Q: How often should I have an eye examination?

A: Healthy patients age 20-40 who are not contact lens patients should have an exam at least every 2 years. All children and teenagers should have an eye examination annually, unless the doctor recommends more frequent visits. All contact lens patients should have an annual exam. Indiana state law requires that a contact lens prescription be renewed after 12 months. Contact lens patients are at risk for certain problems that other patients are not, and they need to be monitored at least annually. Patients age 40 and over should be seen annually. Risks for eye disease increases with age, and annual exams provide a good way to build a normal data base.

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Q: I have astigmatism. Does that mean I can’t wear contact lenses?

A: Having astigmatism does not preclude you from wearing contacts, but it does complicate the process a little. Most soft disposable lenses correct for nearsightedness or farsightedness, but not astigmatism. For patients with a very small amount of astigmatism, these lenses can be used by averaging the patient’s two powers and using the result as the contact lens power in simple disposable lenses. For patients with greater amounts of astigmatism, soft toric contact lenses can be used. These are lenses that have the patient’s two powers cut or molded into them. Most of the time, though, with persistence and patience of the patient and the doctor, a satisfactory contact lens fit can be achieved.

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Q: What insurances to you accept?

A: We accept many insurance programs that local employers provide.  Your best bet is to call our office at 453-5005 with your insurance card in hand, and our staff will be able to assist you with your individual insurance needs.  If we are not direct providers for your insurance, many times we can assist you in filing for reimbursement.

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Q: What does an eye exam include?

A: Our examinations include a measurement of your glasses prescription, fit for contact lenses if requested, complete eye health evaluation including retinal photography, screening of peripheral vision, screening for glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts.

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Q: What frame lines do you carry?

A: We strive to maintain an inventory that reflects the latest in fashions.  Some of our current lines are Nike, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger, Candies, OGI Cover Girl, Scott Harris, and Flexon.  We also have a selection of prescription and non-prescription sunglasses.

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Q: What if I have never worn contacts before and would like to try?

A: After your examination and a discussion with Dr. Bud or Dr. Kate to assess your candidacy and likelihood for success with contact lenses, you will be scheduled for a training session with a technician.  At that visit, you will learn proper insertion, removal, handling, and general do’s and don’t’s of contact lens wear.  You will then return one week later for a progress check to determine your success with the fit.