Contact Lens FAQs

There is no set age for contact lens wear. Some children and teenagers manage lenses very well, while others start later. The right timing depends on eye health, maturity, hygiene habits and whether the wearer can follow safe lens care instructions.

Most modern soft contact lenses are made with comfort in mind. Your optometrist will recommend lenses based on your eye shape, prescription, lifestyle and how often you plan to wear them. A proper fitting helps your lenses feel good and perform well.

No. A contact lens cannot disappear behind your eye. The inner eyelid and the surface of the eye are joined by a thin membrane, which stops this from happening. A lens can occasionally shift under the eyelid, but it can be moved back or removed safely.

This is unusual. If your eyes are dry, a lens may feel harder to take out, but lubricating eye drops and the correct removal technique usually help. If you cannot remove a lens or you have pain, seek optometry advice promptly.

Well-fitted contact lenses should stay in place during normal daily activities, including exercise. A lens can move if you rub your eye firmly, but this should not happen often when the fit is right.

Contact lenses should not scratch your eyes when they are fitted properly and worn as recommended. Good hygiene, correct handling, replacing lenses on time and following your wearing schedule all help reduce irritation and risk.

Contact lenses are medical devices, so they need to be prescribed after an eye assessment. Your prescription helps ensure the lenses correct your vision and sit safely and comfortably on your eyes.

Yes. A contact lens prescription may include lens power, brand, base curve, diameter, material and replacement schedule. It can differ from your glasses prescription because contact lenses sit on the eye, rather than in front of it.

You will need a contact lens consultation. Your optometrist will measure your eyes, check your vision and fit trial lenses to assess comfort, movement and clarity before finalising your prescription.

The base curve is the curve on the back of the contact lens. It helps determine how closely the lens matches the front surface of your eye.

Diameter is the width of the contact lens from one edge to the other. It is one of the measurements used to choose a lens that fits correctly.

The cost varies depending on your prescription, the lens type and how regularly you wear them. Some people wear contact lenses daily, while others use them only for sport, work, events or convenience.

Daily disposable contact lenses are very simple because you wear a fresh pair each day and throw them away after use. Reusable lenses require cleaning and storage with the correct solution, as directed by your optometrist.

Yes. Many people use both glasses and contact lenses depending on the day, activity or preference. It is also important to keep an up-to-date pair of glasses as a backup.

Contact lenses can be useful for activities where glasses feel inconvenient, such as sport, exercise, travel, work or social occasions. They do not fog up, slip down or get in the way like glasses sometimes can.

Contact lenses can be a great option for sport because they provide clear vision without frames. They are not recommended for swimming or water activities unless your optometrist specifically advises you on safe options.

Eye infections are uncommon, but they can occur if lenses are not cleaned, replaced or worn correctly. Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, follow your replacement schedule and attend regular contact lens reviews.

Daily disposable lenses are worn once and then thrown away. Reusable lenses are worn for a set period, such as two weeks or one month, and must be cleaned and stored correctly between wears.

Toric contact lenses are designed to correct astigmatism. They have a special shape that helps focus light more accurately and usually need to sit in a stable position on the eye.

Hydrogel is a soft, water-containing material used in some contact lenses. It helps lenses remain flexible and comfortable on the eye.

Silicone hydrogel is a soft contact lens material designed to allow more oxygen to pass through the lens to the eye. Your optometrist can advise whether this material is suitable for you.

Dk refers to how easily oxygen passes through a contact lens material. Dk/t refers to oxygen transmission through the finished lens, taking both the material and lens thickness into account.

Possibly. Suitability depends on your eyes, prescription and vision needs after surgery. Your optometrist can assess whether contact lenses are suitable and recommend an appropriate option.

Possibly. Laser eye surgery changes the shape of the eye, so you will need a professional fitting to determine whether contact lenses can fit safely and provide clear, comfortable vision.

Allergies can make the eyes feel itchy, watery or irritated, which may affect contact lens comfort. Daily disposable lenses may help some people because you use a fresh pair each day, but your optometrist can recommend the best approach for your eyes.