Prescription Eyeglasses
Understanding Your Eyeglass Prescription
Your eyeglass prescription is a detailed map that tells us exactly how to create lenses that correct your unique vision. Each measurement works together to ensure you see as clearly as possible.
Your eyeglass prescription includes numbers and letters that tell us exactly how to make lenses that correct your vision. Each eye may have different values, and we write them separately as OD for your right eye, OS for your left eye, and OU when a value applies to both eyes. These abbreviations come from Latin terms that eye care professionals use worldwide. The prescription might look confusing at first, but each part has a specific purpose.
A typical prescription shows values for sphere, cylinder, axis, and sometimes add power or prism. Some prescriptions include prism with a base direction to help the eyes work together more comfortably. We measure these numbers in units called diopters, and they can be positive or negative depending on the type of correction you need. Understanding these basics helps you know what your eyes need and why certain lens types work better for your situation.
The sphere number tells us if you are nearsighted or farsighted and how strong that correction needs to be. A minus value corrects distance blur from myopia, which means you see nearby objects more clearly than distant ones. A plus value corrects hyperopia for distance vision and, when used as an add power, helps with presbyopic near blur as well. The higher the absolute value, the stronger the prescription and the more correction your eyes need.
Sphere power affects how thick or thin your lenses will be and influences which lens materials and frame styles work best for you. Even small changes in sphere power can make a noticeable difference in how clearly you see. Our team at ReFocus Eye Health Penndel carefully measures your sphere power during comprehensive eye exams to ensure your prescription gives you the sharpest possible vision.
Cylinder corrects astigmatism, which means the cornea or lens has an uneven curve rather than being perfectly round. Think of it like the difference between a basketball and a football. This irregular shape causes light to focus unevenly on your retina, creating blurry or distorted vision at all distances. Not everyone has astigmatism, so these fields might be blank on your prescription.
Axis shows the direction of the astigmatism correction, measured in degrees from 1 to 180. The axis appears only when there is cylinder power because it tells us where to position the correction. Even a small amount of astigmatism correction can make your vision much sharper and more comfortable, especially when reading or driving at night. Accurate cylinder and axis measurements are essential for clear vision, which is why we use advanced diagnostic equipment during your eye exam.
Add power is an extra magnification amount we include for reading and other close-up tasks. This number is always positive and typically ranges from +0.75 to +3.00 diopters. Most people need add power once they reach their early to mid-forties due to a natural aging process called presbyopia, where the lens inside your eye becomes less flexible.
We add this number to your distance prescription to create the reading portion of bifocals or progressive lenses. The add power is usually the same for both eyes, though in some cases each eye may need a slightly different amount. As you get older, this number may gradually increase because your eye's focusing ability continues to change. Our ophthalmologists monitor these changes during your annual comprehensive eye exams.
Pupillary distance, or PD, measures the space between your pupils in millimeters. PD can be measured as a single binocular value or as separate monocular PDs for each eye. This measurement ensures that the optical center of each lens sits directly in front of your pupil, which is critical for comfortable, clear vision. We use distance PD for distance glasses and a slightly smaller near PD for reading-only glasses.
We measure your PD during your fitting appointment using specialized digital tools that provide highly accurate readings. An incorrect PD can cause eye strain, headaches, blurry vision, and even double vision. For strong prescriptions and multifocal lenses like progressives, even a small error in PD or fitting height can make a significant difference in how well you see and how comfortable your glasses feel throughout the day.
Some prescriptions include prism to help your eyes work together comfortably when there are alignment issues. Prism is measured in prism diopters and written with a base direction such as base up, base down, base in, or base out. If prism is not prescribed for you, this field will be blank on your prescription.
Prism can reduce double vision and eyestrain from eye alignment problems that might otherwise make reading or driving uncomfortable. Accurate monocular PDs and fitting heights are especially important when prism is present because even small positioning errors can affect how well the prism correction works. Our ophthalmologists carefully evaluate whether prism correction would benefit your vision and comfort.
