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There are increasing reports of the dispensing of cosmetic contact lenses, without an appropriate prescription, by non eye-care professionals such as boutiques, beach shops, tattoo parlors, and other nonprofessional commercial vendors. Despite the facts that these lenses offer no visual correction, all contact lenses are classified as Class II or Class III medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, they can only be prescribed and fitted by licensed eye care professionals. In addition, sharing of cosmetic contact lenses has become commonplace.
Contact lenses are relatively safe. However, complications can occur. Problems such as eye pain, bacterial infections, and corneal ulcers are caused by improper use of lenses or solutions, or when patients try to take short cuts like using lenses for a longer time than prescribed or not using adequate cleaning and soaking solutions.
At a minimum, a comprehensive examination for a contact lens prescription includes a measurement of the refractive error, an evaluation of the shape and integrity of the cornea and the associated structures as well as the quality of the tear film. Successfully fitted contact lenses have three characteristics: 1) comfortable wear, 2) clear vision, and 3) no damage to the eye. It is easy for patients to evaluate comfort and quality of vision; however, only an eye care provider can evaluate the health of the eye.
Prevent Blindness America offers the following recommendations for contact lens wearers:
- Always visit a licensed eye care professional to be fitted for contact lenses.
- Always wear contact lenses under the supervision of an eye care professional.
- Always clean and disinfect contact lenses according to instructions.
- Always store contact lenses properly in a clean storage case.
- Any time a problem is experienced, the contact lenses should be immediately removed and an eye care professional should be consulted.
Approval
This statement was written by the Community Program Committee of Prevent Blindness America and approved by the Prevent Blindness America board of directors in March,
2003.
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