In years past, for medicolegal and socio-economic reasons, patients younger than 18 were rarely prescribed contacts. But now this marketing segment is growing.

According to Robert Cykiert, M.D., F.A.C.S., parents who wear contacts often want their children to reap the same benefits. Before you fit any minor, make sure a parent will take an active role in monitoring care and handling.

Sports-minded teenagers appreciate eyewear that doesn't fall off, fog up or slip down the nose. Athletes also enjoy better peripheral vision because no frames get in the way.

Disposability also increases contact lens popularity with the age group. For teens, prescriptions changes can occur as often as every 6 months for a few years. With disposable lenses, the patient has no significant added expense if his prescription changes. He simply orders the new prescription the next time he orders lenses. If he had to replace conventional lenses, meant to be worn for an entire year, he'd face unwanted, additional expense every time his prescription changed.

Additionally, simplified care with multipurpose solutions has made it easier for the teenager and parent to ensure compliance. Young adults love to brag about their contact lenses to their friends. You can expect this to drive contact lens traffic to your office. And, rest assured, that as refractive laser surgery becomes more popular, these teenagers will likely become your laser patients in 5 to 15 years.