Most prescriptions remain valid for one to two years, depending on your age and eye health. Children and people with changing eye conditions may need more frequent updates to keep their vision correction current. We typically recommend a comprehensive eye exam every year to monitor your vision and overall eye health, even if your prescription seems stable.
Your prescription might change even if your vision seems fine because eye changes often happen gradually. Some states have laws about how long a prescription is valid before you need a new exam. Contact lens prescriptions usually expire sooner than eyeglass prescriptions because they require additional measurements and health checks. We can write you a new prescription during any comprehensive eye exam at our Penndel office.
Choosing the Right Lens Type for Your Vision Needs
Different lens types serve different purposes, and choosing the right one depends on how you use your vision throughout the day. Our team helps you select lenses that match your daily activities and visual demands.
Single vision lenses have the same prescription power across the entire lens surface. They work well if you only need correction for one distance, either far away or up close. Many people wear single vision distance glasses all day and switch to reading glasses when needed, while others prefer separate pairs for specific tasks.
These lenses are usually the most affordable option and the easiest to adapt to because there are no different viewing zones to learn. If you are nearsighted, you may see reading or computer work clearly without your distance glasses, though you should use caution when moving around. Single vision lenses offer the widest field of view since the entire lens surface has the same power, making them ideal for people who primarily need correction at one distance.
Bifocal lenses have two distinct areas with a visible line between them. The upper portion corrects your distance vision, while the lower segment helps with reading and close-up work. You look through the top part for most activities and glance down through the reading segment for close tasks.
The reading segment is usually shaped like a half-moon or flat-top, with the flat-top design being the most common because it provides a wider reading area. Bifocals can provide a larger, more stable reading area than some progressive lenses. The visible line might bother some people for cosmetic reasons, but many wearers appreciate the clear distinction between viewing zones. These lenses are typically less expensive than progressive lenses and can be an excellent choice for people who want straightforward, reliable multi-distance correction.
Progressive lenses provide a smooth, gradual transition from distance to intermediate to near vision without any visible lines. The top of the lens corrects distance vision, the middle area helps with computer or arm's length tasks, and the lower portion is for reading. We often recommend progressives if you need correction at multiple distances and prefer a more natural, youthful appearance without visible lines.
Progressive lenses take some getting used to because you learn to move your head slightly to find the right zone for different distances. There are smaller areas of blur on the sides of the lens near the edges, but most people adapt within one to two weeks of consistent wear. Premium progressive designs offer wider viewing zones and less peripheral distortion, which can make adaptation easier. Our team at ReFocus Eye Health Penndel takes precise measurements to ensure your progressive lenses are customized to your face and wearing position.
Computer lenses, also called occupational lenses or office progressives, are designed specifically for the distances you use when working at a desk or performing tasks within indoor spaces. They provide clear vision at arm's length for your monitor and a bit closer for reading documents or using your phone. These lenses are not meant for driving or walking around outdoors because they do not provide clear distance vision.
We often recommend computer glasses for people who spend several hours a day at a screen or doing detailed work. They can reduce neck strain because you do not have to tilt your head back like you might with standard bifocals or progressives. The wider intermediate zone makes them more comfortable for office work and helps reduce eye fatigue during long workdays. These specialized lenses can be customized to match your specific workstation setup and viewing distances.
Trifocals add a dedicated intermediate zone between the distance and reading areas, creating three distinct viewing sections with two visible lines. The intermediate zone is helpful for tasks at arm's length, like using a computer or seeing a car dashboard clearly. Each zone provides a stable, wide viewing area for its specific distance.
Designed for people who need clear vision at three specific distances, trifocals work well if you have tried progressives but prefer the larger, more defined viewing areas that trifocals provide. Some people find trifocals easier to use because they always know exactly where to look for each distance. While trifocals are less commonly prescribed today due to the popularity of progressive lenses, they remain an excellent option for certain patients.
