4 things you need to know about buying eyewear online and in person

A lot of thought goes into choosing the perfect glasses, including finding the perfect frame. 

Eyewear is more than a medical device that helps you see, it can also be a fashion statement. From sophisticated and wise to edgy and adventurous, your frames can reflect your personality.

Frames are just one part of the equation when choosing your new eyewear though. Remember these four things as you shop for eyewear online or in person.

1. You’ll need to have a current prescription 

Your prescription can change from year to year, and you may not even notice it at first. You may think you see fine until you get an updated prescription and suddenly, the world looks so much clearer! That’s why it’s important to have an eye exam each year.

In addition to ensuring you have the correct prescription, an eye exam allows your eye doctor to check for signs of eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration. They will also check for signs of other health concerns like diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension.

Before you start shopping for new prescription glasses, make an appointment with an in-network doctor near you.

2. Frames aren’t one size fits all 

Your face is unique, so each frame will feel and look different on you than it does on someone else.

For example, if your frames are too big and don’t fit the bridge of your nose properly, they can slip throughout the day. Plus, most faces aren’t symmetrical, which is why your eye doctor’s office is trained to adjust your frames to sit evenly on your uniquely beautiful face. 

Eyewear also comes in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colors, it’s worth noting that some frames look better on certain face shapes. As you select your new frames, you’ll want to choose one that looks good with your face shape, supports your prescription needs, and is a color that compliments your skin tone while still reflecting your sense of style and personality.

3. Customization goes beyond frames 

Prescription glasses are, of course, used for a medical purpose. So, they need to do more than just look good, they need to help you see well, too!

When it comes to lenses, you have choices in lens types (such as single vision or progressives), lens materials, and lens enhancements. While many lenses are made of plastic, you can upgrade to impact-resistant or high-index lenses, among other options, based on your lifestyle and prescription needs.

Lens enhancements can help make your glasses function better and include options like:

• Anti-glare lens coatings

• UV protection

• Light-reactive options

Not sure which lens material and enhancements are right for you? Your eye doctor can help you select the best options for you and help you maximize your vision benefits in the process.

4. You have options when it comes to shopping for eyewear

You can shop for glasses in person at your eye doctor’s office, at retail locations like Visionworks^® and Eyemart Express.

If you plan to use your vision benefits to purchase prescription glasses, you can shop the frames available in your eye doctor’s office. They’ll help you choose the right frames and lenses and fit them to your face.

If you prefer to shop online elsewhere, research the company to ensure they use quality materials. Keep in mind that you may not be able to use your vision benefits at all online stores, which means you’ll spend more out-of-pocket.

Happy shopping!

The right pair of glasses do more than help you see your best, they also allow you to express your sense of self. Keep these four tips in mind as you shop for your new favorite pair of glasses.