Contact Lens Exams

Contact lenses are a safe and effective way to correct vision, offering convenience and freedom from glasses. Whether you’re interested in trying contacts for the first time or need an updated prescription, Coachella Valley Optometry provides complete contact lens exams, fittings, and lens options for patients across Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, and Palm Springs.

Contact Lens Exams: The First Step

A contact lens exam goes beyond a standard eye exam. Since contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye, we perform additional tests to ensure a safe, comfortable fit.

During your visit, you can expect:

Comprehensive eye health check (screening for glaucoma, retinal health, etc.)
Prescription evaluation to determine if contacts are appropriate for your vision needs
Corneal curvature measurement using a keratometer
Pupil size assessment to select the right lens design
Tear film evaluation if you have dry eyes

The Contact Lens Fitting Process

Once your eyes are measured and your preferences discussed, we’ll fit you with a trial pair of lenses. Your doctor will:

Examine how the lenses align and move on your eyes
Ensure the prescription provides clear, sharp vision
Review insertion, removal, and proper lens care

You’ll wear the trial pair for about a week before returning for a follow-up exam to confirm comfort, fit, and vision clarity.

Contact Lens Options

We offer a wide range of lenses to suit different lifestyles and vision needs, including:

Daily disposables – convenient, no-cleaning option for busy patients
Bi-weekly or monthly lenses – cost-effective, reusable options with proper cleaning
Toric lenses – designed to correct astigmatism
Multifocal lenses – great for patients over 40 experiencing presbyopia (age-related near vision changes)
Colored contact lenses – available for cosmetic enhancement with prescription or non-prescription options
Specialty lenses – including scleral and hybrid designs for patients with corneal irregularities or dry eye (see our Specialty Contact Lenses page)

Benefits of Contact Lenses

Clear, natural vision without frames
Wider field of view compared to glasses
Comfortable wear for sports and active lifestyles
Options for both vision correction and cosmetic enhancement

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate exam for contacts?

Yes. A contact lens exam includes additional measurements and tests to ensure a safe and proper fit.

Can I wear contacts if I have dry eyes?

In many cases, yes. Specialty designs like scleral lenses can help patients with chronic dry eye wear contacts comfortably

Are contacts safe for teens?

Yes. Many children and teens successfully wear contacts. The decision depends on maturity and ability to follow lens care instructions.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

At Coachella Valley Optometry, we make getting contact lenses simple and stress-free. From your first fitting to ongoing care, our team is here to help you enjoy clear, comfortable vision with contacts tailored to your lifestyle.

Call or book online today at our Indio, Coachella, Cathedral City, or Palm Springs, CA locations.