It is wise to always purchase the best lens that you can afford. A better material means a longer contact lens life with greater comfort and a higher margin of safety. In the long run it generally proves more economical. Lenses bought at "bargains" and "sales" are best left alone, for they are usually reject lenses of invariably bad material and poor workmanship, a combination which can prove bad for the eye.

Speak to your practitioner before deciding to purchase lenses. They do not suit all people and usually a trial fit is done to know your acceptance. Ask your practitioner why a particular material suits you more than another, and as to whether he would recommend any particular type for you. Remember, a lens is not fitted and finished with, for you will be visiting the doctor regularly if comfort and prolonged wear are to be attained.

Select your practitioner carefully, as there are a number of virtual novices who have to depend upon advertisements and gimmicks to draw patients.

The success of a well-fitted lens is a happy marriage between the curvature and power variables of your eye and a contact lens. Do not expect instant results. Sometimes a number of lenses and variables have to be changed before an ideal fit is achieved.

Look after your lenses. Lenses are usually damaged while they are being inserted into or removed from the eye. They are precision articles and are very delicate. A little care goes a long way to ensure happy and comfortable lens wear.

Bianca Cohen

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