If you want to wear contact lenses, you need a contact lens fitting in addition to your regular sight test. This is a specialist appointment that ensures your lenses fit correctly, provide clear vision, and are safe for your eyes. Contact lens check-ups are also legally required at least once a year.
A contact lens fitting typically costs £30 to £60 at most UK opticians. This covers detailed measurements of your eye surface, assessment of your tear film, selection of the appropriate lens type and material, trial lenses to check fit and vision, and a teach session for new wearers (how to insert, remove, and care for lenses). Many opticians include the fitting fee as part of a monthly contact lens plan, so you may not need to pay it separately.
Annual contact lens check-ups are essential and legally required. Your contact lens prescription (specification) is only valid while your check-ups are up to date. During a check-up, your optician will assess the fit of your current lenses, check the health of the surface of your eyes, update your prescription if needed, and ensure you are not experiencing any complications. Check-ups typically take 15 to 30 minutes and are often included in monthly lens plans.
Monthly contact lens plans at the major chains start from around £8 to £12 per month for daily disposable lenses, and typically include the lenses themselves, solutions (for reusable lenses), annual check-ups, and sometimes a sight test. These plans offer convenience and often work out cheaper than buying lenses and appointments separately.
It is important to understand that a sight test and a contact lens appointment are separate services. Your sight test checks your overall vision and eye health and provides a glasses prescription. The contact lens appointment determines your contact lens prescription, which includes additional measurements specific to lenses. You need both — a glasses prescription cannot be used to order contact lenses.