Practitioner Perceptions of Patients Wearing Decorative Contact Lenses Purchased Through Unauthorized Sellers

Abstract

A significant number of individuals who obtain contact lenses illegally from unauthorized sources are young adults. Most unauthorized sellers reviewed did not adhere to the proper protocol for selling contact lenses or instruct their customers on proper lens wear and care. A significant percentage of optometrists responding to the survey reported complications associated with contact lenses purchased through unauthorized sources, suggesting that the risk of contact lens-related complications increases when the lenses are purchased from one of these sources.

Opportunities and threats to contact lens practice: A global survey perspective

“…In contrast, Australasian practitioners were very sceptical about this opportunity (Median: 2/10), confirming that these types of CLs are appreciated depending on the geographical region, population demographics and the culture as reported earlier [58]. Noticeably, practitioners in North America (Median: 4/10) reported cosmetic CLs are more connected to non-legal purchase, in particular via online sources, and as linked to the development of CL-related complication, despite the FDA and professional bodies regulating this type of CLs [59].…”

Assessment of ocular surface response to tinted soft contact lenses with different characteristics and pigment location

“…[5,[21][22][23] In addition, Gaiser et al reported that most people who obtain contact lenses from unauthorized sources are young adults, and suggested that the risk of contact lensrelated complications increases when the lenses are purchased from these sources. [24] Their results further support the argument that the purchase of contact lenses without a prescription poses a serious threat to the health and safety of consumers. However, all of our participants were under the supervision of eye care professionals and received the necessary training and support for correct insertion, removal and cleaning of their lenses, which is frequently not the case for over-the-counter customers.…”

Contact Lens Safety for the Correction of Refractive Error in Healthy Eyes

“…Surveys indicate frequent online (24%) purchase or borrowing/obtaining (18%) from friends and family. 58 In this survey, most unauthorized sellers reviewed did not adhere to the proper protocol for selling contact lenses or instruct their customers on proper lens wear and care. 58 This might predispose the users to contact lens–related complications.…”