020 to schedule an appointment or ask for additional information.
Family Vision Development Center is a full-service vision center offering innovative vision therapy services, sports vision therapy services, post-concussive vision rehabilitation, comprehensive vision exams for eyeglasses and contact lenses, management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration and cataracts, and a state-of-the-art optical center offering the latest designs in eyewear. We are dedicated to keeping our patients comfortable and well-informed and we will explain every exam and procedure and answer all of your questions. We accept both scheduled and emergency appointments, and offer convenient financing and insurance options to ensure that high-quality vision care is available and affordable to all of our patients.