Reading glasses are single vision lenses with only the add power for close-up tasks like reading books, using your phone, or doing crafts. If your distance vision is good but you need help with near work, reading glasses might be all you need. Over-the-counter readers can work if both eyes need the same power and you have no astigmatism, but a prescription pair ensures the exact power you need and corrects any astigmatism you may have.
Full-time glasses correct your vision at all distances you use throughout the day, while reading glasses only help up close. Switching between different pairs can be inconvenient if you move between tasks often, but some people keep reading glasses in multiple locations for convenience. Over-the-counter readers use the same power in both eyes and a standard PD, which may not match your eyes perfectly. We can help you decide which approach fits your daily routine best based on your visual needs and lifestyle.
Lens Materials, Coatings, and Protective Features
The material and coatings you choose for your lenses affect everything from durability to visual clarity. Understanding your options helps you make informed decisions about protecting your vision and enhancing your comfort.
Lens materials vary in thickness, weight, impact resistance, and optical clarity. Standard plastic lenses work well for mild prescriptions and offer good optical quality at an affordable price. Polycarbonate lenses are highly impact-resistant and naturally block 100 percent of harmful UV rays, making them a popular choice for children, active adults, and anyone who needs durable, protective eyewear.
Trivex lenses combine the impact resistance of polycarbonate with excellent optical clarity and even lighter weight. Trivex has a higher Abbe value than polycarbonate, which means it produces sharper vision with less distortion and chromatic aberration, especially in the peripheral areas of the lens. We help you choose the material that balances your prescription strength, lifestyle needs, visual demands, and budget. These impact-resistant materials provide good protection for everyday wear but are not a substitute for ANSI Z87.1 safety-rated protective eyewear when workplace or recreational hazards are present.
High-index lenses are thinner and lighter than standard plastic, which is especially helpful for strong prescriptions that would otherwise create thick, heavy lenses. The higher the index number, such as 1.67 or 1.74, the thinner the lens will be for the same prescription power. This can significantly improve both the appearance and comfort of your glasses.
High-index lenses reduce the magnified or minified appearance of your eyes that strong prescriptions can create. They also allow you to choose from a wider variety of frame styles because the thinner profile works better with more frame shapes. While high-index lenses cost more than standard materials, many patients with strong prescriptions find the cosmetic and comfort benefits well worth the investment. Our opticians at ReFocus Eye Health Penndel can show you examples of how different lens materials will look in your chosen frames.
Anti-reflective coating, also called AR coating, reduces glare from lights, computer screens, and headlights. This coating makes your lenses nearly invisible by eliminating surface reflections, so people can see your eyes instead of distracting reflections. It also helps you see more clearly, especially at night when driving or when using digital devices for extended periods.
Modern anti-reflective coatings often include additional benefits like smudge resistance, water repellency, and easier cleaning. The coating can reduce eye strain during long periods of reading or screen time by allowing more light to pass through the lenses to your eyes. It significantly improves the appearance of your glasses by eliminating distracting reflections. We generally recommend this coating for most wearers, and it is especially beneficial for progressive lenses, high-index lenses, and anyone who drives frequently at night.
Scratch-resistant coatings make your lenses more durable and help them last longer by protecting against everyday wear and tear. While no lens is completely scratch-proof, this treatment significantly reduces minor scratches from cleaning, handling, and accidental contact with hard surfaces. Most modern lenses come with some level of scratch resistance built into the material or applied as a coating.
UV-blocking treatments protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, just like sunscreen protects your skin. Many lens materials, including polycarbonate and Trivex, include UV protection automatically, but we verify that your lenses offer complete UVA and UVB blocking regardless of the material. Long-term UV exposure can contribute to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems, so UV protection is important even on cloudy days. For outdoor activities with intense glare and bright sunlight, polarized sunglasses with 100 percent UVA and UVB protection improve comfort, visual contrast, and safety.
