Contact Lens Exams & Fitting
Safe contact lens wear starts with a proper fit and regular check-ups.
Written & reviewed by
Dr. Atsushi MekadaBoard-certified Ophthalmologist, The Japanese Ophthalmological SocietyLast updated:
About Contact Lens Care
For anyone considering contact lenses
Contact lenses are a "highly controlled medical device" that touches the eye directly. Because they sit continuously on the extremely thin and sensitive cornea, safe long-term use requires correctly selecting a lens suited to your eye condition and having regular eye exams. We perform vision testing, corneal shape measurement and fitting checks to recommend the right lens for you.
Symptoms
- Considering contact lenses for the first time
- Current lenses no longer feel comfortable, or vision has changed
- Astigmatism making it hard to see well
- Considering contacts for presbyopia
- Eye pain or redness during wear
- Want a regular check-up
Warning signs to watch for: Eye pain, persistent redness, or blurred vision can mean the lens is scratching the cornea or an infection has developed. Rather than waiting it out with over-the-counter products, stop wearing the lens and seek care as soon as possible. Small corneal scratches are not uncommon even without noticeable symptoms.
Treatment
- ConsultationWe consider suitable lens types based on your lifestyle and purpose (sports, desk work, wearing time, etc).
- Vision & refraction testingMeasures the degree of nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism to determine your prescription.
- Corneal shape measurement (keratometry)Measures the curve of your cornea. This is especially important, as a poorly fitted lens can scratch the cornea or cause oxygen deprivation.
- Eye pressure & slit-lamp examinationChecks for other eye conditions such as glaucoma, and signs of corneal damage or dry eye.
- Fitting checkConfirms how the lens moves, sits and performs while worn, adjusting the power or type if needed.
Lenses can be purchased online, but continuing to wear a poorly fitted lens can scratch the cornea without symptoms, potentially leading to infection. Eye exams exist to prevent this kind of risk before it happens.
Ongoing Care
- Contact lenses are a highly controlled medical device. Use them based on a doctor's examination and prescription.
- Have a regular check-up roughly every 3–6 months. Fit can change over time and with changes in your eye condition.
- Improper handling or cleaning can cause infection. Stick to the prescribed wearing time and expiration date, and maintain good hygiene habits.
- If you notice discomfort (pain, redness, blurred vision), don't push through — remove the lens and seek care promptly.
A Note From the Director
Contact lenses are convenient, but as a medical device, improper use can put real strain on your eyes. Rather than thinking “I can see fine, so it's okay,” let's keep checking your eye health together with regular exams. Don't push through even minor discomfort — please consult us.
Related Pages
Please note: The effects of the treatments described on this page vary between individuals, and no particular outcome is guaranteed. The severity and course of your condition will be explained by your doctor after examination.
Access, Appointments & Visiting Us
We do not take phone appointments for either first or follow-up visits. No appointment is needed — patients are seen in the order they arrive during our consultation hours. If a doctor determines during your visit that a detailed examination is needed, we will arrange the next appointment for you before you leave.
We welcome patients from Hikone and across Shiga Prefecture, as well as from Kyoto City, Takatsuki and Hirakata (Osaka), and the Nagoya (Aichi) area.