There are various online retailers which allow for the purchase of a new pair of prescription eyewear at a low cost. Online retailers allow you to choose a frame that you like, enter your prescription as well as credit card information and then wait for the mail to arrive. These online retailers offer various selections of quality frames at various pricing. While shopping online does seem easier and more convenient, sometimes you are not getting the best price for your dollar. Before you submit your online eyeglasses order, it is important to consider some risks of online shopping.
The first thing to consider is the cost. Although it seems that the prices are low online, the prices listed on the websites are for the frames alone. The lenses that you choose as well as any coatings and lens enhancements will add a significant cost to your cart. In addition, if you have vision insurance, you cannot use your vision benefit with online retailers which causes money to be unused.
The second thing to consider is the fit of the lenses. Online retailers will give you all of the information that you need to know including the frame measurements, bridge width, temple and arm lengths. Some websites will even allow you to upload a photo of yourself to “virtually” try on the glasses. Whereas the professionals at an optical shop will be able to appropriately fit the frame to your face and make any adjustments that are needed. They can also measure your pupillary distance in order to allow you to get the most use out of your glasses. Pupillary distance is an important measurement as it ensures that you are looking through an appropriate line of sight in your glasses. If the pupillary distance is off it can cause distortion, headaches and induced prism. Occasionally a vertical measurement has to be made on glasses especially for bifocals and progressives. If this measurement is off, it will take longer for a person to adapt to their new glasses as the reading portion or distance portion of the lenses may be off centered.
Online shopping may be a little bit more convenient sometimes, however you may spend more time picking out glasses as there are so many more options to choose from. A trained-on site optician can guide you through the process of deciding what types of frames would best fit you and your face shape. They can also precisely take measurements and accurately put your prescription into lenses in order to get the most benefit of your new purchase. If you are currently looking to get new glasses, make sure to schedule an eye exam at 860-233-2020 to make sure that your prescription is updated.
