How Can You Tell if Your Progressive Lenses Are Fitted Right? (2024)

Are your regular eyeglass lenses no longer helping like they used to? Have you recently noticed a decline in the quality of your vision? These are both signs that it may be time for you to upgrade to progressive lenses.

They cost more than standard eyeglass lenses but can offer many benefits. You have likely heard that they take time to get used to. It could be a sign that you need to get them fitted again if you still aren’t used to them after a few weeks. You can keep reading to learn more about progressive lenses and signs that you need to get yours re-fitted.

What Are Progressive Lenses?

They are bifocal lenses without any line. You’ve likely come across lined bifocals in your local pharmacy or grocery store. Eyeglass wearers tend to like these more than their lined bifocals because they’re functional and offer a more youthful look.

You likely know they are traditionally used to treat presbyopia in adults over the age of 40. You may not know that there are different types available to treat symptoms other than presbyopia, such as visual fatigue or eye strain.

Types

Types of progressive lenses include standard progressive lenses, premium progressive lenses, blue light lenses, and computer progressive lenses.

Standard and premium ones are among the most common types and offer similar benefits. Standard ones are less expensive than premium ones and can help most prescriptions. Premium ones are custom made to fit your eye by a computer and offer the clearest vision.

If you’re someone who works in an office setting or someone who has to look at a screen all day for work, computer or blue light lenses may be a good choice for you. Computer ones can help with visual fatigue. Blue light glassescan help reduce eye strain caused by the blue light emanating from your computer screen.

Progressive contact lenses are available as an option to people dealing with presbyopia who may not want to buy corrective eyeglasses.

Whether you have progressive lenses and are looking to upgrade or you’ve been told that they may help with your eye problems, make sure to browse all the different types of progressive lensesto find which type will best help you before you buy.

Not Fitting Right?

They take on average two to three weeks to adjust to. That being said, if you still are having issues seeing out of your new progressive lenses after a couple of weeks, it could be a sign that they need to be re-fitted.

Common signs that your lenses aren’t fitting right include: having to lift your head to read at a close distance; having to look downwards to read at a far distance; and experiencing blurry vision.

Have to Lift your Head to Read at a Close Distance?

If you’re finding that you need to lift either your head or glasses to read at a close distance, this could be a sign that your progressive lenses are fitting too low on your face. Either you or your eye doctor may be able to fix this issue by adjusting your frame to sit higher on your face or adjusting the nose pads to be closer together.

Have to Look Downwards to Read at a Far Distance?

If you’ve noticed that you have to lower your head or glasses to read at a distance, this could be a sign that your progressive lenses have been fitted high on your face. Either you or your eye doctor may be able to correct this by adjusting your frames to sit lower on your face or by widening the nose pads.

Blurry Vision?

It’s normal for your new eye prescription to seem blurry at first. Having blurry vision could also be a sign that your PD (pupillary distance) is off and that you need to return your progressive lenses.

The Importance of Knowing Your PD (Pupillary Distance)

PD (pupillary distance) is the distance between your pupils. Your PD is one of the most important parts of your progressive lens prescription. This is because your PD determines where your pupils sit behind your lens. Not having the correct PD can cause blurred vision, eye strain, dizziness, and nausea.

If a PD isn’t listed on your eyeglasses prescription, then you’ve purchased a standard PD. The problems you’re having with your progressive lenses could be a result of having a standard PD and not a customized PD.

Blurry Peripheral Vision?

They are blurry on the sides by design. It’s an error called surface astigmatism that is present in all progressive lenses. Blurred peripheral vision is not necessarily a sign that you need to get them fitted again. You should be able to see clearly near and at a distance in your progressive lenses as long as you are standing in your natural position.

Get Your Progressive Lenses Re-fitted Today

EZ Opticals has helped the residents of Houston with their eye care needs for close to three decades. If you need to get your progressive lenses re-fitted or want to get fitted for a pair and live in Houston, come schedule an appointmenttoday.

