It’s easy to forget how involved contact lenses really are — they sit directly on your eyes, help you see clearly, and, if they’re fitted correctly, you shouldn’t even feel them. But when your contacts start to bother you, it’s not just uncomfortable — it can also be a sign that something’s changed with your eyes, your lenses, or both.
And in a place like New York City, where we treat a wide range of contact lens wearers every day, we see it all the time. Whether you're wearing dailies, multifocals, or scleral lenses, fit matters. At Manhattan Vision Associates, we take precise measurements during your contact lens exam to ensure your lenses match your eye shape, prescription, and lifestyle needs.
Signs Your Contact Lenses Might Not Fit Properly
Contact lenses that don’t properly fit aren’t just annoying — they can damage your corneas or lead to infections if ignored. Here are some common warning signs that something isn’t quite right:
- Persistent discomfort after insertion
- Redness or irritation that doesn’t go away
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Excessive tearing or dry eyes
- Feeling like something is in your eye
- Light sensitivity
- Lenses that move excessively or dislodge easily
If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, it's time to have your lenses evaluated — especially if it’s been more than a year since your last fit check.
Why Contact Lens Fit Can Change Over Time
Even if your contacts used to fit perfectly, they might not anymore — and that’s totally normal. Your eyes change gradually with age, health, and environmental conditions, and your lenses may not keep up.
Corneal Changes
The shape of your cornea can shift due to eye conditions like keratoconus or post-surgical effects. Even subtle changes in curvature can make a lens feel too tight, too loose, or unstable on the eye.
Natural Aging
As you get older, tear production decreases, and your eyes may become drier. This affects how your lenses interact with your eye’s surface, often leading to discomfort or a gritty sensation that wasn’t there before.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Life events like pregnancy or menopause can cause hormonal shifts that change your eye’s moisture balance and corneal thickness — both of which affect lens fit and comfort.
Overwearing Lenses
Wearing your lenses for longer than recommended can irritate your eyes and cause subtle damage to the corneal surface. This can lead to inflammation, making your lenses feel foreign even when they're technically the correct size.
Eye Infections or Allergies
Any inflammation in the eye, whether from an infection or seasonal allergies, can change the way your lenses fit. Swelling or excessive tearing alters how the lens sits on the eye and how long it stays comfortable.
Lifestyle or Environment
Spending more time indoors, using screens, or working in dry, climate-controlled spaces can dry out your lenses and eyes. These factors can turn a previously perfect lens fit into a daily annoyance if not adjusted for.
What to Expect from a Contact Lens Refit at Manhattan Vision Associates
If you’re noticing discomfort or blurry vision with your current lenses, a contact lens refit is a straightforward process. Our team at Manhattan Vision Associates in New York City will:
- Evaluate your current lenses: We check how the lenses sit on your eyes and whether they meet your current vision needs.
- Perform detailed measurements: We assess corneal curvature, tear film, and eye surface health using advanced diagnostic equipment.
- Try new lens options if needed: You may test new materials or brands, including toric lenses for astigmatism or scleral lenses for complex cases.
- Send you home with a trial pair: Most patients leave with trial lenses to test in their daily environment — so we can see what really works.
- Follow up and fine-tune: After a week or so, you’ll come back for adjustments if needed. We make sure your lenses stay comfortable and safe.
Get Contact Lenses That Fit in New York City
If your contact lenses feel off, they probably are. The right fit isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity for healthy eyes and dependable vision. At Manhattan Vision Associates, our experienced eye doctors make sure your contacts work with your eyes, not against them. Book your contact lens exam, we’re here to help you find a better fit — and better clarity.
Contact Lens Fit FAQs
How do I know if my contact lenses are too tight?
Tight-fitting lenses often cause redness, eye fatigue, and blurry vision after several hours of contact lens wear. They may also feel hard to remove or stick to your eyes.
Is it normal for contact lenses to shift in my eye?
Lenses should stay centred. If they move around often or slide out of place, it may indicate an improper fit or the wrong lens size.
Can contact lens fit issues cause long-term damage?
If left unaddressed, poorly fitting contacts can lead to corneal abrasions, infections, and long-term vision problems. Regular check-ins prevent most of these issues.