What Can You Expect a Contact Lens Exam to Cost?

What Impacts the Cost of a Contact Lens Exam?

The cost of a contact lens exam can vary based on several factors. On average, you can expect prices to range from $19 to over $250, depending on the complexity of the exam and the type of lenses you need. At eyecarecenter, our team is here to help you understand exam costs, insurance coverage, and your best options for contact lenses. Here are some key factors that may affect the cost of your contact lens exam:

• Pre-Existing Eye Conditions: If you have astigmatism, dry eye, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy, your exam may require extra testing or a customized lens fitting, which can increase costs. 

• Lens Type and Brand: Specialty lenses—such as toric lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses for presbyopia, or rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses—tend to be more expensive than standard soft lenses. 

• Prescription Complexity: If you have a stronger prescription or need high-powered lenses, your doctor may recommend specific brands or types of lenses that can impact pricing. 

• Additional Lens Features: Contact lenses with UV protection, color enhancement, or moisture-lock technology may cost more than standard options.

Types of Contact Lenses and Their Costs

The overall cost of contact lenses isn’t just about the exam—the type of lenses you choose significantly affects your total expenses. Below is a general guide to expected pricing, though costs may vary depending on the brand, supplier, and any additional features.

• Rigid gas-permeable lenses can last a year or more, making them one of the most expensive per lens but a cost-effective option over time. 

• Daily disposable lenses are designed to be replaced every day, ranging from $720 to $960 per year. Buying in bulk may help lower costs. 

• Multifocal or bifocal contact lenses correct both near and far vision and tend to be more expensive, with annual costs reaching up to $1,500. 

• Colored contact lenses generally range from $45 to $90 per box of six, though colored lenses designed for astigmatism correction may be more expensive. 

Because contact lenses aren’t one-size-fits-all, choosing the right lenses is key to clear vision and lasting comfort. At eyecarecenter, we offer a variety of specialty contact lenses to ensure you find the best fit for your vision, lifestyle, and budget.

Additional Contact Lens Cost Factors to Consider

When considering the total cost of contact lenses, don’t forget about potential savings. Many vision insurance plans cover part of the expenses for eye exams, contact lenses, and prescription glasses. Depending on where you live, vision insurance may range from $150 to $180 per year and typically provides $120 toward contact lenses or eyeglasses, full or partial coverage for a standard eye exam, and prescription lens coverage for glasses. At eyecarecenter, we accept major insurers like United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, VSP, and EyeMed. Our team is happy to answer insurance-related questions and help you maximize your benefits.

Once you’ve successfully adjusted to your first pair of contact lenses, renewing your prescription becomes simpler. As long as your lenses remain comfortable and your eyes stay healthy, future appointments may only require a quick prescription update. Always communicate any changes or concerns with your eyecarecenter optometrist—we’re here to ensure you continue to enjoy clear, comfortable vision with the right contact lenses.

What to Expect During Your Contact Lens Exam

A comprehensive eye exam at eyecarecenter evaluates your overall vision and eye health, but if you’re considering contact lenses, a specialized contact lens exam is necessary. This additional exam ensures your lenses provide clear vision, a proper fit, and all-day comfort.

A contact lens exam includes specialized tests that go beyond a standard eye exam. These tests are quick, painless, and designed to assess your eye shape, tear production, and overall lens compatibility. Here’s what to expect during your visit to eyecarecenter:

• Measuring the Curvature of Your Cornea: Using a keratometer, your doctor will assess the shape of your cornea to ensure the best lens fit. 

• Measuring Your Pupils and Irises: These measurements help align the lenses correctly for optimal clarity and comfort. 

• Evaluating Tear Film Quality: Your doctor will check for dry eye symptoms since poor tear production can cause contact lens discomfort. 

• Examining Eye Health and Lens Fit: A magnification device allows your doctor to detect any underlying eye conditions and confirm that your contacts fit safely. 

To ensure the best fit and vision, you may need one or two follow-up visits. This trial period allows you to test different lens types to find the most comfortable and effective option for your needs. If adjustments are necessary, your optometrist will fine-tune your prescription or lens type to achieve the best results. At eyecarecenter, our priority is to help you find the best vision solution—whether that’s contact lenses, glasses, or both. Your comfort, eye health, and clear vision are always our top priorities!

Schedule a Contact Lens Fitting at eyecarecenter

Finding the right contact lenses should be simple, comfortable, and affordable. At eyecarecenter, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality eye care with flexible insurance options to make vision correction accessible. Our experienced team ensures your contacts fit properly, enhance your vision, and align with your budget.

If you’re considering contact lenses, schedule an exam at your nearest eyecarecenter location. Our eye care professionals are here to answer your questions about exams, fittings, costs, and insurance coverage, so you can make the best decision for your eye health and lifestyle. Book your appointment today!

Schedule a Contact Lens Exam