Many people who wear contact lenses regularly assume that if their vision seems stable, they don’t need frequent eye exams. In reality, our eyes change over time due to age, lifestyle, prolonged screen use, and even the lenses we wear daily. This makes routine eye examinations more important than most people realize.

How often should you get an eye exam if you wear contact lenses?

General recommendation:

• Contact lens wearers should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year.
• If any unusual symptoms occur, you should get checked immediately—don’t wait for your annual appointment.

An annual exam involves more than just updating your prescription. It includes assessing your cornea, tear film, eye curvature (BC), and how well your lenses fit—all of which affect comfort and safety when wearing lenses.

Why do contact lens wearers need more frequent eye exams?

1. Higher risk of irritation and infection
   Contact lenses sit directly on the eyes all day. If not properly cleaned or replaced, they can accumulate protein deposits and bacteria, increasing the risk of inflammation. An eye exam ensures your lenses remain safe and suitable for your eyes.
2. Your prescription may change without clear symptoms
   Heavy screen use—computer, tablet, or phone—can cause nearsightedness to progress or create new astigmatism. Wearing an outdated prescription may lead to eye strain, headaches, and blurry vision.
3. Your eye curvature (BC) may change over time
   Long-term lens wear, especially monthly lenses, can cause subtle changes to the corneal shape. Regular check-ups help ensure your lenses still fit properly—not too tight or too loose.
4. To detect silent or early complications

• Minor corneal abrasions
• Increased dryness
• Abnormal blood vessel growth on the eye
  Detecting these issues early prevents more serious complications like corneal ulcers.
  

What should be included in a yearly exam for contact lens wearers?

• Updated vision prescription (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)
• Corneal curvature measurement (K-reading / BC)
• Tear film evaluation and dry-eye assessment
• Lens movement and fit assessment
• Corneal surface check using special dyes to detect micro-scratches
• Evaluation of the lens type you’re using—whether it still suits your eyes or needs adjustment

Warning signs that you should get checked immediately

• Pain, stinging, or a foreign-body sensation while wearing lenses
• Frequent redness
• Blurry vision despite unchanged prescription
• Increased dryness or burning
• Seeing halos or glare around lights at night
  

If these symptoms appear, stop wearing lenses and see an eye care professional promptly.

Conclusion

Whether you use daily, monthly, or yearly lenses, getting a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year is crucial. It keeps your vision clear, your eyes comfortable, and reduces long-term risks associated with lens wear.

For people with rapidly changing prescriptions, heavy daily lens use, or recurring irritation, eye exams every 6 months are recommended. Regular check-ups help ensure your eyes stay healthy and ready for everyday use.