Why a Prescription? A contact lens is a medical device. If it's not prescribed properly, you may not see well. More importantly, a poorly fitting lens — or one made from a material not well-suited to your eyes — can mean discomfort, inflammation, swelling, abrasion, or another problem that could, in rare cases, result in permanent eye tissue damage. That, and the risk of infection, are also why it's a bad idea to share contact lenses with other wearers. Never share your contacts, including colored contacts and theatrical contact lenses used for cosmetic purposes only. Sharing contact lenses can cause serious eye problems. You can be fitted for contact lenses by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
When Does Your Rx Expire? By law contact lens prescriptions are valid for a minimum of one year, or the minimum required by state law, whichever is greater. Even if you buy your replacement contacts from another source, you still need to visit your eye doctor for regular eye exams and contact lens fittings.When your prescription expires, you won't be able to buy more lenses until you get an updated prescription. This will probably involve a checkup by your ECP to be certain that contact lenses aren't adversely affecting your eyes. Just because your eyes feel good and your contact lenses seem to be working well does not mean your eye health is O.K. "You may be having microscopic problems that can be seen only with a slit lamp [a type of microscope used during an eye exam]."
Article by Eye-Opener April 2012
