Your first appointment at Northlake Eye Care typically takes about 60 minutes and includes a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health and vision.

1. Health & Vision History – We review your medical background, current medications, and any vision concerns you may have.

2. Pre-Test Screening – Digital measurements of eye pressure, corneal curvature, and retinal images help us evaluate your eyes and identify potential concerns.

3. Comprehensive Eye Exam – We refine your prescription, evaluate how your eyes work together, and check for conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

4. Personalized Consultation – We explain your results in plain language, answer your questions, and discuss appropriate treatment or eyewear options.

5. Optical Styling (Optional) – If needed, our opticians can help you select frames and lenses or assist with a contact lens fitting.

Yes. Contact lenses can be safe and comfortable when they are properly prescribed, fitted, worn, and cared for according to your eye-care professional's recommendations.

To help maintain healthy contact lens habits:

1. Wear only lenses approved by your eye-care professional.

2. Follow the recommended replacement schedule for your lenses, whether they are daily, bi-weekly, monthly, or another type.

3. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses.

4. Use fresh contact lens solution as directed and replace your lens case regularly.

5. Never sleep in contact lenses unless your eye-care professional has specifically approved them for overnight wear.

If you experience persistent redness, pain, unusual discharge, or changes in vision while wearing contact lenses, contact your eye-care professional promptly.

You may benefit from an eye exam at Northlake Eye Care if you experience changes or problems with your vision or eye comfort, including:

1. Blurry vision at any distance

2. Frequent headaches or eye strain, especially after screen time

3. Difficulty seeing at night or halos around lights

4. Redness, dryness, itching, or excessive tearing

5. Sudden flashes, new floaters, or loss of peripheral vision

6. Increased risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease

Even if you are not experiencing noticeable symptoms, regular comprehensive eye exams can help identify eye health concerns before they significantly affect your vision.

Yes. Northlake Eye Care is in-network with most major vision and medical insurance plans. We can verify your benefits ahead of your appointment, explain applicable out-of-pocket costs, and submit claims on your behalf.

If you are unsure whether your insurance plan covers an eye exam at Northlake Eye Care, contact our front desk with your insurance information and we can help verify your benefits.

Northlake Eye Care recommends several healthy habits that can support your overall eye health:

1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams – Comprehensive eye exams can help identify vision and eye health concerns early.

2. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule – When using digital screens for extended periods, every 20 minutes, look at something approximately 20 feet away for 20 seconds to help reduce digital eye strain.

3. Protect Your Eyes From UV Exposure – Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection when spending time outdoors.

4. Eat an Eye-Smart Diet – Leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, omega-3-rich fish, and adequate hydration can be part of a balanced diet that supports overall health.

5. Avoid Smoking – Smoking is associated with an increased risk of certain eye conditions, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

6. Manage Chronic Health Conditions – Work with your healthcare providers to manage conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

7. Use Proper Lighting and Ergonomics – Position computer screens slightly below eye level, reduce glare, and create a comfortable workspace to help reduce eye strain.

Yes. Many children can safely and comfortably wear contact lenses when they are properly fitted and the child and parent or guardian are committed to good hygiene and appropriate follow-up care.

The right age to begin wearing contact lenses varies from child to child. An eye-care professional can help determine whether contact lenses are appropriate based on the child's vision needs, maturity, hygiene habits, and ability to follow lens-care instructions.

Choosing the right glasses at Northlake Eye Care involves considering your prescription, face shape, lifestyle, activities, and personal preferences.

1. Start With Your Prescription

Your prescription helps determine which lens type and materials may be appropriate.

Single-vision lenses are designed for one primary viewing distance.

Multifocal or progressive lenses provide correction for multiple viewing distances.

Higher prescriptions may benefit from high-index lenses and appropriately sized frames to help minimize lens thickness.

2. Consider Your Face Shape

Different frame shapes can complement different facial features. Our optical team can help you explore frame styles that fit comfortably and suit your preferences.

3. Consider Your Lifestyle and Activities

Your daily activities can help determine which frame and lens features may work best for you.

Digital work: Depending on your needs, anti-fatigue lens options may be worth discussing with your eye-care professional.

Outdoor and sports activities: Impact-resistant lens materials, wraparound styles, and polarized sun options may be appropriate for certain activities.

Kids and active adults: Flexible frames, spring hinges, and durable lens materials may provide additional convenience and durability.

4. Choose the Right Frame Material

Different frame materials offer different benefits:

Acetate: Lightweight, available in a variety of colors and styles, and suitable for many wearers.

Metal: Options such as titanium and stainless steel can provide a sleek and durable frame choice.

Our optical team can help you compare frame and lens options based on your prescription, lifestyle, comfort, and personal preferences.