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Contact Lens Exam
in Pittsburgh
If you’re interested in contact lenses or already wear them, our contact lens exams in Pittsburgh ensure your lenses fit comfortably and support clear, healthy vision. At Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare, our trusted optometrists can help you find lenses that work well for your eyes, routine, and comfort preferences, whether that means daily, bi-weekly, or monthly options.
A contact lens exam goes beyond a standard eye exam to include measurements and fittings specific to contact lens wear.¹ Even long-time wearers benefit from periodic exams. Eyes change over time, and an up-to-date prescription and fit keep your vision clear and your eyes healthy.
What to expect during a contact lens exam
A contact lens exam at Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare typically includes:
Refraction & updated prescription
We measure your vision at multiple distances to confirm your prescription is current and accurate for contact lens use. Note: a contact lens prescription is separate from your glasses prescription and must be measured independently.
Corneal measurements & mapping
Using advanced corneal mapping technology, we measure the curvature and diameter of your cornea. This ensures your contact lenses sit properly on the eye for maximum comfort and clear vision.
Contact lens selection & trial fitting
Based on your measurements and lifestyle, we’ll recommend the best lens type for you.² You’ll have the opportunity to try on lenses and assess comfort before we finalize your prescription. We fit a full range of soft contact lenses, including:
- Daily disposables — Fresh lenses every day with no cleaning required. Ideal for occasional wearers or those with allergies.
- Weekly lenses — Replaced every one to two weeks, balancing convenience and value.
- Monthly soft contacts — Replaced once a month, typically the most economical option for full-time wearers.
- Toric lenses — Designed to correct astigmatism in a soft lens format.
- Multifocal contacts — Corrects both near and distance vision for patients with presbyopia.
Contact lens education & care instructions
If you’re new to contacts, we’ll walk you through proper insertion, removal, and care techniques before you leave the office. First-time wearers can expect to spend a little extra time at this appointment as we ensure you’re comfortable and confident with handling lenses.
Follow-up & prescription finalization
A short follow-up appointment is often recommended after your trial period to confirm the lenses are fitting well and your vision is clear.
Based on the results, we’ll recommend the best type of contact lenses for you. You’ll get to try on different lenses to find the most comfortable fit. If this is your first time wearing contact lenses, we will show you how to insert, remove, and care for them.
Order contact lenses online
We make it easy to get the contact lenses you need with convenient online ordering.
Specialty lenses for complex eye needs
Are you looking for specialty lenses? We also offer specialty contact lens exams for patients with keratoconus, irregular corneas, dry eye, or other conditions that make standard lenses difficult to wear.
Schedule a contact lens exam in Pittsburgh
Contact lenses should feel comfortable throughout the day. If yours no longer do, or you’re new to wearing them, schedule your contact lens exam in Pittsburgh today.
Contact lens exam FAQ
How much is a contact lens eye exam?
The cost of a contact lens exam varies depending on your insurance coverage and whether additional testing is needed. Many vision plans cover routine contact lens exams, though there may be a separate fitting fee.
We recommend calling your insurance provider ahead of your visit to understand your benefits. Our front desk team is also happy to help you understand what to expect cost-wise before your appointment.
What’s the difference between a regular eye exam and a contact lens exam?
A standard eye exam evaluates your eye health and determines your glasses prescription. A contact lens exam includes all of that along with additional steps specific to contacts: corneal measurements, a contact lens fitting, a trial pair, and often a follow-up visit to confirm the fit. Because of these extra components, there may be a separate fee for the contact lens fitting portion of your exam.
How often do I need a contact lens exam?
Most contact lens wearers should have an exam once a year. Annual exams allow us to monitor your eye health, update your prescription if needed, and ensure your lenses are still fitting correctly. Even if your vision feels unchanged, the health of your cornea and the fit of your lenses can shift over time.
Can I order my contact lenses online?
Yes, once you have a valid contact lens prescription from our office, you can order through our online ordering partner (Arrellio) or through any licensed online retailer. Keep in mind that contact lens prescriptions typically expire after one year, so you’ll need an updated exam before reordering if yours has lapsed.
What should I bring to my contact lens eye exam?
To make the most of your appointment, please bring:
- Your current glasses or contact lenses
- Your vision insurance card, medical insurance card, and a photo ID
- A list of any medications you’re taking, as some can affect eye comfort and tear production
- Any questions you have about lens options or care
