Contact lenses offer freedom, convenience, and clear vision—but only when they’re properly fitted, monitored, and cared for. While many people view contacts as a routine alternative to glasses, they’re actually regulated medical devices that require professional oversight. A poor fit or lack of follow-up care can lead to discomfort, blurry vision, and in more serious cases, long-term damage to your eyes.
At Opto-Mization, we provide contact lens fittings in both Nanaimo and Victoria, designed to ensure safety, clarity, and comfort, right from the start. Whether you’re a new wearer, switching lens types, or simply due for a refit, here’s why proper contact lens fitting is essential—and how we help you get it right.
Contact Lenses Are Not One-Size-Fits-All
Every eye is different. The shape of your cornea, the amount of oxygen your eyes need, your tear film quality, and your lifestyle all influence what kind of contact lens will work best for you.
That’s why a proper fitting isn’t just a quick measurement—it’s a medical assessment.
At Opto-Mization, your contact lens fitting includes:
- Evaluation of corneal health using slit lamp and other tools
- Measurement of eye curvature and diameter
- A trial lens fitting to assess how lenses sit on your eye
- Education on wear time, cleaning routines, and potential red flags
This process ensures your lenses not only correct your vision but also support long-term eye health.
Book your contact lens fitting in Victoria or Nanaimo:
Risks of Poorly Fitted or Improperly Worn Lenses
When contact lenses are not properly fitted, worn too long, or handled incorrectly, the consequences can be serious. We’ve seen firsthand how seemingly minor discomfort can progress into major complications if not addressed.
Some of the most common risks include:
Corneal inflammation or irritation
Poor fit or friction can cause chronic irritation, leading to red eyes, burning, or light sensitivity.
Infections (keratitis)
Wearing lenses too long, sleeping in lenses not approved for overnight use, or poor hygiene can introduce bacteria to the cornea.
Corneal ulcers
This painful and potentially vision-threatening condition can result from prolonged exposure to low oxygen levels or untreated infections.
Scarring and long-term damage
With repeated or severe episodes, scarring can reduce corneal transparency—impacting vision permanently.
These issues are not rare—and they are almost always preventable with proper fitting, follow-up, and patient education.
As we noted in our contact lens safety article, many of the complications we see in clinic come from patients who were given lenses without adequate instruction, monitoring, or consideration of their eye health.
Daily vs Monthly Lenses: What’s the Best Option?
There’s no one answer—because your eyes, habits, and goals are unique.
That said, daily disposable lenses are often recommended for first-time wearers or patients prone to dryness, allergies, or infection risk. They offer:
- No need for cleaning solutions
- Less risk of protein buildup or contamination
- Lower incidence of infection due to single use
Monthly lenses may be a better fit for some prescriptions or long-time users who are diligent with hygiene and wear time. They can be more cost-effective and offer broader availability in certain specialized designs (e.g., toric or multifocal lenses).
During your fitting, we’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each and help you make a decision that balances comfort, safety, and convenience.
Contact Lens Fittings at Opto-Mization: What to Expect
Whether you visit us in Nanaimo or Victoria, our process is consistent and thorough.
Here’s what you can expect during your fitting:
1. Comprehensive Eye Exam
We start by evaluating your overall eye health and prescription. If it’s been a while since your last full exam, we’ll update your vision and screen for any conditions that may affect contact lens wear.
2. Corneal and Tear Film Evaluation
We assess your corneal shape and curvature, check for signs of dryness or inflammation, and determine if your eyes can tolerate contact lenses comfortably.
3. Lens Selection and Trial Fitting
Using your measurements and vision needs, we select a lens type and brand for trial. You’ll try the lenses in the office, and we’ll check:
- Movement and positioning of the lens
- Visual clarity
- Comfort over short-term wear
4. Education and Support
You’ll receive detailed instructions on:
- Proper insertion and removal techniques
- Wear time and replacement schedule
- Cleaning and storage (if applicable)
- Early warning signs that require a return visit
5. Follow-Up Appointment
This is a crucial step. We bring you back to reassess fit and eye health after you’ve worn the lenses at home. This helps catch any subtle issues before they cause damage.
Contact lens fittings are not a one-and-done appointment—they’re a medical process.
We encourage all patients to return for annual check-ins, even if you’ve worn lenses for years.
Available Lens Types and Who They’re For
We offer a full range of lenses, including:
Daily Disposables
Great for new wearers, travellers, teens, or anyone looking for convenience and low maintenance.
Monthly Lenses
Cost-effective, durable options for consistent users with strong hygiene habits.
Toric Lenses
Designed to correct astigmatism and provide stable, clear vision.
Multifocal Lenses
Ideal for patients with presbyopia who want to see clearly at multiple distances without reading glasses. Multifocal lenses can be contra-indicated for people with balance problems, headaches, migraines or extended screen time and reading. They are often used as a specific tool for specific activities.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) and Scleral Lenses
Custom lenses used for patients with complex needs, such as keratoconus, high prescriptions, or post-surgical corneas.
Our experienced optometrists will help you navigate the options and find the best match for your prescription, lifestyle, and ocular health.
Contact Lens Fittings for Teens and First-Time Wearers
Starting with contact lenses can be exciting, but also a little intimidating. We take extra time with first-time wearers, especially teens, to make sure they’re confident and supported.
This includes:
- Step-by-step guidance on how to handle lenses
- Realistic wear-time schedules to prevent overuse
- Tips on maintaining lens hygiene in school or on-the-go
- Regular follow-ups to track adaptation and comfort
Starting with a strong foundation builds safe habits for long-term success with contact lenses.
Why Proper Fit and Follow-Up Are So Important
You might not feel immediate discomfort with a poor fit, but that doesn’t mean your eyes aren’t being affected. In fact, some of the most damaging contact lens complications happen quietly, with little to no symptoms until they become urgent.
Proper fit helps ensure:
- The lens moves as it should to maintain tear exchange and corneal oxygen
- The edges don’t rub or cause microtrauma
- The cornea receives enough oxygen to stay healthy
- The lens maintains stable, clear positioning throughout the day
Ongoing care ensures that your eyes are responding well and that any changes in vision, tear film, or corneal health are caught early.
As outlined in our FAQ, we strongly recommend fittings for any new wearer or any patient experiencing dryness, blurred vision, or discomfort with their current lenses.
Contact Lens Services in Nanaimo and Victoria
At both our Nanaimo and Victoria clinics, contact lens care is integrated into our full-scope optometry services. Whether you’re starting fresh, renewing your prescription, or managing long-term lens use, we provide continuity of care that extends well beyond the prescription.
Many of our patients appreciate being able to:
- Have fittings, exams, and follow-ups at the same location
- Access updated lens technology as their needs change
- Ask questions anytime through our support staff
- Combine lens assessments with annual eye exams
With locations in Victoria and Nanaimo, we make it easy for patients across Vancouver Island to get the professional contact lens care they need.
Book Your Contact Lens Fitting Today
Contact lenses can be safe, effective, and comfortable—but only when they’re properly fitted by trained professionals who prioritize your eye health. At Opto-Mization, we take that responsibility seriously.
Whether you’re new to contact lenses, a parent of a teen exploring the option, or a long-time wearer looking for a better fit, we’re here to help.
To book your contact lens fitting in Victoria or Nanaimo:
👉 Book your appointment
Choose “Contact Lens Fitting”, or schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam and let us know you’re interested in trying contacts.
Let’s make sure your lenses fit—not just your eyes, but your life.
