But what happens when your new progressives just don’t feel right?
Maybe you’re having trouble finding the right spot to read. Perhaps your computer screen isn’t as clear as you’d like, or things seem a little different when you turn your head.
We’ve heard these concerns before, and we’re happy to help.
While it can take a little time to become comfortable with new progressive lenses, we don’t believe you should simply have to put up with glasses that aren’t working well for you.
A Little Adjustment
Is Normal Unlike traditional bifocals, progressive lenses provide a gradual change in prescription from distance vision through intermediate and near vision.
That means different areas of the lens are designed for different tasks. Looking across the room, working at your computer, and reading a book all require you to use slightly different portions of the lens.
If you’re new to progressives, finding those areas may take some practice. Even longtime progressive wearers can notice a difference when changing frames, prescriptions, or lens designs.
A little patience can help, but so can a little guidance. Sometimes simply understanding how to use your new lenses makes a surprising difference.
And if something doesn’t seem right, we’d rather you ask than struggle.
Sometimes It’s Not the Lenses. It’s the Fit.
One of the first things we look at when someone is having difficulty with their progressives is how the glasses sit on their face.
Are they slipping down your nose? Sitting too high or too low? Are you having to raise your chin to see your computer or constantly moving your glasses to find a comfortable reading position?
Small changes in frame position can make a noticeable difference in how progressive lenses perform.
We look at how the frame fits, where your eyes are positioned in relation to the lenses, and whether the different viewing areas are where they need to be.
Sometimes a careful adjustment is all that’s needed. Other times, we need to look a little further.
The Right Progressive Lens for the Way You Live
Not all progressive lenses are alike, and not everyone uses their glasses in the same way.
Someone who spends most of the day working at a computer has different visual demands
than someone who spends more time driving, reading, or moving between different
activities.
Even the height and distance of your computer monitor can make a difference.
That’s why we like to know a little about how you use your glasses. Are you working with
multiple screens? Reading for long periods? Frequently looking from your desk to someone
across the room?
These details help us determine whether your current progressive design is a good match
for your needs.
In some situations, a separate pair of occupational or computer lenses may provide a more
comfortable solution for extended near and intermediate work.
The goal isn’t simply to put the latest lens design in your frame. It’s to find the right lenses
for you.
What If Something Still Doesn’t Seem Right?
If you’re having trouble with your new progressives, bring them in and let’s take a look.
We can check the fit of the frame, review the lens measurements and positioning, and verify that the lenses match your written prescription.
It also helps to bring your previous glasses, if you have them. Comparing the old pair with the new can sometimes tell us quite a bit.
Most importantly, tell us what you’re experiencing. Is reading uncomfortable? Is your distance vision unclear? Are you having trouble at the computer? Does one eye seem different from the other?
The more we understand about when and where you’re having difficulty, the better we can help identify what may be going on. Sometimes the answer is a simple frame adjustment.
Sometimes a different lens design deserves consideration. And occasionally, the prescription itself needs to be reviewed by your eye doctor.
If you experience a sudden or significant change in vision, particularly flashes, new floaters, or a shadow across your vision, seek urgent medical attention rather than assuming it’s a problem with your glasses.
Good Vision Is About More Than a Prescription
A prescription is an important starting point, but there’s more to a comfortable pair of progressive glasses than the numbers written on a piece of paper.
Frame selection, lens design, accurate measurements, proper fitting, and understanding how you’ll use your glasses all play a part.
And when something isn’t quite right, experience and attention to detail matter.
At Dietz-McLean, we enjoy helping people get the most out of their eyewear. Whether you’re wearing progressives for the first time or have worn them for years, we’re happy to answer questions, make adjustments, and help you understand your options.
Your glasses should work for you, not the other way around.
If your progressive lenses aren’t as comfortable or clear as you’d hoped, stop by DietzMcLean.
