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Thinking About Contact Lenses? Here Is Everything You Need to Know Before You Switch

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If you have been searching for a contact lens eye exam near Hillcrest Mall or Upper Canada Mall, you are in the right place. At Dr. Elmalem & Associates, our optometry teams in Richmond Hill and Newmarket help patients safely switch to contact lenses every day. Whether you are trying contacts for the first time or looking for a better option than what you are currently wearing, this guide walks you through what to expect.

We answer all your top questions about getting started with contacts, how the fitting process works, which lenses are best, and how our clinic makes ordering and follow-ups simple.

 

What to Expect When Switching from Glasses to Contact Lenses

Most patients love the freedom that contacts offer. They are ideal for sports, travel, and active days when glasses might feel inconvenient. Contacts can also be a good option for people who want a glasses-free look without committing to vision correction surgery.

The most important step is making sure your eyes are healthy and that the lenses match your vision needs. At Dr. Elmalem & Associates, we fit patients as young as 8 and as experienced as 96. The key is comfort, safety, and lifestyle fit.

People with chronic dry eye or corneal issues may not be good candidates, but every case is different. We always start with a comprehensive eye exam before making a recommendation.

 

How Contact Lens Fitting Works at Our Practice

Getting a proper fit is essential for long-term comfort and healthy wear. That is why our contact lens fittings include:

  • A full eye health evaluation and updated prescription
  • Precise eye measurements using advanced corneal topography
  • A personalized lens selection based on your eye shape and lifestyle
  • One-on-one training for insertion, removal, and cleaning
  • A home trial with follow-up to assess comfort and vision

We only use top-quality, FDA-approved lenses from trusted manufacturers. Every lens is matched carefully to your eye shape, tear quality, and prescription.

Unlike generic online orders, we ensure that the brand, material, and lens design are right for you from day one.

 

Daily Disposables, Monthly Lenses, and More: What Is the Best Option?

At our clinics in Newmarket and Richmond Hill, daily disposable lenses are the most popular option. They are the healthiest and most convenient type of lens for most people. No cleaning is needed, and they reduce the risk of infections or buildup from extended wear.

Daily lenses are now available for:

  • Basic prescriptions
  • Astigmatism (toric lenses)
  • Reading and distance (multifocal lenses)

If your prescription does not allow for dailies, we also offer monthly and specialty lenses. We choose based on your lifestyle, activities, prescription, and budget. For example, daily disposables are ideal for water sports or anyone who wants a low-maintenance routine.

 

Easy Contact Lens Ordering, Reordering, and Free Shipping

You can order your lenses directly through our office by phone, in person, or online. We offer:

  • Free shipping on most orders
  • Fast home or office delivery
  • Online ordering with prescription management
  • In-office pickup for those who prefer it

Our pricing is competitive with online retailers, and we often beat online prices once manufacturer rebates are included.

When you buy from us, you also get:

  • Free prescription updates if your vision changes mid-year
  • Guaranteed lens exchanges
  • Direct support from your optometrist team

 

Insurance Coverage and Rebates for Contact Lenses

Yes, we accept most insurance plans and vision benefits. We can usually bill your insurance company directly, so you only pay the difference if there is one.

We also offer access to exclusive manufacturer rebates and annual supply discounts. These often make your lenses more affordable than third-party websites — plus you stay under the care of a professional team who knows your eyes.

 

Annual Checkups and the Top Contact Lens Mistakes to Avoid

Contact lenses are medical devices. Even if you feel great, we recommend coming in for a contact lens exam once a year. This helps us make sure your lenses are still fitting properly and your eyes remain healthy.

A few things every contact lens wearer should know:

  • Always wash your hands before inserting or removing lenses
  • If you wear monthly lenses, rub and rinse them daily — soaking alone is not enough
  • Never sleep in your lenses unless they are designed for overnight wear
  • Avoid swimming or showering with lenses unless they are dailies
  • Replace your lens case regularly and follow your cleaning schedule

We will walk you through all of this during your appointment, and we are always available to answer questions later on.

 

Ready to Get Started?

Our experienced team is here to help you make the switch to contacts with comfort and confidence. With locations inside LensCrafters at Hillcrest Mall (Richmond Hill) and Upper Canada Mall (Newmarket), we make it easy to access full-scope contact lens care.

Whether you are 15 or 75, wearing lenses for the first time or returning to them after a break, we will guide you through every step.

Book your contact lens consultation today and see the difference a personalized fit can make.

Book an Appointment to One of Our Two Locations
Upper Canada Mall (Newmarket) Hillcrest Mall (Richmond Hill)