Lets Talk About Contact Lenses

There are so many advantages to contact lens wear, yet the number of ametropic people wearing contact lenses is astonishingly low.  In this article, we will discuss the benefits of contact lens wear, common misconceptions about contact lenses that need to be addressed and a systematic way to approach the topic with your patient and successfully convert them to contact lenses.

One of the primary benefits of contact lenses is the visual freedom they offer, which is particularly beneficial for those patients who lead a more active lifestyle for example those going to the gym regularly or doing yoga or doing any kind of outdoor sports or activity on a regular basis.  Or you might have those patients who just don't want to wear spectacles.  From daily disposables to Orthokeratology, patients can find lenses that suit their lifestyles.  Plus the newest generation of silicone hydrogel and hydrogel materials are engineered to retain moisture and allow better oxygen flow to the cornea.  Furthermore, with the latest moulding and lathing technologies, soft as well as rigid contact lenses can be completely customised to correct all refractive errors or to fit any cornea.

Now, from a business standpoint introducing contact lenses into your practice can open up a new stream of revenue. Remember, contact lens patients are much more loyal than spectacle only patients as they'll keep returning to your practice for their checkups as well as to replenish their contact lens supply.  

So now we know all the advantages of recommending contact lenses to our patients, however, many practitioners are still unsure on how to actually approach the topic with their patients.  So let's dive into some effect effective ways on how to start the conversation about contact lenses.  

As part of your history taking ensure you ask questions about their daily activities their lifestyle and any challenges they might be facing with their existing eyewear. This helps create a connection and sets the stage for opening a conversation about contact and how you can tailor them to your patient's unique needs.  This will encourage your patient to share their views their preferences and their opinions on the matter, allowing the conversation to flow more naturally and providing valuable insights into their mindset.  

Many patients might have misconceptions about contact lenses, such as, discomfort, difficulty in handling, or even fear of eye infections.  Take the time to address these by asking questions like, 'Is there anything about contact lenses that makes you hesitant?'. This allows you to identify and alleviate any fears they may have, fostering trust and making them more receptive to the idea.

Once you have established a comfortable dialogue, highlight the benefits of contact lenses. Emphasize aspects such as visual freedom, enhanced peripheral vision, and suitability for various lifestyles. Sharing success stories or testimonials from other patients can also be a powerful way to showcase the positive impact of contact lenses.

Consider incorporating hands-on demonstrations during your conversation. Show them different types of contact lenses, explain how to insert and remove them, and address common misconceptions. This interactive approach not only educates your patients but also boosts their confidence in considering contact lenses as a viable option.

Remember, one size doesn't fit all. Customize your recommendations based on the patient's lifestyle, preferences, and visual needs. Whether it's daily or monthly disposables, or specialty lenses, offering personalized solutions enhances the patient's overall experience and satisfaction.

Initiating conversations about contact lenses is an art that evolves with practice and experience. By being attentive, empathetic, and informative, we can guide our patients toward eye care solutions that truly enhance their quality of life.

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