The Dangers of Buying Contacts Without a Prescription (and What to Do Instead)

Contact lenses are a safe, convenient way to correct vision - when they’re properly prescribed and fitted. Unfortunately, many people are tempted to purchase contacts online or from unverified retailers without a valid prescription. While this may seem like a shortcut, skipping the professional exam and fitting process can put your eye health at serious risk.
 

Risks of Buying Contacts Without a Prescription

•   Risk of Eye Infections: Without a prescription, there’s no guarantee the lenses you buy are FDA-approved or stored in sanitary conditions.

•   Incorrect Lens Fit: Every eye is unique, and contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all. A lens that doesn’t fit properly can cause irritation, corneal scratches, or even long-term damage to your vision.

•   Wrong Prescription Strength: Wearing lenses that don’t match your exact prescription can lead to headaches, eye strain, and blurry vision. Over time, this can worsen your vision problems instead of helping them.

•   Lack of Professional Oversight: A contact lens exam doesn’t just determine your prescription. It also allows your optometrist to check for underlying conditions like dry eye, corneal irregularities, or other eye health concerns that could make contacts unsafe for you.
 

The Importance of a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting

At City Eye Optometry, we believe your vision and eye health deserve personalized care. During your contract lens exam, your optometrist will take precise measurements of your eyes to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. They’ll also evaluate your tear film to determine which lens material will provide the best comfort and clarity for your unique needs.

To give you confidence in your choice, trial lenses are provided so you can experience the fit and vision quality before making a commitment. Your optometrist will also walk you through proper lens care and hygiene, helping you avoid infections and other complications. By taking this extra step, you’re not only ensuring clear vision but also protecting the long-term health of your eyes.
 

Specialty Contact Lenses for Unique Needs

Not all eyes are the same, and some patients require more than standard contact lenses to achieve clear, comfortable vision. Specialty contact lenses are designed for people with conditions such as astigmatism, keratoconus, severe dry eye, or high prescriptions. These lenses provide solutions when glasses or traditional soft contacts aren’t enough.

During you contact lens exam, our optometrist can determine if you’re a candidate for specialty lenses. Options may include toric lenses for astigmatism, scleral lenses that vault over the cornea to provide comfort and stability, or multifocal lenses that correct both near and distance vision. By working with our eye doctor, you can find a customized option that not only improves your vision but also protects your eye health.
 

See Clearly, Safely, and Comfortably at City Eye Optometry

Buying contact lenses without a prescription may seem convenient, but the risks far outweigh the rewards. Protecting your vision starts with a proper exam and fitting from a licensed optometrist.

Reach out to City Eye Optometry to schedule your contact lens exam and find the safest, most comfortable lenses for your vision and lifestyle. Visit any of our convenient locations in Bellingham and Brockton in Massachusetts, or Vernon and Middletown in Connecticut. Call (978)-208-2390 to book an appointment today