What does a typical contact lens prescription include?

A typical contact lens prescription encompasses essential parameters that ensure the proper fit and visual correction for the wearer. The inclusion of sphere power, cylinder power, and axis refers to the spherical and astigmatic correction needed for the patient's vision, with the sphere power addressing nearsightedness or farsightedness, while the cylinder and axis measurements are specifically for astigmatism.

In addition to these refractive components, the base curve and diameter are critical as they determine how the lens will fit over the cornea. The base curve affects how the lens sits on the eye's surface, which is vital for comfort and proper positioning, while the diameter impacts the overall size of the lens, affecting how it covers the cornea.

Focusing solely on just a brand name, visual attributes like color, or only partial specifications like sphere power and base curve would not provide the comprehensive information needed for successful contact lens fitting. This thoroughness in the prescription ensures the patient receives lenses tailored to their individual eye shape and vision needs, promoting both visual acuity and eye health.