Why it is necessary to take a prescription from an optometrist for novelty contacts?

Key point

What are novelty contacts?

Novelty contact lenses are decorative lenses that are basically used for changing the look of the eyes and not for the vision correction. These lenses are extremely popular especially among youngsters as they can change your appearance and compliment your entire look. These lenses are also medical devices, so you must purchase them after getting a prescription from an ophthalmologist and take care of their complete hygiene.

are they safe?

Novelty contacts can definitely give a new definition to your entire look and can be fun while dressing up. They are absolutely safe if they are purchased with a prescription and fitted from an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. If you decide to use them, take the required cautions. If they are not purchased from an authorized source and are not properly cared for, they may cause serious complications. The problems that can be caused include corneal infection, scratches on the cornea, conjunctivitis, decreased vision and even blindness.

Why it is necessary to get a prescription from an optometrist?

He will measure the eyes to fit the contacts properly in your eyes. The contact lenses that are not fitted properly can cause irritation or the damage to the eyes. While taking the fitting, the eye specialist will measure the curvature of the cornea and pupil or the iris size. These lenses may not be suitable for the people having astigmatism.

an optometrist can help you in folloWing Ways

The eye specialist will assess whether your eyes are in good condition or not to wear the contact lenses. The optometrist will perform a tear film test to find out if your eyes produce enough hydration to keep them moist. Novelty contacts are thicker due to the paints and designs made on them which make them less breathable. If your eyes don’t produce sufficient hydration, these lenses may cause irritation or any other eye problem.