With the growing popularity of online shopping, more people are turning to the internet to purchase eyeglasses and contacts. Free shipping, trendy styles, and reduced prices are tempting benefits. However, there are significant risks involved that go beyond receiving an unflattering frame.
Before you decide to order your next pair of glasses online, consider the following pros and cons.
Pros of Ordering Glasses Online
1. Lower Prices
- One of the biggest draws of online eyewear is the reduced cost.
- While you may sacrifice build quality, coatings, and scratch resistance, the affordability can be appealing if price is your main priority.
2. Access to Trendy Frames
- Online retailers often carry a wide range of stylish and statement frames.
- The lower price point makes it easier to purchase multiple pairs for different occasions.
Cons of Ordering Glasses Online
1. Prescription Accuracy
- Entering your prescription manually increases the risk of typos or using outdated numbers.
- Incorrect prescriptions can lead to eye strain, headaches, or worsened vision.
2. One-Size-Fits-All Prescription
- Online orders typically allow for only one prescription per pair of glasses or contacts.
- This can be problematic, as most people require different prescriptions for each eye.
3. Challenges with Progressive Lenses
- Progressive lenses require precise adjustments for proper function.
- Online orders for progressives often fail to provide the necessary fine-tuning, significantly impacting usability.
4. Risks for Growing Eyes
- Ordering glasses online for children is especially risky.
- Prescription errors can lead to permanent or progressive vision issues, and children may not notice or report problems with their lenses.
5. Comfort Issues
- Glasses must fit your unique facial structure, including your nose and ears.
- Improperly fitted glasses can be uncomfortable to wear, especially if used frequently.
6. Uncertainty with Style
- While online retailers offer a wide variety of styles, knowing how frames will look on your face can be challenging.
- Virtual try-on tools are improving but still cannot replace the experience of trying frames in person.
Make an Informed Decision
While online retailers offer affordability and convenience, they come with risks that can affect your vision, comfort, and long-term eye health. For the best results:
- Visit your optometrist for an updated, accurate prescription.
- Work with trained professionals who can ensure your glasses fit comfortably and function properly.
- Explore a range of styles in person to find the frames that best suit your face and personality.
At The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we provide professional care, precise prescriptions, and a selection of fashionable frames. Contact us at one of our convenient locations to book an appointment or learn more about choosing the right glasses or contacts.
