For first-time contact lens wearers, visiting a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination and lens fitting is essential. Just like eyeglasses, contact lenses require precise prescription strength. Wearing lenses with incorrect diopter measurements can lead to eye strain, discomfort, and potentially worsen existing vision conditions.
The fundamental difference between eyeglasses and contact lenses lies in their position relative to the eye. Eyeglasses sit approximately 12mm from the cornea, while contact lenses rest directly on the eye's surface. This distance difference necessitates prescription conversion using the formula: Contact Lens Power = Eyeglass Power / (1 - 0.012 × Eyeglass Power). In this formula, 0.012 represents the distance in meters between eyeglass lenses and the cornea, and diopter values are negative for myopia (nearsightedness) and positive for hyperopia (farsightedness).
Generally, prescriptions below 4.00 diopters (400 degrees) require minimal adjustment, while stronger prescriptions need significant conversion. Always refer to professional conversion charts or consult your eye care specialist for accurate measurements. For those with different prescriptions in each eye, proper lens identification in storage cases is crucial to avoid discomfort from swapping lenses.
Patients with astigmatism should note that while minor astigmatism (below 0.75 diopters) might be corrected with regular spherical lenses, higher astigmatism requires specially designed toric contact lenses for optimal vision correction. These lenses feature stable axis positioning that maintains correct orientation on the eye, providing consistent visual acuity throughout wear.
As a specialized contact lens manufacturer, we develop precision toric lenses that maintain stable positioning and provide consistent visual correction for astigmatic patients. Our medical-grade production facilities ensure all lenses meet international quality standards for vision correction and wearing comfort.