Our Commitment to Safe Contact Lens Care

Darlington Opticians is an established independent opticians and contact lens practice providing professional fitting, clinical assessment, and ongoing aftercare for all contact lens wearers. We offer contact lens fitting and care as part of our full range of optometric services.

We are committed to ensuring that every patient receives safe, comfortable, and effective contact lens wear supported by evidence‑based practice, accredited clinicians, and modern diagnostic technology such as OCT scanning where clinically relevant.

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Contact Lens Fitting

All new contact lens wearers undergo a professional fitting appointment which includes:

• Assessment of eye health

• Measurement of corneal shape and tear film

• Selection of suitable lens type and material

• Instruction on insertion, removal, and hygiene

• Trial lenses where appropriate

• Safety guidance tailored to lifestyle and prescription

Our opticians are accredited to provide urgent and emergency eye care, ensuring safe management of any complications that may arise during lens wear.

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Aftercare Appointments

Regular aftercare appointments are essential for maintaining eye health and safe lens use. These appointments allow us to:

• Check lens fit and comfort

• Assess corneal and conjunctival health

• Review tear film stability

• Update prescriptions

• Identify early signs of complications

• Provide advice on lens hygiene and replacement schedules

We recommend:

• Annual aftercare for most wearers

• More frequent reviews for new wearers, children, or those with dry eye or medical conditions

• Immediate review if symptoms occur

 

Hygiene & Safe Handling

To reduce the risk of infection or complications, patients must follow these essential rules:

Always

• Wash and dry hands before touching lenses

• Use fresh solution every time

• Clean and replace lens cases regularly

• Follow the recommended replacement schedule

• Keep lenses away from water (including showers and swimming)

• Remove lenses before sleeping unless using approved extended‑wear lenses

Never

• Use saliva to wet lenses

• Wear lenses longer than recommended

• Re‑use or “top up” solution

• Wear lenses when unwell with eye infections

• Share lenses or cases

 

Types of Contact Lenses We Provide

We offer a full range of contact lenses including:

• Daily disposables

• Monthly and two‑weekly lenses

• Toric lenses for astigmatism

• Multifocal lenses

• Specialist lenses (e.g., for dry eye or complex prescriptions)

All lenses are supplied in accordance with UK legislation and GOC standards.

 

Children & Young Wearers

Contact lenses can be safe for children and teenagers when fitted professionally and supervised appropriately.

We provide:

• Age‑appropriate instruction

• Safety guidance for parents

• Regular aftercare

• Monitoring of hygiene and compliance

 

When to Remove Lenses Immediately

Remove lenses and contact us urgently if you experience:

• Redness

• Pain

• Light sensitivity

• Blurred vision

• Discharge

• Reduced comfort

• Sudden dryness

• A feeling of something in the eye

Our opticians are accredited to provide urgent and emergency eye care, ensuring rapid assessment and treatment of contact lens‑related problems.

 

Contact Lens Complications

We monitor for and manage complications such as:

• Dry eye

• Allergic reactions

• Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC)

• Corneal staining

• Contact lens‑related infections

• Hypoxia

• Abrasions

Where necessary, we may use advanced diagnostic tools such as OCT scanning to investigate deeper corneal or retinal issues.

 

Replacement & Refunds

For safety reasons:

• Opened or unsealed contact lenses cannot be returned

• Unopened boxes may be returned within 14 days

• Faulty lenses will be replaced or refunded

This aligns with our Refunds & Returns Policy and UK consumer law.

 

Lost or Damaged Lenses

If lenses are lost or damaged, we can advise on replacement options depending on your lens type and prescription.

 

Contact Lens Supply

We supply lenses:

• In practice

• Through approved suppliers

• In accordance with UK optical regulations

• Only after a valid contact lens check or aftercare

 

Patient Responsibilities

To ensure safe lens wear, patients must:

• Attend regular aftercare appointments

• Follow hygiene instructions

• Use only recommended solutions

• Replace lenses as advised

• Report symptoms promptly

• Keep lenses away from water

• Follow professional advice on suitability and wear time

 

Accessibility & Support

We provide adjustments for patients who need support with:

• Handling lenses

• Understanding instructions

• Reading printed materials

• Communication (including Welsh‑language support)