When it comes to vision correction, glasses and contact lenses might seem interchangeable, but their prescriptions aren’t. Glasses and contact lens prescriptions are not the same, and using one in place of the other won’t deliver the clarity or comfort you need.
While both aim to correct your vision, they differ in how they’re measured, how they fit, and how they interact with your eyes. Understanding these differences can help you make more confident choices when it comes to your vision care.
What Is a Glasses Prescription?
A glasses prescription acts as a precise guide to help correct refractive errors in your vision. Whether you’re dealing with nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism, your glasses prescription is carefully calculated to bring clarity into focus.
Important Information in a Glasses Prescription
Here are some of the definitions to keep in mind when reading your glasses prescription:
- Sphere (SPH) indicates the lens strength needed to correct your overall vision.
- Cylinder (CYL) and axis correct astigmatism by specifying how the lens should compensate for irregular curvature in the eye.
- Add (ADD) is for multifocal or progressive lenses. This accounts for additional magnification to correct presbyopia (typically for near-vision clarity).
Glasses are designed based on the fact that they sit about 12–14 millimeters away from your eyes. Because of this distance, they don’t require the same precise adjustments as contact lenses.
Why a Glasses Prescription Won’t Work for Contact Lenses
Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye (cornea), making their prescription different from glasses. Even a small difference in distance can impact the strength and specifications of the lens. That’s why using a glasses prescription for ordering contact lenses simply won’t work.
Unique Elements of a Contact Lens Prescription
- Base Curve (BC) determines the curvature of the contact lens to match the natural shape of your cornea to achieve a proper fit.
- Diameter (DIA) ensures the proper size and coverage for comfort and stability.
- Material and brand are the specific materials and contacts needed to support your eye health needs and lifestyle.
- Lens power adjustments may slightly differ from your glasses to account for the proximity to your eyes.
At Eyes on Plainville, we use the proper tools and personalized care during contact lens exams to find lenses that offer comfort and clear vision. A professional fitting is helpful for avoiding issues like blurred vision, discomfort, or even eye health complications.
Glasses vs. Contact Lenses Prescription
While both prescriptions aim to correct vision, they differ in several ways.
Fitting Process
- Glasses: Once your lenses are prepared, the main focus is selecting frames that suit your style and align with your prescription.
- Contacts: Contact lens fittings involve precise measurements of your cornea’s size and curvature. These measurements help determine the right shape and type of contact lens for your eyes.
Lifestyle & Comfort
- Glasses are low-maintenance and can double as a fashion statement. They are a good option for days when you want minimal effort or need to give your eyes a break.
- Contacts are great for active lifestyles and allow you to enjoy unobstructed vision during physical activities. They’re also a good choice for those who prefer not to alter their appearance with frames.
Health Considerations
- Glasses are generally easier to care for and pose lower direct risk to your eyes.
- Contacts often require more maintenance. Cleaning, proper storage, and adhering to replacement schedules are important for helping prevent infections and discomfort.
Thinking About Trying Contacts? Here’s What to Expect
If you’re considering making the switch to contact lenses, rest assured that the process is straightforward yet thorough. We will always prioritize your comfort and eye health.
Typical Steps in a Contact Lens Fitting
- Comprehensive eye exam: Before prescribing contacts, we evaluate your vision needs and verify that your eyes are healthy for contact wear.
- Personalized fitting: We measure your eye’s shape and curvature to determine the right lenses for you.
- Training session: Our team will teach you how to put in, remove, and care for your lenses with ease.
- Follow-up care: We’ll schedule a follow-up to confirm your lenses are comfortable, fit properly, and meet your vision needs.
Our team at Eyes on Plainville is here to support you every step of the way, whether you’re trying contacts for the first time or upgrading to a new prescription.
Clearer Vision Your Way
Your vision is as unique as you are, and choosing between glasses and contacts is a personal decision. At Eyes on Plainville, our dedicated team is here to guide you toward the best solution for your lifestyle and needs. From stylish frames to precision-fitted contact lenses, we’ve got you covered.
Book your appointment today to start your personalized vision care journey. Whether you’re a lifelong glasses wearer or ready to explore the freedom of contact lenses, we’re here to help you see (and live) your best.
