Five Things You Should Ask Your Optometrist

If eyes are the windows to your soul then shouldn't you know a bit about the glass? Many of us wear spectacles but how much do we really know about them?

While frames have been changing with the fashions, lenses have changed more in the last 15 years than in the previous 150 years, developments in lenses virtually paralleling the innovations and expansion of the digital revolution.

Here are some of the key things you must know before buying your next pair of glasses:



1. How often do I need to have my eyes checked? What about my kids?
The general consensus for adults is every two years. Babies and toddlers should be tested at six and 18 months, and again before starting school. School children should be tested every three years if they don't wear glasses and every two if they do. Glasses should last the life of your prescription or about two years. All private health funds will reimburse on an annual basis for a pair of glasses so why not keep your sunglasses up to date too?

2. Aren't lenses all the same?
An enormous variety of lenses are available, there are more than 15 different plastic materials alone. These new plastics can make lenses up to 50% thinner and unbreakable polycarbonate gives a thin and tough alternative. New lens designs are arriving all the time, they have one objective to make vision sharper, clearer and more comfortable for the wearer.

3. My optometrist talks about different 'treatments' I can get on my lenses. What are they and why should I get them?
Most people will receive, at the very least, a scratch resistant coating or 'hard-coat' (a varnish) on their lenses. Anti-reflection is another useful treatment that effectively makes your lenses 'invisible' - when people look at you, they see your eyes; not your lenses. You can also request Transitions lenses that change colour with the amount of light and polarising lenses that filter out glare reflected off water, snow or even the car bonnet, so they are great for all sorts of outdoor activities.

4. I have three pairs of glasses as I need different ones for different distances - is there anything I could get that would mean less pairs?
Progressive lenses are definitely an option, as they offer a seamless change from distance to reading, providing the right focus for each distance. However, if working with computers you may benefit from 'enhanced reading' lenses (also called extended focus) as a second pair for prolonged close work. Focused for both reading and the computer they extend the area of clear vision beyond arms length.

It is important to remember that one pair of glasses might not be the best solution for your vision needs; your work, hobbies, outdoor activities, and need for convenience, must all be taken into account so your practitioner can provide you the best solution.

5. Can all types of lenses fit in all types of frames?
Choosing your frames and lenses needs to done together. Even high prescriptions can be made into beautiful glasses if the right choices are made. For example, certain prescriptions are not suitable for rimless frames yet can be made very thin and attractive in a modern metal frame.

For further information about Essilor Australia, please visit www.essilor.com.au