How to Get Prescription Contact Lenses | ACUVUE® Contacts

Question 1

I've been told I have astigmatism. Can I still wear contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

There are indeed contact lenses made specifically to correct astigmatism. Talk to an eye doctor to find out if contacts can be a good fit for your vision problems, and if so, they may prescribe you some. For now, browse ACUVUE contacts for astigmatism to see what options we offer.

Question 2

If I've had LASIK or another refractive surgery, can I still wear contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

It's not uncommon to ask a doctor if you can wear contacts after LASIK. LASIK surgery permanently alters the shape of your eye, but doesn't always provide completely clear vision. For instance, it doesn't prevent presbyopia (the normal aging of your eye that makes it hard to see up close), so you may still need vision correction at some point. If your doctor feels you need vision correction after LASIK surgery and that contact lenses are appropriate, ask them if ACUVUE contact lenses could be a good choice.

Question 3

How old do I have to be to wear contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

Lots of teens (and even some pre-teens) wear contact lenses. It's more about responsibility and attitude than age since they require care and cleanliness. Seeing an eye doctor will help you figure out whether contact lenses are right for you. Daily disposable contacts can be a good option for new and younger contact lens wearers since they don't require cleaning or disinfection.

Question 4

Should I see an optometrist or ophthalmologist for contacts?

Accepted Answer

Either an optometrist or ophthalmologist can fit contacts and provide prescriptions. It's more common for contact lenses to be prescribed by optometrists who provide primary care eye health and vision services, including eye exams and prescribing vision correction. That said, contacts can also be prescribed by ophthalmologists, though they tend to specialize in treating eye disease and performing ocular surgeries.

Question 5

Where can I buy colored contacts?

Accepted Answer

First, you need to visit an eye doctor, who can provide you with a prescription for a brand that is right for your eyes. Only purchase colored contact lenses prescribed by your eye doctor; never substitute brands.

Question 6

Are contacts cheaper than glasses?

Accepted Answer

Contacts aren't cheaper than glasses in the long term. Initial costs for contacts or glasses can be very different depending on the prescription and materials. One main difference is that contacts may need frequent replacement depending on the kind you get, while eyeglasses may last 2-3 years if your prescription doesn't change. If costs for vision correction are a significant concern, speak with your eye doctor at the beginning of your appointment.

How to get contact lenses

Prepare for your contacts

Get a certificate for free^* ACUVUE contact lenses

Find an eye doctor

Get ready for your appointment

The appointments you'll need—now and later

Contact fitting

Follow-up visit

Annual exam

Frequently asked questions

Still not sure about getting contacts?

Get started with ACUVUE^® Contact Lenses

Try ACUVUE for free^*

Find an eye doctor

Earn rewards^‖

Footnotes

How to get contact lenses

Prepare for your contacts

Get a certificate for free* ACUVUE contact lenses

Find an eye doctor

Get ready for your appointment

The appointments you'll need—now and later

Contact fitting

Follow-up visit

Annual exam

Frequently asked questions

Still not sure about getting contacts?

Get started with ACUVUE® Contact Lenses

Try ACUVUE for free*

Find an eye doctor

Earn rewards‖

Stay in touch

Footnotes

Get a certificate for free^* ACUVUE contact lenses

Get started with ACUVUE^® Contact Lenses

Try ACUVUE for free^*

Earn rewards^‖