Visit our blog for more information on how to protect your vision as a contact or eyeglass wearer. Keep your eye healthy; you’ll be thanking yourself in the future.

How Can You Tell if Your Progressive Lenses Are Fitted Right? (2024)

FAQs

How do you know if your progressive lenses are correct? ›

Common signs that your lenses aren't fitting right include: having to lift your head to read at a close distance; having to look downwards to read at a far distance; and experiencing blurry vision.

Is it normal for progressive lenses to be blurry at first? ›

What can you expect as you adapt to progressive lenses? One of the most commonly reported side effects of progressive lenses is blurry or fuzzy peripheral vision. The blurriness is usually most noticeable through the lower portion of the lens and to the left and right of near and immediate zones.

How do you check if you have the right prescription in your lenses? ›

If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period of time, after the adjustment period, your prescription may be incorrect:
  1. Extreme blurring of vision.
  2. Lack of focus.
  3. Poor vision when one eye is closed.
  4. Excessive eye strain.
  5. Headaches or dizziness.
  6. Vertigo or nausea, unrelated to a medical condition.

Do your eyes have to adjust to progressive lenses? ›

You may need time to adjust to your lenses. Most people get used to them after a week or two, but it can take longer. A few people never like the changes in vision and give up on bifocals or progressives.

What is the normal fitting height of progressive lens? ›

The minimum fitting height for progressive lenses is 28-30mm. This will allow proper room in each part of the lens so that you can see your best, whether you're driving or using your computer.

How do opticians measure for progressive lenses? ›

This is accomplished through two measurements the opticians will take before ordering your new lenses: Pupillary Distance and Fitting Height. Pupillary Distance (PD) is the distance between the pupils. Fitting Height measures from the center of the pupil to the bottom of the lens for each eye.

Do you move your head or eyes with progressive lenses? ›

Progressive lenses allow you to see at all distances with one pair of glasses. They start with your distance prescription (if you have one) at the top of the lens and increase as you move toward the bottom of the lens. You simply move your head position to allow you to focus through different areas of the lens.

What is the main drawback of progressive lenses? ›

Drawbacks of Progressive Lenses

Some people never adjust, but most do. During the learning period, you may feel dizzy and nauseous from looking through the wrong section of lens. There may also be some distortion of your peripheral vision (what you see on the edges when looking straight ahead).

How long does it take for your eyes to adjust to new progressive glasses? ›

The adjustment time varies greatly depending on the individual and their prescription, but overall, people adapt very well to their new progressive lenses. If wearing your progressive lenses still doesn't feel comfortable after two or three weeks, feel free to consult your Opto-Réseau eye care professional.

Can opticians get your prescription wrong? ›

Sometimes, your glasses prescription can be wrong because you didn't give accurate readings in your eye exam (especially if you're experiencing eye fatigue). It could be due to human error from an incorrectly written prescription. It could also be because your prescription has changed over time.

Can wearing the wrong prescription glasses damage your eyes? ›

Wearing the Wrong Prescription Long-Term

There isn't a risk of long-term eye damage in most adults with stabilized vision. But, you can still experience symptoms affecting vision and comfort. Wearing a prescription that is too weak or too strong can cause: Blurry vision.

What happens if your eye prescription is too strong? ›

When your prescription is too high, you will notice that you begin to feel dizzy and nauseous within some time of wearing your prescription glasses or lenses. This is a sure indication of a wrong prescription.

How can I make my progressive lenses more comfortable? ›

Progressive lenses are meant to be worn all day. So, though there may be some discomfort at first, stick with it – consistent wear will speed up the adjustment process. Wear them full-time for about two weeks and after completely adjusting to them, you can wear them only as needed, if preferred.

Why can't I read with my progressive lenses? ›

If you've noticed that you have to lower your head or glasses to read at a distance, this could be a sign that your progressive lenses have been fitted high on your face. Either you or your eye doctor may be able to correct this by adjusting your frames to sit lower on your face or by widening the nose pads.