Blue light filtering lenses have become popular, but it is important to understand what they can and cannot do. Research shows that blue light filters do not prevent eye disease such as macular degeneration, and the level of blue light from screens is not known to damage the eye at typical use levels. The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that there is no scientific evidence that blue light from screens causes eye damage.
Some people find a mild blue light filter more comfortable for evening screen use, and the slight tint may help some individuals feel less eye strain. However, digital eye strain is primarily caused by reduced blinking, prolonged focusing, poor posture, and improper viewing distances rather than blue light itself. For reducing digital eye strain, we recommend following good habits such as the 20-20-20 rule, which means every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Blinking often, using lubricating eye drops when needed, positioning your screen about an arm's length away with the top at or slightly below eye level, and adjusting room and screen lighting to reduce glare are all more effective than blue light filters alone.
Photochromic lenses automatically darken when exposed to UV light outdoors and return to clear when you go inside. This feature gives you the convenience of both regular glasses and sunglasses in one pair, eliminating the need to switch between two pairs of glasses. The lenses typically react to sunlight within a minute or two and provide continuous UV protection whether dark or clear.
Modern photochromic lenses darken more and fade back faster than older versions, and they are available in various darkness levels ranging from light to very dark tints. However, they do not darken as well inside a car because windshields block most UV light that triggers the photochromic reaction. Available darkness levels and transition speeds continue to improve with newer photochromic technologies. Photochromic lenses work with most prescriptions and lens types, but they are not polarized. For activities where glare reduction is critical, such as driving in bright sun, fishing, or time on the water or snow, polarized sunglasses are the better choice.
Polarized lenses reduce reflected glare from water, snow, glass, and pavement by filtering out horizontal light waves that cause intense glare. This improves visual comfort and contrast outdoors, making them especially valuable for driving, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Polarization helps you see more clearly in bright conditions where glare would otherwise be distracting or even dangerous.
Always pair polarization with 100 percent UVA and UVB protection for complete eye safety. While polarized lenses are excellent for glare reduction, they can make some digital screens and instrument panels harder to see because the polarization interacts with the screens. Photochromic lenses are not polarized, so if strong glare reduction is your priority, dedicated polarized prescription sunglasses are the preferred option. Our optical department serves patients throughout the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area with a wide selection of polarized sunglasses in various styles and prescription options.
Finding Frames That Work for Your Prescription and Face
The right frame does more than look good. It affects how thick your lenses will be, how comfortable your glasses feel, and how well you see through different lens types. We help you find the perfect balance between style, function, and comfort.
Larger frames require bigger lenses, which can make the edges thicker and heavier if you have a strong prescription. Smaller frames allow us to cut lenses from a smaller area of the lens blank, resulting in thinner, lighter, and more attractive lenses. The shape of the frame also matters because certain shapes expose thicker edges more than others, particularly at the outer corners and bottom edges.
If you have a high prescription, we may recommend frames with thicker rims that hide the lens edges and provide better support for heavier lenses. Choosing a frame that is not much wider than your face helps keep the lenses as thin as possible. We can show you how different frame sizes will affect the final appearance and thickness of your glasses. High minus prescriptions usually look thinnest in small, round or oval full-rim frames, while high plus prescriptions often look and feel better in smaller frames with adjustable nose pads that distribute weight evenly.
Different frame shapes complement different face shapes, but personal preference and confidence matter most. Round frames can soften angular features, while rectangular frames can add definition to a round or soft-featured face. The goal is to create visual balance and make you feel confident and comfortable wearing your glasses.
- Oval faces can wear almost any frame shape successfully because of their balanced proportions
- Square faces with strong jawlines often look good in rounded or oval frames that soften angular features
- Round faces may prefer angular or rectangular styles that add structure and definition
- Heart-shaped faces with wider foreheads can balance their features with frames that are wider at the bottom
- Long or oblong faces benefit from taller frame styles that add width and proportion
Plastic frames, also called acetate frames, are lightweight, come in countless colors and patterns, and can make a bold fashion statement. Metal frames tend to be thinner and more adjustable, offering a classic or professional look that works well in business settings. We also carry flexible materials like titanium and memory metal that spring back to shape if bent, providing excellent durability for active lifestyles.
