Eyeglasses, Frames & Lenses
Home > Eyeglasses, Frames & Lenses
Eyeglasses are worn to correct refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia and/or astigmatism), but can also be a fashion statement. Choosing frames for your face shape is important. The right eyeglass frames enhance your appearance and create your own style. There are many options as far as material, shape, size and price, including expensive designer eyeglasses.
Eyeglass lenses are also an important decision, and they come in different materials that are thinner and lighter. Lens options include:
- multifocal lenses (bifocals) has multiple prescription powers ground into a single lens. This enables you to wear only one pair of glasses to correct both myopia and hyperopia, instead of many.
- progressive lenses are the same as multifocal lenses, except the transition between prescription powers is seamless.
- photochromic lenses are transparent when indoors, but darken when exposed to ultraviolet light (UV).
- polycarbonate lenses are thin, lightweight lenses made out of an impact-resistant plastic that offers 100% UV protection. Lenses made out of polycarbonate are significantly safer for eyeglass wearers than lenses made out of glass.
You have alternatives for purchasing your eyewear. Optical shops are an obvious choice, or you can buy your eyeglasses online. Knowing the frames, type of lenses and your prescription may enable you to save some money by shopping online. However, your eye doctor will have trained specialists to help you choose the best option for you if you are confused.
For more information on eyeglass frames and lenses, visit AllAboutVision.com's Consumer Guide to Prescription Eyeglasses.