A Comprehensive Eye Exam Comes First with Dr. Bernstein Before embarking on a contact lens fitting at La Jolla Optiks, Dr. Colin R. Bernstein, O.D., insists on a thorough comprehensive eye exam to lay the groundwork for optimal vision correction and eye health. Drawing on his over 45 years of expertise, Dr. Bernstein determines your precise prescription for corrective lenses (starting with a glasses baseline) while meticulously screening for any underlying eye health concerns—like corneal irregularities, dry eye, or other factors—that could impact successful contact lens wear. If everything checks out during this foundational exam, you’ll seamlessly transition to a personalized contact lens consultation and fitting, tailored to your unique needs.

The journey begins with Dr. Bernstein exploring your lifestyle and preferences to ensure your contacts align perfectly with your daily routine—whether you’re eyeing color-enhancing lenses for a fresh look, daily disposables for convenience, or extended-wear options for uninterrupted vision. While soft lenses remain the go-to for most, Dr. Bernstein, a national leader in specialty fittings, will thoughtfully weigh the benefits of rigid gas permeable (GP) lenses, especially for those with keratoconus or severe dry eye. For patients over 40 navigating bifocal needs, he’ll guide you through multifocal designs or monovision strategies—one lens optimizing distance, the other near—to maintain sharp vision across all distances without compromise.

Contact Lens Measurements

Precision at the Core

Just as no two eyes are alike, Dr. Bernstein customizes every fitting to your eye’s unique contours—because a mismatched lens can spell discomfort or risk. Key measurements he performs include:

• Corneal Curvature: Using a keratometer, Dr. Bernstein gauges the curve of your cornea’s front surface, selecting the ideal base curve and diameter for seamless comfort and fit. If astigmatism introduces irregularities, he’ll recommend toric lenses—once exclusive to GP designs but now available in soft, disposable, multifocal, extended-wear, and colored varieties to suit your life. For complex cases, corneal topography creates a vivid color-coded “map” of your eye’s surface, revealing nuances that inform his renowned specialty lens solutions.
• Pupil and Iris Size: These dimensions guide lens design, particularly for GP options, measured via biomicroscope or simple templates—ensuring lenses move naturally with your gaze.
• Tear Film Evaluation: Success with contacts hinges on robust hydration, so Dr. Bernstein assesses your tear quality using dye under slit-lamp illumination or a Schirmer strip test. If dry eyes are a concern—a specialty of his practice—he’ll advise on moisture-preserving materials or even recommend alternatives, prioritizing your long-term comfort.

Trial Lenses

Testing the Fit in Real Time

To confirm the perfect match, Dr. Bernstein applies trial lenses and observes their behavior through the slit lamp as you blink and shift directions, fine-tuning for ideal positioning and movement. You’ll wear them for at least 15 minutes to let initial tearing subside and your tear film equilibrate, then share your comfort feedback. Once satisfied, he’ll equip you with hands-on training for insertion, removal, and care—empowering you to integrate contacts effortlessly into your routine.

Follow-Up Visits

Safeguarding Your Eye Health

Dr. Bernstein’s commitment extends beyond the initial fitting with scheduled follow-ups to verify fit, monitor tolerance, and catch subtle issues early—using dyes to detect corneal stress or dryness before they escalate. His vigilant eye often spots warning signs you might miss, prompting adjustments like a lens swap, material tweak, revised care regimen, or wearing schedule. In rare instances, he’ll advise pausing contact use to protect your vision, always with your eye wellness first.

Your Personalized Contact Lens Prescription

Satisfied with a lens that delivers crisp vision and flawless fit? Dr. Bernstein will craft your prescription, detailing power, base curve, diameter—and for GP lenses, additional parameters like edge design. This empowers you to order confidently, with his guidance ensuring ongoing success.

Routine Contact Lens Exams

Annual Vigilance No matter your wear frequency or duration, Dr. Bernstein recommends yearly exams at La Jolla Optiks (9834 Genesee Avenue, Suite 209, La Jolla, CA 92037—call 858-457-1200 to schedule) to confirm your eyes remain resilient against lens-related effects, preserving the health he’s championed for decades.