Some people have allergies to certain metals, especially nickel, so we offer hypoallergenic options such as titanium, stainless steel, and nickel-free alloys. Each material has different characteristics regarding durability, weight, flexibility, and style options. We help you choose based on your lifestyle, comfort preferences, skin sensitivities, and how you plan to use your glasses throughout your daily activities.
A good fit keeps your glasses secure and comfortable without pinching, sliding, or leaving marks. The bridge should rest gently on your nose without creating pressure points or red marks that persist. The temples should extend straight back without squeezing your head and then curve comfortably behind your ears. For bifocals and progressives, correct fitting height, pantoscopic tilt, and frame wrap are critical because they determine where the reading and intermediate zones align with your natural line of sight.
Poorly fitted glasses can slide down your nose, causing you to look through the wrong part of the lens and resulting in blurry vision or eyestrain. This matters especially with bifocal and progressive lenses where the reading zone must be positioned correctly at the proper fitting height, also called segment height. We carefully adjust your frames at your fitting appointment to ensure optimal positioning and comfort, and we encourage you to return anytime they feel uncomfortable or slide out of position.
Strong prescriptions create heavier lenses, which can make glasses feel uncomfortable after long periods of wear, especially if the weight is not properly distributed. Choosing high-index lens materials significantly reduces weight by creating thinner lenses. Lighter frame materials like titanium or thin acetate also help minimize the overall weight of your glasses.
Proper weight distribution across the nose and ears prevents discomfort, headaches, and pressure points that develop during extended wear. Adjustable nose pads can be carefully positioned to spread the weight more evenly across the bridge of your nose. Smaller frame sizes reduce the total lens weight because less lens material is needed. Our experienced opticians can recommend the best combination of lens materials, frame materials, and frame sizes to keep your glasses as light and comfortable as possible for all-day wear.
What to Expect During Your Eyeglass Fitting and Adjustment
Getting new glasses involves more than just picking out frames you like. Precise measurements and proper fitting ensure your glasses provide the clearest, most comfortable vision possible. Our team guides you through every step of this process.
Before we order your glasses, we take several precise measurements to ensure optimal vision and comfort. In addition to your pupillary distance, we measure how high your pupils sit in the frame you choose. This measurement, called the fitting height or segment height, is especially critical for progressive lenses where the reading and intermediate areas must be positioned correctly for your natural viewing angles.
We also measure the distance from your eyes to the back of the lens, called vertex distance, and the angles at which the frame sits on your face, including pantoscopic tilt and frame wrap. These measurements help us customize your lenses for your specific wearing position and face shape. Modern digital measurement technology allows us to take highly accurate measurements that account for how you naturally hold your head and where you look through the lenses. These precise measurements are one reason why professionally fitted prescription glasses provide better vision than online alternatives.
Getting used to new glasses usually takes a few days to a week, especially if your prescription changed significantly or you are trying a new lens type like progressives for the first time. Your brain needs time to adjust to the new way of seeing and to recalibrate depth perception. Progressive lenses typically require a longer adjustment period than single vision lenses because you must learn to use different viewing zones for different distances.
Wear your new glasses consistently throughout the day to help your eyes and brain adapt faster. Avoid switching back and forth between your old and new glasses during the first week, which can significantly slow adaptation and make the adjustment period more difficult. Mild dizziness, slight peripheral distortion, or awareness of the frame edges is normal at first and usually resolves within several days to two weeks. Use extra caution on stairs, curbs, and while driving until you feel fully adapted, especially with progressive lenses that require learning new head movements. If problems persist beyond two weeks or worsen over time, contact our office because adjustments or prescription verification may be needed.
