Visiting your ophthalmologist and getting told that you need to wear glasses to aid your vision can be, for lack of a better word, a bummer. After all, it’s proof that you no longer have 20/20 vision and would need to hide your lovely eyes behind a pair of eyeglasses, perhaps for the rest of your life. Choosing a new pair of eyeglasses can be quite an ordeal in itself, because between lenses, frames, coating, and of course, price, the options can be very overwhelming.
Here are some things to consider to help you choose the perfect pair of eyeglasses:
• Go for Trivex or polycarbonate lenses
Polycarbonate lenses are made of plastic, which makes them lighter and more resistant to impact than lenses made of glass. This difference makes polycarbonate a better choice, particularly for children as well as for adults that lead active lifestyles. Trivex, another plastic material, is also a good choice and meets the same safety standards as polycarbonate lenses. In fact, lenses made with Trivex are even stronger, lighter, and clearer than their polycarbonate versions. They also minimize distortions and are perfect for those with a strong prescription, and those who want thinner lens.
If you really prefer glass lenses, talk to your ophthalmologist about your options. Modern technology has made them more resistant to shattering and scratches. Keep in mind, however, that these lenses are heavier than those made with plastic.
If you want to reduce the glare and amount of ultraviolet (UV) light entering your eyes, polarized lenses are a good option. These lenses are highly recommended for drivers and people who spend a lot of time outdoors, such as fishermen, and those who do a lot of fieldwork. These lenses are also beneficial for people who spend long hours in front a computer. Most lenses can be made polarized, albeit for a higher fee.
• Choose frames that are durable
Choosing durable frames help make your eyeglasses stand the test of time, and those made from metal, titanium, or alloys stand up well to wear and tear. There are also specific frames that work for specific lenses. Trivex or polycarbonate frames, for instance, work perfectly with rimless or drilled frames, due to their being lightweight. While metal frames are undoubtedly the most durable, plastic frames are an economical choice and, depending on its engineering, can withstand regular use as well and are available in a wide range of price, style, and colors.
• Consider protective coatings
Protective coatings are another feature you should keep in mind when choosing eyeglasses, as there are certain tints that help with contrast. Anti-reflective coatings help reduce glare and reflections that bounce off the surface of glasses. Coated lenses also help reduce glare from headlights and other lights, which is especially helpful when you’re driving at night. Brown or rose copper tints are helpful with contrast, while green and gray tints are helpful in maintaining color balance and cutting down light.
Photochromic lenses carry a tint that varies based on light exposure, meaning, they are darker in sunlight and lighter indoors, which is also why they are often called transition lenses. Keep in mind that these are not recommended for use in cars, as they need direct light from the sun to darken. People who suffer from migraines can benefit from a special boysenberry color tint, FL41, which cuts light sensitivity.
• Know your eyeglass lens designs
There are several types of eyeglass lens designs you can choose from. Single-vision lenses are designed specifically to correct distance vision and can be set to any focus, including near or intermediate vision, while bifocal lenses have two sections – one to correct reading on the bottom half, and distance on the top. Trifocals have three sections meant for distance vision, intermediate vision, and near vision.
If smooth transition between distance and near vision is important to you, then progressive lenses are the best option for you. These are often called no-line lenses, as they do not have visible dividing lines that are present in bifocals and trifocals. Progressive lenses mimic natural vision the best and offer smooth and gradual focus from far to near vision.
• Budget accordingly
Prices for a pair of eyeglasses can either be very expensive or ridiculously cheap, with lots of options in between. While a pair of designer eyeglasses are chic, keep in mind that something expensive does not always mean it’s better. You can find a pair of durable eyeglasses in a stylish frame at reasonable price points. Your optician can help you choose one that fits your budget and meets all your needs.
• Choose frames that best suit the shape of your face
Apart from choosing eyeglass frames that are durable, it is also important to choose one that will go suit the shape of your face perfectly.
Round faces can benefit from square or rectangular frames, as they tend to be wider. These can enhance the shape of your face by making it appear slimmer and longer, thus adding balance to your soft, rounded features. Stay away from rimless, round, and small frames, as they give your face a rounder, fuller appearance.
If you have an oval-shaped face, choose a geometric-shaped frame that has a strong bridge, as this is wider than the broadest part of your face. Steer clear of oversized frames that cover up more than half of your face, as they distort the natural balance and symmetry of your face shape.
Square-shaped faces look best in oval or round eyeglasses, as they soften the angles and sit high on the bridge of the nose. They also give square-shaped faces a thinner, more balanced appearance. Avoid frames that are angular and boxy, as they will sharpen your angular features, making your face look bulky.
Heart-shaped faces look best in eyeglasses with low-set temples and bottom heavy frame lines, as they add width to the narrower part of your face. Draw attention away from your broad, high forehead with round or square eyeglasses with curved edges.
Choosing the right pair of eyeglasses can be overwhelming, but armed with the right information and a thorough discussion with your optician, you will surely find the perfect pair for you.
Not quite sure if you need glasses?
If you are unsure about needing glasses, or if you are experiencing discomfort in your eyes, Arizona Retinal Specialists can conduct examinations to understand what’s causing these changes. It’s the only way to find out if you need glasses or other eye treatments and ultimately improve your vision. Call us today at 623-474-3937 (EYES).
