How long do I need to be out of my contacts?

    Because different types of contact lenses affect the corneal shape, swelling, and oxygen level, they must not be worn for a prescribed length of time to allow your corneal tissue to equilibrate.  You must not have worn your lenses for the following length of time both before the full exam and before surgery:

 

  • Soft Contacts (non-astigmatism) 

7 full days before exam and surgery

  • Toric Soft Contacts (astigmatism) 

7 full days before exam and surgery

  • Rigid Gas Permeable (new hard lenses) with NO prior PMMA (old hard lenses) wear 

4 full weeks before exam and surgery

  • Rigid Gas Permeable WITH ANY prior PMMA (old hard lens) wear 

3 months before exam and surgery

  • Presently wearing PMMA (old hard lenses)

9 full months before exam and surgery

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