Most fitting issues can be easily fixed with small, careful adjustments that take just a few minutes. We can adjust the temples to reduce pressure on your head or behind your ears, or bend them so the glasses sit level on your face without tilting to one side. Tightening or loosening the fit keeps your glasses secure during movement without causing discomfort or headaches.
We can also adjust nose pads to change how high the glasses sit on your face, ensure the reading zone is at the correct height for bifocals or progressives, and distribute weight more evenly to prevent pressure points. If your glasses slide down your nose, feel crooked, or leave marks on your skin, come see us for an adjustment. These fine-tuning visits are a normal part of wearing glasses, and we welcome you to stop by our Penndel office anytime your glasses need adjustment. There is no charge for adjustments on glasses purchased from our practice.
Red marks, sore spots, or pressure points that do not go away after the first few days indicate your glasses are too tight in specific areas and need adjustment. Glasses that constantly slide down your nose are too loose, improperly balanced, or need the nose pads adjusted to increase grip. Persistent headaches, blurry vision, or eyestrain can mean the lenses are not centered correctly over your pupils or the frames have shifted out of proper alignment.
You should not have to constantly push your glasses back up or tilt your head to unusual angles to see clearly through different parts of the lens. If one lens seems clearer than the other or you notice uneven vision between your eyes, the frames might be sitting crooked on your face. We can evaluate the fit, check the lens positioning, and make corrections so your glasses are comfortable and effective. Never try to adjust your own glasses at home because improper bending can damage the frame or alter critical measurements.
If you experience persistent headaches, significant eye strain, or blurry vision after the normal adjustment period of one to two weeks, schedule a recheck appointment with our optometrists. We verify that your prescription was made correctly, confirm that all measurements are accurate, and ensure the glasses fit as intended. Occasionally, a measurement error, laboratory mistake, or unexpected difficulty adapting means we need to remake the lenses or adjust the prescription.
Vision that gets worse instead of better after several days of consistent wear needs evaluation right away. Doubled or distorted vision is not normal and should be checked promptly to rule out prescription errors or other issues. Sometimes a prescription that seemed perfectly fine during the exam does not work well in real-world conditions, and modifications are needed. We want you to see clearly and comfortably, so we work with you until your glasses are exactly right and you are completely satisfied with your vision.
Caring for Your Glasses and Knowing When to Seek Help
Proper care extends the life of your glasses and keeps them performing at their best. Knowing when normal wear ends and problems begin helps you protect both your glasses and your vision.
Wash your hands first before handling your glasses to avoid transferring oils and dirt to the lenses. Clean your glasses daily with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner specifically designed for eyewear. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, napkins, or your shirt because these materials can scratch lens coatings even if the lenses themselves are scratch-resistant. Always rinse your glasses under lukewarm water to remove dust and debris before wiping them, and never use hot water which can damage lens coatings.
Store your glasses in a protective case when you are not wearing them, rather than leaving them on a table, counter, or car dashboard. Leaving glasses lens-down on hard surfaces invites scratches and coating damage. Keep them away from high heat sources like car dashboards, stoves, and heaters, which can damage lens coatings and warp plastic frames. A hard-shell case provides the best protection against crushing and impact. Avoid ammonia, vinegar, bleach, acetone, and most alcohol-based cleaners unless your lens manufacturer specifically says they are safe for your particular coating, as these chemicals can permanently damage anti-reflective and other premium coatings.
Never place your glasses on top of your head or hang them from your shirt collar for extended periods, as this gradually bends the frame out of shape and loosens the fit. Always take your glasses off with both hands by grasping both temples to avoid twisting the frame, which can make them sit crooked on your face. Avoid exposing your glasses to harsh chemicals like hairspray, perfume, cleaning products, or chlorine from swimming pools, which can damage coatings and frame materials.
