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6 Rules for Safe Contact Lens Wear

 

Contact Lens Solution

The largest risk of infection for contact wearers comes from improper use and handling of the contact lenses.

Contact lenses are convenient, comfortable and simple-to-use. It’s easy to forget that they are medical devices that need to be carefully used and stored – free from bacteria, dirt and germs.

Are you at risk for infection?

Almost one million cases of eye infections due to contact lens misuse were reported in the U.S. in just one year.  Misuse can be due to many reasons, including wearing your lenses too long, not following prescribed wearing schedules, sleeping in your lenses, and not cleaning your lenses properly.

The Center for Disease Control reports that 99% of contact lens wearers have worn, washed or stored their lenses in unhygienic ways.  If you have bad contact lens habits, it’s time to change, and follow the rules we’ve outlined for you.

washing handsALWAYS follow these 6 simple rules to prevent infection

1. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses…EVERYTIME!

2. Take out your lenses before showering, swimming and sleeping (naps & overnight).

3. Rub your lenses with disinfecting contact lens solution after you remove them.  Don’t use water to clean your lenses!

4. Use fresh solution every time you store your lenses. Never add clean solution to “top off” old solution.

5. Replace your contacts as directed…don’t wear two week contacts for 30 days!  Wearing your contacts past the recommended usage date can cause bacteria and germs to accumulate. The lenses may tear or deteriorate after prolonged use.  When in doubt, throw them out!

6. Keep your contact case clean, rinse with disinfecting contact lens solution and let dry completely!  A dirty contact lens case can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Replace your contact lens case every 3 months.

Why do you need to follow these rules?

Contact lens infections (keratitis) can be painful, and in the worst case scenario, can cause permanent scarring and even blindness. If you have developed bad lens wearing habits, stop now!

 No sleeping in contacts.  No swimming or showering in contacts.  No dirty contact cases. 

Questions?  Dr. Bianca Tang is our contact lens expert.  Let her work with you to find the best lenses and the best fit to give you the vision you’ve been looking for.  Fill out the form to the right to contact our office for an appointment, or call us at 610-628-2022.

Why People Delay LASIK

 

There is no need to delay!  Get the facts you need to make the best decision for you about LASIK surgery.

“I wish I had done this years ago!”

We often hear this statement from patients soon after their LASIK procedure. Why did they wait so long?  The top two answers are:  Cost of & Fear of Surgery

Let’s help dispel both of those issues.

COST:  When you look at the price of LASIK, don’t think of it as a cost, but as an investment that will pay off as long-term savings.

Consider the price of glasses and contact lenses over time. The average cost of glasses is $250-$400. They can cost you even more if you have multiple pairs or use prescription sunglasses!

If you wear contacts, you may be paying $250 per year…If you need specialty contacts, the cost could be even more!

If you add these numbers over time, you can see that LASIK can save you money over your lifetime.

FEAR:  We understand that Eye Surgery can be a worrisome prospect. When you consider that LASIK is an outpatient procedure that takes only minutes to perform, you can rest easier.  LASIK and PRK have been proven safe and effective by the FDA. The risk of complications resulting from LASIK surgery is less than 1%.

We make sure that you understand what happens during the procedure to dispel your fears.  Dr. Moran has a very calming demeanor during surgery. He treats each patient with care.  He will talk to you throughout your procedure so that you are aware and informed.  We know that the more you know about what to expect during surgery, the less you will need to worry!

Here is a step-by-step summary of what you can expect during your LASIK procedure:
  1. During LASIK, you will be awake and alert in a reclined position.
  2. Your eyes will be numbed by a series of drops.
  3. Your eye will be held open by a lid holder  – so you won’t have to worry about blinking!
  4. Your vision goes dark for a few seconds while Dr. Moran creates the flap.
  5. The flap is then opened, like the page of a book.
  6. A cool laser is used to reshape the corneal tissue underneath the flap.
  7. The flap is closed and Dr. Moran smooths it back into place.

Worried about the risks of surgery?  The risk with LASIK surgery is very low. Making sure that you have an experienced surgeon like Dr. Moran, and you can reduce your risk even further.   Dr. Moran has done thousands of LASIK procedures.

The first step is yours.  Come and see us for a FREE LASIK consultation.  Dr. Moran and his expert staff will answer all of your questions and help you feel confident that this procedure is right for you.