Quality eyeglasses can not only transform your vision, they can also transform your look and how others see you. Trendy frame styles make a fashion statement and can define your style, but changing frames costs money and depending on your type of lenses and prescription, the lenses may even cost more than those stylish frames. Whether you're a young professional or a retiree on a fixed income, you may be tempted to shop for affordable options in person and online. But be sure to investigate what you're getting for your money. Cheaper prices may not mean a good deal when it comes to eyeglasses.
Online Deals?
Is it safe to buy eyeglasses online? Will they be quality eyeglasses with the correct prescription? Most eye doctors believe it is not advisable to purchase frames online from discounters. You may find a terrific price, but what are you getting for your money? Budget frames can be (and often are) designer knockoffs and may be made of inferior materials that don't hold up over time. Some inexpensive frames may also be closeouts with no warranty. Choosing a cheaper deal can wind up being a bad decision that ends up costing you more money in the long run.
Quality and Safety
Quality and safety of lenses and frames are important things to remember when buying eyeglasses. A study conducted by the Pacific University College of Optometry and published in the journal Optometry shows some startling findings about prescription eyeglasses bought online. In the study, researchers found nearly half of prescription glasses they bought online either contained the wrong lenses or didn't meet standards for impact testing against cracking or shattering. Researchers bought and evaluated 154 pairs of eyeglasses and found several had the wrong type of lens (single vision vs. multifocal lens) and that some did not have the lens treatments (anti-reflective or ultraviolet protection) ordered. Twenty-eight percent of the lenses failed standards for optical parameters and 22 percent failed impact testing. The study's author concluded that nearly half of the prescription eyeglasses delivered directly by online vendors did not meet either optical or safety requirements.
To ensure you're investing in quality eyeglasses, ask your eye doctor which eyeglass lenses would work best for your prescription and lifestyle. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eyeglass lenses used to be made only of glass. Today, most lenses are plastic which makes them lighter, more flexible and more resistant to shattering. Plastic lenses also have built-in ultraviolet light-blocking ability. Eye doctors often recommend impact-resistant polycarbonate safety lenses for active patients who wear glasses while playing sports. And Trivex lenses, made of a newer plastic material, have the same safety properties as polycarbonate lenses but are less distorting. To get the best quality eyeglasses for your money, make sure to do some advance research on what features you want (such as anti-reflective coatings) and consult a reputable optical dispensary for advice.
For questions or comments, contact Woodhams Eye Clinic.
