How Much Does a Contact Lens Exam Cost?

What Impacts the Cost of a Contact Lens Eye Exam?

The cost of an eye exam and contact lens fitting can vary, but there are typically a few factors that impact your total expenses. A typical contact lens exam ranges anywhere from $19 to over $250. The eye care team at Clarkson Eyecare works with you to answer any questions about costs and help determine if exams are included in your insurance plan.

Some factors that impact the cost of a contact lens exam include:

• Whether or not you have certain pre-existing eye conditions that may complicate the lens fitting, such as cataracts, dry eye, or diabetic retinopathy.

• The brand of lenses you'll need.

• The strength of your contact prescription, which can influence the brand or lens type your doctor recommends.

• Additive features, such as eye color enhancement.

Different Types of Contact Lenses and Cost Considerations

Contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all, and it’s important to choose a lens that is comfortable and provides the vision help you need. View more information about Clarkson Eyecare’s specialty contact lenses to see which lens is right for you. Beyond the cost of the contact lens exam, the type of contacts you select will directly impact your final expenses. Here's a cheat sheet to give you an idea of what to expect (note that prices vary over time, so this is an estimate only):

Rigid Gas-Permeable Lenses

Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses are made from a firm, durable material that allows oxygen to pass through to the eye. Unlike soft contact lenses, these lenses keep their shape well, which can provide crisp vision for some wearers. They are sometimes recommended for people with certain vision needs or for those who want a long-lasting lens option.

Because rigid gas-permeable lenses are more durable than many other types of contacts and may last up to a year with proper care, they are often one of the most expensive options on a per-lens basis. While the upfront cost may be higher, some people find that their longer lifespan helps offset replacement costs over time. However, you may still need to budget for cleaning solutions, storage cases, and follow-up appointments.

Daily Disposable Lenses

Daily disposable lenses are designed to be worn once and thrown away at the end of the day. Many people choose them for their convenience, since they do not require nightly cleaning or storage. They can also be a good option for people with busy schedules, occasional contact lens wearers, or those who prefer starting each day with a fresh pair.

That convenience can come with a higher total yearly cost. Daily disposable lenses typically range from about $720 to $960 per year, depending on the brand, prescription, and how often you wear them. Buying in larger quantities may help reduce the overall cost, but they are usually still more expensive over time than lenses replaced less often.

Multifocal or Bifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal and bifocal contact lenses are designed to help correct both near and distance vision in one lens. These lenses are often used by people who need help seeing clearly at multiple distances and want an alternative to wearing reading glasses over contacts or switching between different pairs of glasses.

Because these lenses have a more specialized design, they tend to cost more than standard single-vision contacts. Depending on the brand, prescription, and replacement schedule, multifocal or bifocal contact lenses may cost up to $1,500 per year. The fitting process can also be more involved, which may affect your overall contact lens exam and fitting costs.

Colored Contact Lenses

Colored contact lenses are available for both cosmetic and vision-correcting purposes. Some people wear them to enhance or change the appearance of their eye color, while others choose prescription colored contacts that also help correct their vision. These lenses come in a variety of shades and styles, from subtle enhancement tints to more noticeable color changes.

In general, colored contact lenses typically cost between $45 and $90 for a box of six. The exact price depends on whether the lenses are cosmetic only or include vision correction. Specialty colored contacts, including options that also correct astigmatism, often cost more than standard colored lenses. As with any contact lenses, it is important to have them properly fitted and prescribed by an eye doctor.

Contact Lenses and Vision Insurance: Cost Factors to Consider

When determining the total cost of your contact lenses, don't forget about possible offsets that may bring the price down. Check to see if your regular health insurance has an optical benefit or a supplemental vision plan that may cover a part of the lens cost. Vision insurance plans may run between $150 to $180 annually depending on where you live.

In addition to covering around $120 for either contact lenses or eyeglasses, they may also include the full amount of a standard eye exam, as well as the prescription lens costs for glasses. At Clarkson Eyecare, our major insurers include United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, VSP and EyeMed. Our team is always happy to answer any insurance questions and help you determine what services are covered. If you have specific questions or concerns about your insurance coverage, contact the Clarkson Eyecare team.

After you receive your lenses and wear them successfully, keep in mind that getting a new prescription the next time should be easier. Once you and your Clarkson Eyecare doctor confirm the fit is still comfortable and your eyes are healthy, future visits may simply involve checking your prescription and updating if necessary. Always be open and honest about how your contact lenses work for you, and your eye doctor will ensure you find the right option for your vision!

What to Expect During Your Initial Contact Lens Eye Exam

A regular eye exam or comprehensive eye exam at Clarkson Eyecare provides an overall picture of your eye health. During these exams, your optometrist will determine the best vision care plan based on your eye health.

Contact lens exams at Clarkson Eyecare go one step further, designed specifically for contact lens wearers or those interested in wearing them. These exams are similar but include additional specialized tests. The initial fitting is intended to ensure your new lenses help you see well and fit comfortably and safely. Your optometrist will measure your eyes in a few different ways and conduct different tests. If this isn't done properly, your lenses could cause discomfort or might damage your eyes. But don't worry, these tests aren't invasive and won't take very long. Here's what to expect at Clarkson Eyecare:

• The doctor will use a keratometer to measure the curvature of your cornea. They will also measure your pupils and irises, otherwise known as the colored part of the eye.

• Your optometrist will inspect your tear film to make sure you don't have any severe dry eye lurking. If dry eye symptoms are present, your lenses may not feel comfortable.

• Your doctor will also look at your eyes through a device that magnifies them to ensure they're healthy and to check lens fit.

Keep in mind that as part of the fitting process, you may have one or two follow-up visits to ensure that the prescribed lenses are right for you. During this period, you can try different types of lenses to determine which contacts are right for you. This trial period allows you to see if wearing contacts is comfortable for you, or if a pair of glasses would be a better option. When correcting your vision, Clarkson Eyecare wants to be sure that you are comfortable with whatever you choose.