After fitting and dispensing continuous wear contact lenses, when should the patient be seen for a follow-up?

The recommended follow-up time after fitting and dispensing continuous wear contact lenses is typically the following morning. This immediate follow-up allows the practitioner to assess how well the lenses are tolerated by the patient overnight, as continuous wear lenses are designed to be worn for extended periods, including overnight. During this visit, the practitioner can evaluate the fitting of the lenses, check for any signs of discomfort or complications, and ensure that the lenses are performing as expected. Early assessment is crucial since it allows for timely intervention if any issues arise.

In contrast, other timelines, such as a follow-up in 2 weeks or in 1 week, may not provide an adequate opportunity to address potential immediate concerns that could affect the health of the patient's eyes or the overall success of the contact lens wear. A follow-up within 2 days may also be too soon if the practitioner plans to evaluate a response to overnight wear; however, the following morning allows for the most appropriate and immediate feedback on the patient's experience with the new lenses.