Is seeing believing? 6 eye exam myths debunked.

Disclaimer: The Myth-Busters Department at 1-800 Contacts are professionals. While each myth is debunked safely by our team of experts, there may be explosive and dangerously good content ahead. Do not try this at home.

Eye exams play an important role in our lives, helping us keep our eyes healthy and our vision corrected. But beyond the stuffy exam room, bright lights and that air puff machine-thingy is a treasure trove of eye exam myths waiting to be debunked. And while we didn’t have time to debunk all 3,443 of them (our Myth-Busting Department runs a tight schedule), we decided to join heads and debunk the six most common myths.

So, fasten your seatbelts and put on your fanciest protection goggles, because here we go.

Myth #1: People enjoy going to the eye doctor every year to get contacts they already wear

Reality: False. And if you say otherwise, you’re lying. ;) The truth is, if your eyes are healthy, you’re younger than 60 years old, and you really dig your current contacts, you may not need to call your eye doctor the second your prescription expires. With online vision exams now a common, convenient service, you can renew your vision prescription online with a simple ten-minute exam—no appointment necessary.

Myth #2: Online vision exams are a totally, 100% valid way to get a prescription

Reality: This one’s true. While we can’t speak for other online vision exams out there (the internet is a scary place), our vision exam, ExpressExam, is a fast and affordable way to renew your current prescription or get matched with a different brand or lens type. All prescriptions are doctor-issued and can be used anywhere contact lenses are sold.

Myth #3: Renewing your prescription online could save you $100

Reality: True. Comprehensive eye exams from an optometrist can be expensive, especially if you don’t have financial support from vision insurance. Even if you’re just renewing your prescription, a visit to your eye doctor could range anywhere from $50-$250. Renewing your prescription online though? Just $20 with ExpressExam.

Myth #4: You're stuck with the same contacts brand forever

Reality: Totally false. (Did you picture Squints from the movie The Sandlot saying, “Forrr-ev-vurr” over and over? Because same.) A common myth that seems to only get stronger with time is that you’re stuck with whatever brand of contacts your eye doctor prescribes. And while that may have been the case

back in the day (when The Sandlot was still in theaters), the truth is you may have more options than you realize.

So how do you know if there are other contacts brands for you? Take an online vision exam and the ophthalmologist may issue multiple prescriptions based on your exam results. Super easy.

Myth #5: You can switch from a monthly lens to a daily lens without an office visit

Reality: Yes indeed. If you want to switch lens types (AKA “modalities”), you can take a $20 online vision exam. If your prescription is compatible and the reviewing ophthalmologist approves, they’ll issue a prescription for daily contacts, too. Perfect for an upcoming trip or event where you want something more travel ready.

Myth #6: You need to block out an hour of your day to renew your prescription

Reality: Wrong-o, friend. If you’re still doing this, we’ve got great news for you. You can skip the scheduling, phone calls, driving, parking, waiting, and the whooole enchilada. In fact, you don’t even need to change out of your pajamas.

With our online vision exam, you can do it all from home—and it only takes ten minutes to complete. Your results will be emailed to you usually within two business hours, so technically, you just saved more than an hour of your day. You’re welcome.

A final word from The Myth-Busting Department

Looking after your eyes regularly is important stuff. Thankfully, there are several tools available at your fingertips to make it easier. From routine eye care appointments to renewing your prescription online, it’s never been more convenient or affordable to get the care you need.

Now that we’ve busted these common eye exam myths, we hope you can feel more confident taking your next eye exam. Until next time, myth-busting squad. Stay dangerously cool.

*Cue end credits*

Oh, there aren’t any end credits? That’s awkward.

Take an easy, online vision exam today. Try ExpressExam.

Did you know you can order contacts online?

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!