Can some people not tolerate progressive lenses? ›

Some people may not be able to handle the adjustment period. People who suffer from headaches, nausea, vertigo, or are prone to motion sickness may not be able to adjust to progressive lenses.

Is it safe to drive with progressive lenses? ›

Yes, you can drive with progressive lenses. However, it is recommended to give your eyes a few days to adjust before you drive.

Are my progressive lenses too high? ›

Now, we will show you how to see if the lenses are too high. Look at an object in a distance 65 feet away or more. If you can't see it clear, keep your eyes on the object and lower your chin. Check whether you can see clearly while looking through a more upper part in the lens than your lenses are too high.

What should my lens width be? ›

The width of your frames should not be wider than the width of your face at the temples. The top of your frames should be no higher than the line of your eyebrows. The lower edge of the frames shouldn't sit on your cheeks otherwise they will start to rub against your skin and cause irritation.

What is the minimum fitting height for all Varilux lenses? ›

It is recommended to verify the printed chart is the correct size with a ruler. *Minimum fitting height for Varilux Physio DRx™ and Varilux Comfort DRx™ is 17mm.

Are premium progressive lenses worth it? ›

premium progressive lenses? If the price is a factor, opt for standard progressive lenses. However, if you have a complicated prescription or need customized lenses, premium progressive lenses are the better option. Either way, the new glasses will help get your vision back on track.

Where do you measure progressive lenses? ›

Make sure you are measuring from the bottom of the clear lens, not the bottom of the frame (see graphic above). Stare straight ahead and read the millimeter line that lines with the center of your pupil. This is your segment height measurement for these frames.

What is standard progressive for eyeglasses? ›

Standard progressive lenses are exactly what they sound like, regular progressive lenses. They provide a wide reading area but are less specialized than other lenses. Standard progressives typically have a longer drop between prescriptions and require larger frames.

Why are my progressive lenses blurry at the bottom? ›

Blurry Peripheral Vision? They are blurry on the sides by design. It's an error called surface astigmatism that is present in all progressive lenses. Blurred peripheral vision is not necessarily a sign that you need to get them fitted again.

Is there something better than progressive lenses? ›

Bifocal lenses provide a clear distinction between near and far vision prescription within the lens. While many people may immediately choose a progressive lens, a bifocal may be a better fit for your lifestyle and vision needs.

Which brand is good for progressive lenses? ›

Progressive lenses manufacturers

Some of them are Varilux (Essilor), Zeiss, Hoya, Indo or Rodenstock.

What is highest quality progressive lens? ›

Varilux S Series lenses are the best, most advanced progressives on the market today. Varilux S Series provides all of the benefits of other Varilux lens designs while virtually eliminating the “off-balance” feeling sometimes experienced by progressive lens wearers.

What is the difference between standard and premium progressive lenses? ›

What is the difference between the premium progressives and standard progressives? Our high-definition premium progressives feature wider intermediate and reading areas of the lens than standard progressives.

What to expect when getting new progressive lenses? ›

The most common complaint when adjusting to progressive lenses is blurry vision, headaches, nausea and balance issues. It can take some time to train your eyes and brain to see clearly at a distance and close-up. Most people will adjust to their new lenses in only a few days but for some, it could take up to two weeks.

What does it feel like when your eyes are adjusting to new glasses? ›

After getting new eyeglasses, it is quite common for some people to experience discomfort. Your brand new glasses might give you nose marks and pain. Some may even feel eye strain while others get pain at the back of their ears. All of these problems may be occurring because your eyeglasses do not fit you correctly.

Why are my new glasses the same prescription but blurry? ›

Experiencing blurriness or some distortion with new prescription glasses, whether they're your first eyeglasses ever or are an updated power of lens, is a common occurrence. Relax. Your eyes are simply adjusting to a new way of seeing after previously compensating for less-than-perfect vision.

