If you struggle to read the fine print in a book or have difficulty seeing things far away, it may be time to consider getting glasses. But where should you buy them from?
Some people purchase glasses online, but buying them from your optometrist has several benefits. Before receiving a pair of glasses, your eye doctor will conduct an eye exam to determine the right prescription for your vision needs and fit for comfort. By purchasing your glasses from an optometrist, you can rest assured knowing that you will have:
- Precision in prescription
- Quality assurance
- Personalized recommendations
- Adjustments and repairs
- Ongoing eye care
What Conditions Can Glasses Correct?
Glasses are not just a fashion accessory; they are as unique as your fingerprint, which makes receiving the proper prescription crucial for vision correction. They can also be a corrective tool for various vision issues, such as:
- Myopia or nearsightedness: When distant objects look blurry and near vision is clear. Your optometrist can prescribe lenses that help focus light directly onto your retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) to see clearly at a distance.
- Hyperopia or farsightedness: On the flip side, hyperopia is when distant vision is clear but near vision is blurry. Glasses with lenses that redirect light on the retina can make close-up vision clear.
- Astigmatism: Blurry or distorted vision could result from astigmatism, where the cornea or lens of the eye has an irregular shape. Specially crafted lenses from your optometrist can help you see clearly.
- Presbyopia: As we age, our eyes might need help focusing on up-close tasks. Reading glasses or prescribed lenses can help you read or perform close-up tasks.
Why You Should Buy Glasses from Your Optometrist
Your optometrist plays a key role in providing glasses tailored just for you, and there are several benefits to buying glasses from them versus online or from a store without a prescription.
Precision in Prescription
Your eyes are unique and require specific measurements for a prescription that your optometrist and their optical team can get in the clinic with specific tools. By taking the following into account, your optometrist can determine the exact prescription and measurements you need for clear and comfortable vision:
- The pupillary distance (PD)
- The type of lens coating and material for your occupation or lifestyle
- The curvature of lenses
- The height of the optical center of the lens
- The height of a multifocal lens
Quality Assurance
Your eyes deserve care and attention, and your optometrist is committed to delivering just that. When you buy from them, you can trust that the frames and lenses meet quality standards for clarity, durability, and comfort.
Personalized Recommendations
Ever feel overwhelmed scrolling through endless options online? Your optometrist is not just a prescription dispenser; they’re your eyewear guide. They can recommend frames that suit your face shape, lifestyle, and preferences so you see well and look fabulous. Personalized recommendations by your optometrist can include:
- Selecting the correct frame size
- Selecting the right frame shape
- Determining the type of lens design
- Properly adjusting the frame to your face
Adjustments & Repairs
Remember the last time you bought shoes online, and they just didn’t quite fit right? Imagine that frustration with something as essential as your glasses. When you buy from your optometrist, an optician can make on-the-spot adjustments so your glasses sit comfortably on your face. Plus, if your glasses need fixing further down the line, they are happy to help.
Ongoing Eye Care
Your optometrist is not just there for a one-time sale; they’re your partners in eye health. When you purchase glasses from them, you establish a relationship that goes beyond the transaction and can include warranties and cost-saving when using insurance.
Regular eye exams, check-ups, and adjustments can address questions or concerns that arise after getting your glasses. Continued support and eye care from your optometrist help maintain eye health and vision clarity with up-to-date prescriptions.
Problems with Buying Your Glasses Online or Elsewhere
While buying glasses online or in a store may seem quick and convenient, it can have some disadvantages regarding incorrect prescription and improper fit, such as:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Eyestrain
- Pulling sensation in the eyes
- Glasses slipping off the nose
- Pain or pressure on your nose or around the ears
Preserve Your Vision with Glasses
Buying glasses from your optometrist is the better choice for your eyes, meaning you get the correct prescription, lens material, and frames to fit your face appropriately. Your optometrist can provide personalized support and follow-up care so that your glasses continue to serve your vision needs.
So, before you click “buy now” on that tempting online deal, consider the value of clarity, quality, and ongoing care your optometrist offers. Book an appointment with Toronto Centre Eye Care for all your vision correction needs.
