How much are contact lenses?

[abbyseyes]

I promised my hubby contact lenses for X-mas. He's 41 years old and has worn glasses his whole life (-well, since he was in grade school). He tried contacts once when they first came out, back when all they offered were the hard ones and for obvious reasons didn't like them. I don't wear glasses or contacts so I have no idea what I'm looking at spending. I thought someone here at MW might be able to give me an idea on what the exam and lenses will cost? Thanks.
Cat

[Faery-Wings]

I started out with hard lenses too, ouch! I spent $400 on them and never made it to wearing them full time.

I wear Accuvue's soft lenses now. I wear them for two weeks (ok, I admit it- 3 weeks ;)) and throw them out. I get mine at BJ's (warehouse club) for $16 a box- two boxes (one for each eye) lasts 6-8 weeks.

I haven't been to the opthamologist in two years (bad me!) but I would say that will run about $100 with no insurance. I know Walmart has a optometrist in there Eye Centers, and I bet that would be cheaper.
Hope that helps.

Chris

[Old Witch]

My middle son wears soft lenses. They don't cost much, but the eye exam and prescription will be a little pricey.:p Go for it.

[Illuminatus]

Many health insurance carriers cover a $50 eye exam. Mine does. They will also cover basic contact lens purchases.

[Nyx]

It depends on both the brand, and the optometrist. Some brands can be pretty cheap (less than $40 a box, sometimes less than $20), and others can be upwards of $100. Custom lenses cost more, but last longer and fit better.
Also, keep in mind that you husband needs to be fitted for lenses, and that also has a small fee involved. Usually between 20-40 bucks.
Usually the doctor will let you try a few sample pairs on in the office to see which feel better. And then there's the consideration of how long the lens last (disposable or not), and whether or not your husband will want to sleep in them. Plus cleaning stuff. (about 6-10 bucks a bottle, depending on where you buy it)

If your husband has the same Rx in each eye, it will be cheaper. You will only need one box for both eyes, instead of a box for each.
B&L, Acuve, Acuve2 , and Survue are all fairly cheap, and very popular lenses.

I would NOT buy online. At least not until you have his exact Rx and base curve. Oh, and contact lens Rx's only last a year so be sure he get's an new exam each year, if he chooses to wear contacts.

(I think that was a bit too much info :bubbles: )
~~Nyx~~