If you’ve ever tried switching from glasses to contacts in Glendale Heights and found your vision felt off, you’re not alone. The truth is, contact lens prescriptions are not simply copies of your glasses prescription. At iDoctor, we take a detailed, tech-forward approach to prescribing contact lenses tailored precisely to your eyes—right here, near Army Trail and Bloomingdale Roads. Whether you’re coming from Bloomingdale, Glen Ellyn, or nearby Carol Stream, understanding this difference makes your care and comfort our top priority. To learn more about our approach and location, visit contact lenses in Glendale Heights.
“Dr. Sayed explained every detail so I finally understand why contacts feel different than glasses. My trial lenses fit perfectly!”
— iDoctor patient
Ready to make the switch with confidence? Call iDoctor at (630) 454-6899 or book your contact lens exam online. Same- and next-day appointments are often available.
What Makes Contact Lens Prescriptions Unique?
Many patients are surprised to learn their glasses prescription can’t be used to order contact lenses. This isn’t just a technicality—it’s rooted in real optical science and your eye’s health.
- Lens position matters: Glasses rest roughly 12 millimeters from your eyes, while contacts sit directly on your cornea. This shift in distance (the vertex distance) alters the necessary focusing power, especially for higher prescriptions.
- Fit and eye shape: Contacts must fit the unique curvature of your cornea and need precise measurements (base curve and diameter) for safe, comfortable wear.
- Material and oxygen: Every brand, type, and design brings a different fit—some are more breathable, some hold moisture better, and multifocal or toric lenses have even more precise fitting needs.
So while your glasses prescription focuses on sphere (SPH), cylinder (CYL), and axis, contact lens prescriptions add:
- Base Curve (BC): The curvature of your cornea, ensuring contacts don’t slip or irritate.
- Diameter (DIA): The width of the lens, matching your eye’s anatomy for full coverage and movement.
- Brand and Material: Not just marketing—each lens behaves differently on the eye.
Every prescription is calculated to keep your eyes healthy and your vision crisp—never one-size-fits-all. That’s why iDoctor’s process uses digital phoropters, corneal mapping, and trial fitting with advanced imaging for every patient.
Local Benefits of Expert Fitting in Glendale Heights
At iDoctor, we see patients from across Glendale Heights, as well as neighbors traveling from Bloomingdale and Addison who expect more from their contact lens care. Our local expertise means:
- Personalized fittings: Every lens is trialed and measured with digital equipment—no guessing, no generic sizing.
- Advanced diagnostics: Tools like Daytona ultra-widefield retinal imaging and iCare tonometry let us catch problems early, from dry eye to subtle corneal changes.
- Full insurance support: We accept VSP, Eyemed, Cigna Vision, Humana, Superior Vision, Davis Vision, NVA, Spectera, UnitedHealthcare Vision, and more. Most exams and fittings are covered—our front desk verifies details so you enjoy hassle-free visits.
- Convenient location and hours: Find us at 132 E. Army Trail Rd., just past Jewel-Osco. Free parking is right outside the door. We’re open Monday through Friday, with next-day and sometimes same-day availability. Patients from Glen Ellyn, Lombard, and Carol Stream are just a short drive away.
- Premium solutions for every eye: Whether you need multifocal, toric (astigmatism), or daily disposable contacts, our fitting process and broad inventory mean you leave with vision as sharp and comfortable as you deserve.
All of this is backed by iDoctor’s concierge-level care—personalized, detailed, and always patient-first. Our focus on designer and boutique eyewear guarantees not only a precise fit, but a stylish one, whether you stick with glasses or explore the contact lens world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my contact lens prescription different from my glasses prescription?
Contacts rest on your eye’s surface, while glasses are positioned further away. This changes the power you need, plus adds base curve and diameter for proper fit. A direct conversion is rarely safe or effective—fittings protect both your clarity and eye health.
What information is included on a contact lens prescription?
Contact lens prescriptions include the specific power, base curve, diameter, and lens brand/type. These factors are determined through in-office measurements and trial fitting, not copied from your glasses.
Can I use my glasses prescription to order contacts?
No. Glasses and contacts require different optical calculations and measurements. Self-converting is risky and can harm your vision or cornea—always get a professional contact lens exam. For more on this, read our detailed guide on contacts-to-glasses conversion.
What insurances are accepted for contact lens fittings in Glendale Heights?
We’re in-network with most major vision insurance plans, including VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Humana, Davis Vision, NVA, Spectera, and UnitedHealthcare Vision. Our team confirms your coverage ahead of time for a seamless visit.
Is parking available for appointments at iDoctor?
Yes, our office has free, easy parking directly outside the entrance—no meters, no hassle. Located on Army Trail Road, right near Bloomingdale and just minutes from Addison or Lombard, we’re easy to reach for your appointment.
How to Book Your Contact Lens Exam in Glendale Heights
- Call us at (630) 454-6899 or book online—many appointments are available same or next day.
- Bring your current glasses, any old contact lens boxes/packaging, a list of medications, and your insurance card.
- Your visit will include a digital vision assessment, precise corneal measurements, and lens trials with Dr. Sayed’s expert guidance. We’ll provide training, answer all your questions, and send you off with sample lenses and a clear next step.
- Enjoy total convenience with direct lens ordering for pick-up or quick shipping, along with ongoing support and free adjustments for prescription eyewear.
Find your best, most comfortable vision—right where you live. For designer frames, advanced diagnostics, and boutique-level care, trust iDoctor in Glendale Heights.
Still exploring your options? Be sure to check our contact lens add powers guide for helpful tips about multifocals, or browse other topics on our eye health and eyewear blog.
“Everyone at iDoctor made the fitting process easy and answered every question—I left with contacts that felt great and sharp vision all day.” — iDoctor patient
Call us today at (630) 454-6899 or book your contact lens exam online.
If you’d like to learn more about our boutique optical or designer eyewear for every style, visit our Glendale Heights optical page.
