Frequently Asked Questions

Clear Vision | Comfort | Style

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ page! Here we provide answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please don't hesitate to contact us!

Questions about Eye Exams & Vision Health

  • The recommended frequency of eye exams varies depending on your age and overall eye health:

    Children: Annually. Regular eye exams are crucial for healthy visual development.

    Healthy Adults (20-65 years old): Every two years. Even without noticeable problems, routine exams can detect subtle changes in vision and eye health.

    Adults Over 65: Annually. The risk of age-related eye conditions increases with age.

    Individuals with Specific Health Conditions: Annually. Certain systemic conditions like diabetes can affect eye health, requiring more frequent monitoring. Please discuss your specific needs with our team.

  • A comprehensive eye exam involves a series of tests to evaluate your vision and the overall health of your eyes. This may include:

    Visual Acuity Tests: Measuring your sharpness of vision at different distances.

    Refraction: Determining your prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses.

    Eye Movement and Alignment Tests: Assessing how your eyes work together.

    Slit-Lamp Examination: Examining the front and internal structures of your eye with a microscope.

    Tonometry: Measuring the pressure inside your eye to screen for glaucoma.

    Dilated Eye Exam (when necessary): Using eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing for a more thorough examination of the retina and optic nerve.

  • While regular exams are important even without symptoms, you should schedule an eye exam if you experience any of the following:

    Blurred or double vision

    Difficulty seeing at night

    Eye pain or discomfort

    Frequent headaches

    Excessive tearing or dry eyes

    Seeing halos around lights

    Floaters or flashes of light

    Eye strain or fatigue

    Changes in your vision

  • To ensure a smooth and comprehensive eye exam, please bring the following:
    -Your current eyeglasses or contact lenses (if applicable).
    -A list of any medications you are currently taking.
    Your health insurance card(s).
    -A list of any eye allergies or past eye conditions.
    -Any specific questions or concerns you may have about your vision or eye health.

Questions about Our Services & Products

  • We offer a wide selection of eyewear to meet your individual needs and style preferences, including:

    Prescription eyeglasses
    Sunglasses (prescription and non-prescription)
    Safety eyewear
    Sports eyewear, including prescription swim goggles and ski goggle inserts
    A variety of lens options (single vision, bifocal, progressive, etc.)
    Contact lenses (including daily, monthly, and specialty lenses)

    Please visit our products page to learn more at https://www.comlyeyecare.ca/products-we-carry

  • Absolutely! Our selections include top designer brands, offering a range of styles from practical to fashionable. Each of our locations carefully curates its own unique frame lines.

    Please visit eyewear page to see our full selection: https://www.comlyeyecare.ca/frames-sunglasses

  • Yes, in most cases, we can create custom clip-on sunglasses for virtually every frame we stock. This is a convenient way to add sun protection to your prescription eyewear.

  • The turnaround time for new glasses depends on the type of lenses:

    Single Vision Lenses: Generally 7-10 business days.

    Bifocal and Progressive Lenses: Generally around two weeks. * More complex prescriptions or lens treatments may take slightly longer.

    We will provide you with an estimated completion date when you place your order.

  • In many cases, yes, we can replace the lenses in your existing frames. However, we need to examine your frames to ensure they are in good condition and suitable for new lenses.

    Please be aware that older frames can become brittle, and any damage during the manufacturing process would be at your own risk. Additionally, parts for older frames may be difficult to obtain if repairs are needed.

  • No, you do not need to be a current patient of Comly Eye Care to purchase glasses from us. We welcome all patients with a valid, up-to-date prescription from any clinic.

  • The adaptation period for a new prescription varies:
    Most Single Vision Lenses: Typically a couple of days.
    Changes in Progressive Lenses: Usually around two weeks.
    New Progressive Lens Wearers: It can take up to a month for some individuals to fully adapt.
    Remember that everyone is different, so be patient and don't hesitate to contact us if you are experiencing difficulties.

Questions about Contact Lenses

  • Yes, we provide comprehensive contact lens fittings. Our experienced optometrists will assess your vision needs, eye health, and lifestyle to determine the best type of contact lenses for you.

  • We offer a variety of contact lens options, including:

    Daily disposable lenses
    Monthly disposable lenses
    Toric lenses for astigmatism
    Multifocal lenses for presbyopia
    Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses
    Specialty lenses for certain eye conditions  

  • Proper cleaning and care are essential for healthy contact lens wear. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your eye doctor and the lens care solution manufacturer.
    General guidelines include:
    Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses.
    Clean your lenses immediately after removing them using the recommended multi-purpose solution.
    Rub and rinse your lenses as instructed.
    Store your lenses in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution. Never reuse solution.
    Replace your lens case regularly (every 1-3 months).
    Never use tap water to clean or store your lenses.

  • In general, it is not recommended to sleep in contact lenses unless they are specifically designed and prescribed for overnight wear by your eye doctor. Sleeping in regular contact lenses increases the risk of eye infections and other complications. Always follow your eye doctor's instructions regarding lens wear and care.

  • It is generally advised to avoid swimming or showering while wearing contact lenses, as water can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes, increasing the risk of infection. If you need to see while swimming, consider wearing daily disposable lenses and discarding them immediately afterward, or ask us about prescription swim goggles.

  • If you experience any discomfort, redness, pain, or blurred vision while wearing your contact lenses, remove them immediately and consult with our office. Do not continue wearing them until you have been examined.

Questions about General Information

  • We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. We kindly request 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the appointment slot to another patient. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee

  • We accept various payment methods, including cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and debit.

  • Yes, we partner with Affirm to offer financing options for your eyewear purchases. Please inquire with our staff for more details.

  • Yes, free parking is available at both of our clinic locations:
    * Collingwood Location: Parking is available on either side of the building.
    * Wasaga Beach Location: You can park in front of the clinic.

  • Yes, both our Collingwood and Wasaga Beach locations are wheelchair accessible to ensure the comfort and convenience of all our patients.

  • Bifocal lenses have two distinct viewing areas: the upper portion corrects for distance vision, and the lower portion corrects for near vision. These lenses have a visible line separating the two powers

    Progressives lenses (also known as no-line multifocals) offer a seamless transition in lens power from top to bottom. The upper part corrects for distance, the lower part for near vision, and there's an intermediate zone in between for mid-range tasks. Progressive lenses provide clear vision at all distances without the visible line found in bifocals, making them an excellent choice for individuals who need correction for multiple distances.

  • Ideally, we recommend having your glasses cleaned and adjusted every four to six months. Regular adjustments ensure that your frames and lenses are properly aligned for optimal vision and comfort. During an adjustment, we will also clean your glasses using an ultrasonic cleaner.

  • You want to use eyeglass spray cleaner formulated for anti-glare lenses. Apply the cleaner to both sides of the lens, gently rub it around with your fingers, and then dry the lenses with a soft cloth. Paper products should be avoided. The finishing touch for cleaning should be made with your anti-static cloth. Polish the lens with this, it will remove smudges and bring the lens to a shine without creating static, which attracts dust.