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Q: I usually buy my new glasses from my eye doctor, but wonder if it matters who makes my eyewear? I see ads for cheaper glasses all the time, but I am not sure about going that route?
A: Patients commonly ask us this sort of question, because how glasses are made is largely a mystery to most people.
Step one: Get the most precise and perfect vision prescription you can. Even this is not well understood, but essentially most people know that WHO does your vision testing ( called a "refraction" ) varies from office to office. We, like most Optometric practices, believe that the refraction is so important that we....the doctors....do the actual refraction. Some offices assign that "task" to a technician. Doctors of Optometry spend a great deal of time learning how to do very precise vision testing, and do not generally delegate this critical part of your eye exam to anyone less trained.
Step two: Taking several precise measurements of your eyes and facial anatomy are essential, and but often overlooked. in order to be certain, we use new digital measurement systems to give us five precise dimensions so the best optics of your eyewear align with your lines of sight. This assures you of the clearest vision for distance and reading, and most comfortable eyesight. Many stores take one such measurement manually, and of course online sellers can take none at all. The result can be the correct prescription numbers in the lenses, but the optics do not align accurately for your eyes.
Step three: If you wear progressive lenses ( "invisible bifocals" ) the type and brand of lenses vary enormously. At last count, over 400 different brands and designs are sold in this country! The newest and best should give the best distance vision with clear side vision ( think of glancing in your rear view mirrors ) as well as the clearest and widest reading area when you lower your eyes to read. Your eye doctor can best discuss what design would best serve your lifestyle needs.
Honestly, HOW your eyewear is measured and made is just as important as WHO prescribes your vision correction.
Dr. Thomas Stout, OD, FAAO, is an optometric physician at Morgantown Eye Associates.