As the world keeps evolving, the choices of goods that can be bought online only grows wider. Things that we would have never expected even possible to purchase over the internet are not only a feasible option, but a thriving alternative! Prescription eyeglasses are a perfect example of just that! The complexity of creating specialized prescription glasses seems as though it would be a risky to be bought anywhere other than in person, with your trusted eye doctor… However, as the options through technology become more limitless, so to, creating important and complex goods – such as personalized glasses – only becomes more accommodating to produce! Let’s discuss more about the option of buying eyeglasses online…
As prescription eyeglasses are considered a “medical device”, It might seem as though creating the perfect pair for you would be a very intricate process. While in some circumstances it certainly can be, the majority of production is pretty straight forward. When making the decision to purchase eyeglasses over the internet, there are a few things you should understand about your prescription needs, as well as knowing your needed frame size. Typically these are the only real specific details that you need before placing your order, so it’s important that you’re able to first truly grasp the technicalities of the two.
When given your prescription from your doctor, first thing to understand is which eye is which! If your Rx doesn’t simply say “L” and “R”, you will likely see “OS” and “OD”. OS stands for oculus sinister, while OD is oculus dexter. They are the latin words for “left eye” and “right eye”, respectively. Next, you will usually see value entered for an “SPH” (or “spherical”); this is the easily distinguished as the main details needed. You may have additional details, such as a “CYL” (“cylindrical”) – which always comes with a subsequent “Axis” value as well. If you require bi-focals or readers, you will likely also have an ADD. Another important thing to note is that if you use your eyeglasses all day, everyday (Distance), the values for your SPH will likely be negative; whereas if you have a Reading prescription, or the values for the ADD will generally be positive numbers. Regarding the frame size, it’s important to take note that most online optical shops offer the exact dimensions of their eyeglasses frames on their websites. The number one thing to do is to check the dimensions on your existing eyeglasses (or measure them). Note that all measurements in the optical industry are done in millimeters.
Buying glasses online truly isn’t as intimidating as it might seem – and you ultimately save an immense amount of your own time, and money! If you still feel a bit stumped before making this next purchase, feel free to contact one of their customer service options (as they are often available immediately, in the easiest forms of communication: online chat!) If you have any questions before placing the order, they can often help with the toughest of decisions – including specific details regarding the complexities of your prescription details! So go ahead, try it! Order glasses online – you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner!
Elea Kalin is a fashion stylist – turned optical specialist. Her focus is on accessories and statement pieces – like prescription eyeglasses. She is currently working for eyeglassespro.com – the easiest way to buy glasses online, which now offers free shipping all over the US, with the code FreeShip10.