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How Much Does a Typical Contact Lens Exam Cost?
If you’re considering switching to contact lenses, understanding the exam and fitting process can help you make an informed decision. Contact lenses offer flexible, clear vision, but knowing what to expect in terms of cost and care ensures there are no surprises along the way.
The good news is that there are many types of contact lenses available, allowing you to find an option that suits both your vision needs and budget. If you’re hesitant about scheduling a contact lens exam because you’re unsure about the cost or what’s involved, Nationwide Vision is here to help. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what a contact lens exam includes and the factors that may influence the overall price.
What Affects the Cost of a Contact Lens Exam?
The cost of a contact lens exam can vary depending on several factors. On average, pricing ranges from $19 to over $250, depending on the complexity of the exam and the type of lenses prescribed. At Nationwide Vision, we provide clear pricing and help you navigate insurance coverage while ensuring you get the best contact lenses for your vision needs.
Here are some key factors that can impact the total cost of a contact lens exam:
Pre-Existing Eye Conditions: If you have conditions like dry eye, astigmatism, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy, additional tests may be required to ensure a proper contact lens fit, which can increase the exam cost.
Type and Brand of Lenses: Specialty contact lenses—such as toric lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses for presbyopia, or rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses—are typically more expensive than standard soft lenses.
Prescription Strength: Higher or more complex prescriptions may require customized lenses or specific brands, which can impact the overall price.
Additional Lens Features: Some contact lenses include UV protection, moisture-enhancing technology, or color-enhancing tints, which may add to the cost.
Discuss Your Contact Lens Options at Nationwide Vision
We understand that investing in contacts can be overwhelming, which is why our eye care professionals are here to answer all of your questions. From finding the right contacts for your eyes to discussing expenses and insurance coverage, we’re here to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision. Schedule your appointment today to get started.
How Different Contact Lenses Impact Cost
The total cost of contact lenses isn’t just about the exam—the type of lenses you choose plays a major role in your overall expenses. Below is a general pricing guide, though costs may fluctuate based on brand, supplier, and lens 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.
Since contact lenses aren’t one-size-fits-all, it’s essential to choose lenses that provide both clear vision and long-term comfort. At Nationwide Vision, we offer a wide selection of specialty contact lenses to ensure you find the best match for your vision needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Other Cost Factors to Consider for Contact Lenses
When budgeting for contact lenses, it’s important to consider potential cost savings through vision insurance. Many insurance plans help cover a portion of exam and lens expenses, reducing your out-of-pocket costs. Depending on your location, vision insurance typically ranges from $150 to $180 per year and often includes $120 toward contact lenses or eyeglasses, full or partial coverage for a standard eye exam, and prescription lens coverage for glasses. At Nationwide Vision, we accept major insurers like United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, VSP, and EyeMed. Our team is happy to assist with insurance-related questions and ensure you’re making the most of your vision benefits.
Once you’ve adjusted to wearing contacts, renewing your prescription is a much simpler process. As long as your lenses fit comfortably and your eyes remain healthy, future appointments may only require a quick prescription update. If you ever experience discomfort or changes in vision, don’t hesitate to speak with your Nationwide Vision optometrist—we’re here to ensure you continue seeing clearly and comfortably with the best contact lenses for you.
What to Expect During Your Contact Lens Exam
A comprehensive eye exam at Nationwide Vision evaluates your 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 secure fit, and long-lasting comfort.
A contact lens exam goes beyond a standard eye exam by including specialized tests to assess your eye shape, tear production, and lens compatibility. These tests are quick, painless, and essential for finding the right contact lenses for you. Here’s what to expect during your visit to Nationwide Vision:
Measuring the Curvature of Your Cornea: Your doctor will use a keratometer to assess your cornea’s shape, ensuring a precise lens fit.
Measuring Your Pupils and Irises: These measurements help position your lenses correctly for optimal clarity and comfort.
Evaluating Tear Film Quality: Your doctor will check for dry eye symptoms, as poor tear production can lead to contact lens discomfort.
Examining Eye Health and Lens Fit: Using a magnification device, your doctor will inspect the surface of your eye to ensure that your lenses fit properly and 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. If adjustments are needed, your optometrist will refine your prescription or recommend a different lens type. At Nationwide Vision, we’re dedicated to helping you find the best vision correction solution—whether that means contact lenses, glasses, or both. Your eye health, comfort, and clear vision are our top priorities!
Comprehensive Eye Care
At Nationwide Vision, our trusted team of highly trained eye care professionals focuses on maintaining the health of your eyes with comprehensive eye care, including routine eye exams, preventative care, and treatment.
Specialty Contact Lenses
If you have poor vision and are living with an eye disease or condition, trust the team at Nationwide Vision to help you see more clearly and comfortably with specialty contact lenses.
Schedule a Contact Lens Fitting at Nationwide Vision
Finding the right contact lenses should be simple, comfortable, and affordable. At Nationwide Vision, we’re dedicated to delivering high-quality eye care with flexible insurance options to make vision correction accessible for everyone. Our experienced team will help you find contact lenses that fit properly, enhance your vision, and suit your daily routine.
If you’re ready to explore contact lenses, schedule an exam at your nearest Nationwide Vision location. Our optometrists are here to answer your questions about exams, fittings, pricing, and insurance coverage—so you can make an informed decision about your eye health. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward clear, comfortable vision with Nationwide Vision!