If you wear contacts, you’ve probably wondered: Do I really need to update my prescription every year? As a Dana Point Optometrist, I get this question all the time. The short answer: yes, you do. And no—it’s not just about being able to order new lenses.
In California, your contact lens prescription legally expires after 12 months, which means you’ll need an annual check-in with your optometrist to keep things up to date. But beyond the legal piece, there are some very real reasons why that yearly exam matters for your eyes.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Yearly Contact Lens Exam
1. Your eyes change—even if you don’t feel it.
Your vision and eye health aren’t static. You might feel like your contacts are working fine, but subtle changes can happen in your cornea, tear film, or prescription that you don’t notice until they’re affecting comfort or clarity.
2. Comfort is relative.
Here’s the thing: a lot of patients think their contacts are “comfortable enough”—until they try a newer material and realize how much better it can get. Especially if you spend long hours on a computer or phone, upgrading to a lens with better oxygen flow and moisture retention can make a huge difference.
3. Fit matters.
The shape of your cornea can shift over time. A lens that used to fit perfectly might start rubbing the wrong way, leading to irritation or even long-term damage if left unchecked.
4. New tech = better lenses.
Contact lens technology is always evolving. Each year, new materials come out designed to keep eyes healthier and more comfortable. If you’re still wearing an older lens, you could be missing out.
5. Safety first.
Contacts are medical devices. Wearing the wrong prescription or an ill-fitting lens can raise your risk of dryness, infection, or corneal damage. Annual exams are your safety net.
Pro Tip: Daily Disposables Are a Game-Changer
If comfort is a priority (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want that?), single-use contact lenses are typically the most comfortable and least drying option. They’re especially great for people who:
- Spend long hours on screens
- Work in highly air-conditioned spaces (like hospitals or offices)
- Deal with dryness or irritation in other lenses
On top of comfort, daily disposables also have the lowest risk of complications since you’re starting fresh every day.
The Bottom Line
Your contact lens prescription isn’t just a number—it’s your ticket to clear, comfortable, and safe vision. In California, it expires every 12 months, but think of your yearly exam as more than a box to check. It’s your chance to make sure your eyes are healthy, your prescription is accurate, and that you’re wearing the best lenses for your lifestyle.
👁️✨ Don’t wait until your lenses feel “off” to upgrade—your next exam could unlock even more comfort than you realized was possible.
