One in four teenagers need vision correction. If you’re the one in four, you’ve probably been wearing glasses for a while. You already know if you’re shortsighted, longsighted or if you have astigmatism, the three most common vision issues that come to light when you’re young.
For now, put aside the idea of laser eye (or refractive) surgery. It’s something to consider when you’re in your twenties. Glasses may be still your best option. If you feel that you’re ready for contact lenses, talk to your parents. However, your parents and your eye care professional may decide that it’s best for you to wait. Your eyes will continue to change throughout your lifetime, so contact lenses may be an appropriate solution in the future.
Ready for Contacts?
How can you tell if you’re ready for contact lenses? There’s really no set age. Your eye care professional may suggest contact lenses when you’re as young as 11 years old, or even younger. You do need to make a commitment to taking care of your contact lenses on a daily basis, unless you choose a daily disposable lens that you wear for a day, then, throw them away. We can help you learn the basics of contact lens wear and care; what to look for in a contact lens, how to wear and care for contact lenses, etc in our teens and contact lenses section.
It’s up to you and your parents to determine if you’re ready for this responsibility.
Special Note for Parents
You are the most qualified person to judge your teen’s readiness for contact lenses. For information about contact lens care, the kinds of contact lenses available, the cost of lenses compared to glasses and the things your teen will need to do to wear contact lenses in the healthiest way see our parents’ guide to contact lenses.