How do I know if my PD is wrong? ›

The wrong PD can induce eye strain, fatigue, headaches and blurry vision. If you have a high prescription and the wrong PD these symptoms are often much worse. In my practice, some patients will complain that they “just don't feel right”. Sometimes it is a vague sense that something is wrong with their glasses.

Should I get a second opinion on my eye prescription? ›

Remember, getting a second opinion is entirely warranted if you or your child's current vision assessment does not include an evaluation of functional vision skills. By having this testing done, you may find the solution to an undetected problem.

Why can't I see properly with my new glasses? ›

Some people only need a couple of days to get accustomed to new glasses, while others need up to two weeks. So it's completely normal if you can only see the frame rim of your glasses when you first put them on. The reason for this lies in the brain's visual centre.

What is a normal astigmatism number? ›

Astigmatism is measured in diopters. A perfect eye with no astigmatism has 0 diopters. Most people have between 0.5 to 0.75 diopters of astigmatism. People with a measurement of 1.5 or more typically need contacts or eyeglasses to have clear vision.

What makes your eyesight worse? ›

Diet, smoking and excessive alcohol can all make a difference to your eyesight in the long run. Long-term effects of consuming too much alcohol can increase your risk of eye disease, including AMD and cataracts.

Should progressive lenses be blurry? ›

It's normal for your new eye prescription to seem blurry at first. Having blurry vision could also be a sign that your PD (pupillary distance) is off and that you need to return your progressive lenses.

How do I know if my eye prescription is stable? ›

The generally accepted guideline for stability is a change of 0.75 or less in any component of the prescription over the last year. So, if one year ago a patient wore –2.00 glasses and today they are using –2.75 or less their prescription is considered stable.

What is the most severe eye prescription? ›

Mild: -0.50 to -3. Moderate: -3.25 to -5.00. High: -5.25 to -10. Extreme: greater than-10.

Is there a difference in quality of progressive lenses? ›

Premium progressive lenses are designed to provide a wider and smoother view. They are highly customizable for your prescription, chosen frame, and eye anatomy. This means you'll have less visual distortions since they are custom-made for your eyes.

Are there different quality progressive lenses? ›

There are several different types of progressive lenses, including: Computer progressive lenses. Premium progressive lenses. Ground-view progressive lenses.

Are more expensive progressive lenses better? ›

Conversely, higher-quality progressive lenses position the drop so that the wearer can look through it naturally, and reduce peripheral distortion by making the viewing area wider. These changes make the lenses more expensive, but result in far better comfort and vision quality.

What is the best frame shape for progressive lenses? ›

Progressive wearers should avoid aviators and cat-eyes because both can cut off the bottom portion of the prescription, resulting in a loss of reading vision. Instead, they should look for shorter frames with rounded edges such as horn-rimmed, retro wingtip, circular, and oval ones.

Should you wear progressive glasses all the time? ›

Progressive lenses are meant to be worn all day. So, though there may be some discomfort at first, stick with it – consistent wear will speed up the adjustment process. Wear them full-time for about two weeks and after completely adjusting to them, you can wear them only as needed, if preferred.

Why can't I see my computer with my progressive lenses? ›

Progressive lenses don't work well for computer screens because the intermediate part of the lens isn't wide enough to allow you to see the width of your monitor simply by moving your eyes. This forces you to move your head from side to side to see the entire screen.

What brand of progressive lenses does Walmart use? ›

Eyeglass Lens Replacement Walmart | We use Essilor prescription lenses, the best brand for the sharpest vision.

Are expensive progressive lenses worth it? ›

2. Progressive lenses cost a bit more than other multifocal lenses. Compared to bifocals and trifocals, progressives may seem like an expensive option. But given their convenient, streamlined design and the fact that they correct vision at so many distances, most wearers find the price to be worth it.

What brand of progressive lenses does Costco use? ›

Kirkland Signature™ HD Progressive Lenses:

Latest manufacturing technology available delivers high definition vision at any distance. Includes Anti-Reflective Treatment. Custom made lens for your prescription and selection. Offers a larger reading area and less distortion than standard lenses.

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