How Long Does It Take for New Contacts to Settle?

If you’re new to contact lenses or switching to a different type, you might wonder how long it takes for them to feel comfortable and start working as expected. Each person’s eyes are unique, and factors like lens type, prescription, and how often you wear them all play a role in the adjustment period.

 

What to Expect During Your Contact Lens Exam and Fitting

At Coers Family Eyecare, PC, your comfort and vision clarity are our top priorities. During your contact lens exam, we begin by evaluating your vision and overall eye health. If contact lenses are a good option for you, we’ll perform measurements to determine the best lens size and shape for your eyes.
 

Next comes the contact lens fitting. You’ll be given trial lenses to see how they feel and perform. Your doctor will assess lens movement, vision clarity, and how your eyes respond to the lenses. You’ll also be trained on proper insertion, removal, and hygiene practices.

 

The Transition Period: What Affects How Long It Takes?

Several variables influence how quickly your eyes adjust to new contacts:

• Type of Lenses: Soft lenses generally settle more quickly, often within a few hours to a day. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses or specialty contacts may require a longer adaptation period, sometimes up to two weeks or more.

• Prescription Changes: If you’ve had a significant change in your prescription, it may take a few days for your vision to stabilize as your eyes adjust to the new correction.

• Lens Wear History: First-time contact lens wearers typically need more time to adapt than experienced users switching to a new lens brand or type.

• Daily Wear vs. Extended Wear: Daily wear lenses are usually easier to get used to, while extended wear or specialty lenses may take longer to feel natural.
   

A follow-up visit is typically scheduled about a week after your initial fitting. This allows your optometrist to evaluate how your eyes are adjusting and make any necessary changes to lens type, fit, or prescription.

 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

While some initial discomfort is expected, you should contact Coers Family Eyecare, PC if you experience:

• Persistent dryness or irritation

• Blurry or fluctuating vision after the first few days

• Redness or swelling

• Pain or sensitivity to light
   

These may be signs of a poor lens fit or a more serious issue like an infection or corneal abrasion.

 

Ready to Experience the Convenience of Contact Lenses?

The time it takes for new contacts to settle varies, but with proper guidance and follow-up care, most patients enjoy clear, comfortable vision within a few days. Trust the team at Coers Family Eyecare, PC to guide you from your initial contact lens exam to ensuring your long-term eye health and comfort.
 

Schedule your contact lens exam at Coers Family Eyecare, PC to find the right lenses for your lifestyle and vision needs. Visit office in Columbus, Indiana, or call (812) 408-8400 to book an appointment today.