As early as 1508, Leonardo da Vinci, a renowned architect, mathematician, and inventor suggested through a series of sketches that the optics of the human eye could be altered by placing the cornea directly in contact with water. His idea may have played a role in inspiring the development of modern contact lenses more than 350 years later.
Contact lenses have come a long way and are now considered a good alternative to traditional eyeglasses. They are an effective visual aid that helps correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Similar to eyeglasses, you’ll need a contact lens prescription from an eye doctor.
Contact Lens Prescription Basics
You’ll receive a prescription for your contact lenses after your comprehensive eye exam. This contains specific information that is necessary for your eye safety, comfort and optimum vision. Most prescription forms describe the refractive power, base curve and diameter needed for your contact lenses. They may also include cylinder and axis (for patients with astigmatism), added magnifying power, color and brand.
Why You Need Contact Lens Prescription
Without a prescription written by a qualified eye doctor, you can’t purchase contact lenses. Even special-effect lenses that are worn for cosmetic purposes require a prescription.
Contact Lens Prescription Expiration
A contact lens prescription is valid for a minimum of one year or the minimum required by state law. Once it expires, you need to visit your eye doctor again for a checkup. They will then assess whether you have other underlying vision problems and may suggest a change in your contact lens prescription.
Park Slope Eye offers contact lenses for vision correction. We also provide vision therapy to help treat learning-related vision problems and poor binocular coordination. Call us today at (347) 380-7070 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We serve residents of Brooklyn, NY.
