Difference between contact lens prescription and eyeglass prescription

Mar 4
08:23

2015

Amanda phelan

Amanda phelan

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The choice between eyeglasses and contact lens is pretty much based on personal preferences. Comfort, lifestyle, correction needs, budget, look etc. are some of the factors that affect the decision of whether to choose lenses or spectacles.

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Contact lenses,Difference between contact lens prescription and eyeglass prescription Articles when compared to eyeglasses, have a few advantages in terms of wearability, affordability, style, and comfort.

  1. Contact lenses don’t feel like a burden on you because it is worn directly into your eye.
  2. Contact lenses are affordable and will not burn a hole in your pocket, unlike frames and glasses that cost a fortune
  3. Contact lenses allow you to retain your personal style, and sometimes even accentuate it, if you’re experimenting with colors.
  4. Contact lenses allow you to enjoy outdoor activities without having to worry about them breaking.

Like an eyeglass prescription, a contact lens prescription includes the power of the lens that you require to correct your refractive error- be it myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. A contact lens prescription also contains additional information and specifications that are typically not present in an eyeglass prescription. Depending on the degree of your refractive error and the kind of contact lens prescribed, the powers mentioned on your contact lens prescription vary significantly than that on the eyeglass prescription.

Additional specifications are included in the contact lens prescription only after a thorough and comprehensive exam and fitting. These specifications include:

  1. Base curve: This measurement is based on the shape of your cornea and enables correct fitting
  2. Diameter: The lens diameter is the overall size of the lens and is also a factor that determines how the lens will fit.
  3. Lens Brand and Material: Your contact lens prescription will contain the specified brand and material for your contact lenses
  4. Expiration: A contact lens prescription is generally valid for a year, wherein eyeglass prescription is valid for two years.

Always keep in mind that your eye doctor is supposed to give you a prescription before you make any purchase. The doctor has no right to withhold the prescription from you. Check thoroughly before you’re  given a contact lens prescription. It cannot be written unless your doctor has performed a contact lens fitting or has referred to your previous prescription. A contact lens is the best option if you are an outgoing person and do not like wearing eyeglasses.