How Long Will It Take to Get Used to My New Contact Lenses?

That first moment putting in contacts is exciting! But if they feel weird at first, do not worry. Your eyes need adjustment time, so getting comfortable takes most people one to two weeks. Be patient and follow your eye doctor’s guidance closely.

The First Few Days: Expect Some Awkwardness

Your eyes might feel slightly irritated or watery initially. Blinking may seem different or louder. Vision might fluctuate between clear and blurry. Handling lenses feels clumsy at first. This is completely normal, temporary stuff. Wear them only as long as recommended daily.

Typical Adjustment Timelines

• Soft lenses – Three to seven days for most people.

• Rigid gas permeable (RGP) – One to two weeks (sometimes longer).

• Toric lenses (astigmatism) – Up to 10 days.

• Multifocal/progressive lenses – One to two weeks.

What “Normal Discomfort” Feels Like

Mild dryness by late afternoon is common. Occasional lens awareness occurs when blinking happens. Slight redness after removal might occur. Temporary sensitivity to wind or screens is normal. These fade as your eyes adapt. Persistent pain is NOT normal, though.

Troubleshooting Common Annoyances

Feeling something in your eye? Rinse the lens with solution and reinsert. Check for tiny tears or debris.

Blurry vision? Ensure the lens is centered on your cornea. Clean it properly if smudged.

Discomfort after hours? Use preservative-free rewetting drops approved for contacts.

Lenses pop out? Your fit might need adjustment – tell your eye doctor.

Pro Tips for Faster Adaptation

You can begin by wearing the lenses for only four hours on day one. Add one to two hours daily as tolerated. Always wash your hands before handling your lenses. Insert them before applying makeup. Remove lenses before taking makeup off. Keep your nails short to avoid lens damage. Stay hydrated throughout the day.

When Discomfort Signals Trouble

Call your eye doctor immediately if you experience:

• Sharp pain or burning that will not quit.

• Intense redness that looks like pink eye.

• Sudden light sensitivity or vision loss.

• Feeling like sand is in your eye.

• Swollen eyelids or unusual discharge.

These could indicate infection or improper fit. Do not “push through” severe pain.

Why Proper Fit Matters Hugely

Ill-fitting lenses cause most adjustment problems. RGPs need precise curvature matching. Toric lenses must align correctly with astigmatism. Multifocals require exact pupil measurements. Your eye doctor checks your fit at follow-ups. Speak up if something feels off!

Making Dry Eyes More Comfortable

Use hydrating drops made for contacts and avoid fans blowing directly on your face. Take regular screen breaks (20-20-20 rule) and consider switching to dailies if dryness persists. Ask about moisture-sealing lens materials. Humidifiers help in dry climates.

RGPs feel different than soft lenses; that is intentional. Multifocals take practice for seamless focus shifting, since perfect vision at all distances takes time. Some lens awareness might remain, but you should start feeling comfortable by week two.

Your Follow-Up Schedule Matters

Ideally, you should go back for a checkup with your doctor after one week. They will check lens movement and position and verify vision clarity. They will also assess your eye health and make any necessary adjustments or give you new prescriptions. Do not skip this visit!

For more about contact lenses, visit Elevate Eyecare of Frisco. Our office is in Frisco, Texas. Call (469) 966-2600 to book an appointment today.

https://www.allaboutvision.com/eyewear/eyeglasses/adjustment-time-for-new-glasses/

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/contact-lens-beginners