Do not leave glasses in a hot car where extreme temperatures can damage coatings, warp plastic frames, and even cause lenses to crack in severe cases. Tighten loose screws promptly with a small eyeglass screwdriver to prevent parts from falling out and getting lost. Always bring your glasses to our office for professional adjustments rather than attempting to bend or adjust them yourself. Consider keeping a backup pair of glasses, especially if you depend on glasses all day for work or driving, in case your primary pair breaks or gets lost. Never attempt to heat-adjust plastic frames at home, as improper heating can permanently damage coatings, warp the plastic unpredictably, and weaken the frame structure.
Occasional mild eye strain after long reading sessions or extended computer work is relatively normal, but persistent or worsening headaches when wearing your glasses suggest something is wrong. The problem might be an incorrect prescription, poor lens positioning, frames that do not fit properly, or incorrect measurements that place the optical centers in the wrong position. Sometimes underlying eye muscle issues, uncorrected astigmatism, or other health conditions cause headaches that glasses alone cannot fix.
Digital eye strain and computer-related discomfort often relate more to reduced blinking and dry eyes than to your prescription. Lubricating eye drops and regular breaks following the 20-20-20 rule can significantly help. If headaches occur mainly at the end of the day or after specific tasks like reading or computer work, let us know those details during your appointment. We can determine if your prescription needs updating, if a different lens type would work better for your activities, or if the fit needs adjustment. Do not ignore ongoing discomfort because it rarely improves on its own and may indicate an issue that requires attention.
Your vision can change gradually without you noticing right away because your brain compensates for small changes. Common signs that your prescription may need updating include frequent squinting, holding reading material closer or farther away than usual, increasing difficulty seeing clearly at night or in low light, and needing brighter light for reading or close work. Blurry vision that does not go away even after cleaning your glasses thoroughly indicates a possible prescription change rather than dirty lenses.
Some people notice that activities like driving, especially at night, or reading for extended periods become more tiring or require more effort than before. If you find yourself frequently taking off your glasses to see better at certain distances, your prescription may no longer be accurate for your current needs. We check your vision carefully at every comprehensive exam to catch changes early, even small ones that you might not have noticed yet. Regular exams are important because they detect not only prescription changes but also early signs of eye diseases that have no symptoms initially.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, sudden flashes of light, or a curtain or shadow moving across your visual field. These symptoms can signal serious conditions like retinal detachment, retinal tear, or stroke that require emergency treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Sudden severe eye pain, especially when accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or halos around lights, may indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency requiring same-day treatment.
- A sudden increase in floaters, especially when accompanied by flashes of light, needs same-day evaluation to rule out retinal problems
- Double vision that appears suddenly and does not go away requires urgent medical assessment to determine the cause
- Any trauma to your eye or face should be checked immediately by an eye care professional, even if you can still see afterward
- Red, painful eyes with discharge, light sensitivity, or vision changes may indicate infection or inflammation needing prompt treatment
- These urgent symptoms are not related to needing new glasses and require medical evaluation by our ophthalmologists or emergency care depending on severity
Frequently Asked Questions
Our patients serving Levittown, Bensalem, Bristol, and throughout Bucks County often ask these common questions about prescription eyeglasses. We are here to provide clear answers and personalized guidance.
We recommend a comprehensive eye exam every year for most adults, even if your vision seems stable and your glasses still feel comfortable. Children, people over age 60, and those with diabetes, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye conditions may need more frequent visits every six months or as recommended by our ophthalmologists. Regular exams catch prescription changes before they significantly impact your daily life and detect eye diseases in their earliest stages when they are most treatable and before permanent vision loss occurs.
In many cases, we can put new lenses into your existing frames if they are in good condition, properly aligned, and the right shape for your new prescription. The frames must not be bent, cracked, weakened, or outdated in a way that affects proper lens fitting and positioning. Strong prescription changes might require a different frame size, different shape, or more supportive frame style for the best lens performance, optical clarity, and cosmetic appearance. Bring your current frames to our optical department and we can evaluate whether they are suitable for new lenses or if new frames would provide better results.
Progressive lenses require your brain to learn a new way of seeing because different zones of the lens provide different powers for different distances. The small areas of blur on the sides of the lens, which are unavoidable in progressive lens design, can make you feel slightly off-balance or disoriented initially. Most people adapt within one to two weeks of consistent wear by learning to turn their head and point their nose at what they want to see rather than just moving their eyes. Some individuals need slightly longer to adapt fully, especially if this is their first pair of progressive lenses or if they have a strong prescription. Consistent all-day wear speeds adaptation, while switching back and forth with old glasses significantly delays it.
Premium coatings like anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and UV-blocking treatments can significantly improve visual comfort, lens durability, and optical clarity throughout the life of your glasses. If you drive frequently at night, work on a computer for several hours daily, or wear your glasses from morning until bedtime, these coatings usually provide excellent value by reducing glare, eye strain, and the need for premature lens replacement. We help you decide which coatings make the most sense based on how you use your glasses, your daily activities, your work environment, your budget, and your priorities for vision quality and lens longevity.
Contact our office right away so we can help you get a replacement pair as quickly as possible. If we have your current prescription and measurements on file in our records, we can often start ordering new glasses immediately without requiring a new exam, depending on when your last exam was performed. This is one important reason why keeping a backup pair of glasses or an older pair with a close prescription can be very helpful for emergencies, giving you functional vision while your new glasses are being made. For patients who depend entirely on their glasses for driving or working, we can sometimes expedite orders or provide temporary solutions while your new glasses are being crafted.
Polarized lenses reduce reflected glare from horizontal surfaces and dramatically improve visual comfort outdoors, especially for driving in bright sunlight, spending time on or near water, and activities on snow or other highly reflective surfaces. If you experience significant glare discomfort outdoors, have light-sensitive eyes, or participate in outdoor activities where glare interferes with seeing clearly, polarized lenses are highly beneficial. Always choose polarized lenses with complete 100 percent UVA and UVB protection to guard against long-term sun damage. We offer prescription polarized sunglasses in many stylish frame options for patients throughout the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area.
Prism is a special type of correction that helps your eyes align properly and work together as a coordinated team. It is prescribed when your eyes tend to point in slightly different directions, causing double vision, eyestrain, headaches, or difficulty with depth perception and reading. Prism is measured in prism diopters and written with a base direction such as base up, base down, base in, or base out, which tells us how to orient the prism correction in your lenses. Not everyone needs prism, so this field will be blank on most prescriptions. Our ophthalmologists carefully test for eye alignment issues during comprehensive exams and prescribe prism only when it provides meaningful benefit for your visual comfort and function.
Your Partner in Clear, Comfortable Vision
Choosing the right prescription eyeglasses involves understanding your vision needs, selecting appropriate lenses and coatings, and finding frames that fit well and suit your lifestyle. At ReFocus Eye Health Penndel, we guide you through every step, from explaining your prescription in terms you understand to making final adjustments for optimal comfort and clarity. If you have questions about your glasses or notice changes in your vision, our team of ophthalmologists and optometrists is here to help you see your best every day.
Dr. Amin is an exceptionally patient ophthalmologist. She thoroughly examined my eyes and identified the true cause of my inflammation, providing the appropriate treatment. I am deeply grateful for Dr. Amin's professionalism
S. Zeng
Had cataract surgery April, Premium Vivity lenses. Now need glasses for reading and distance. See doctor in months, hopefully vision improves.
Christopher Powell
Staff was friendly. Dr. Soll is very friendly and knowledgeable. Recommend this office.
Carol Scott
I see Dr. Soll. He is very knowledgeable, and I trust what he tells me. I recommend him.
Marie Abbate
Suffering since Jan with pain, Wills Eye couldn’t figure it out. Dr. Soll gave same-day appt, removed it. Felt better! Dr. Soll is a God send. Forever grateful. Best ophthalmologist ever!!!
Cam Fen
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