Prescription Glasses: What They Are, How They Work, Types, and Benefits

Published on July 3rd, 2024

Updated on August 16th, 2024

Prescription glasses are worn to correct blurry vision caused by refractive errors such as hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism. The different types of prescription glasses lenses include single vision lenses, bifocal lenses, multifocal lenses, photochromic lenses and high index lenses. There are many different parts that make up a pair of prescription glasses including the frame, lenses, rim, bridge and temples. To obtain an eyeglass prescription, a person will need an eye test performed by an optometrist. Keep reading to learn more about how prescription glasses work and their benefits.

What are Prescription Glasses?

Prescription glasses are corrective devices worn to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism and presbyopia. Prescription glasses provide the wearer with clear and comfortable vision according to the prescription given to them by an optometrist. The meaning of an eyeglasses prescription is defined as what the optometrist or optical dispenser uses to provide the proper pair of lenses to correct a patient’s vision issues. Prescription glasses can be purchased online and in-store as long as the person has a valid prescription. If they require a new prescription, they can book an eye test with an optometrist who will assess their vision to determine what vision correction they need. Prescription glasses come in a variety of styles, sizes and colours to suit different personalities and styles.

Are Prescription Glasses and Prescription Lenses the Same Thing?

Most of the time, prescription glasses and prescription lenses are used interchangeably to refer to the same thing. Prescription glasses refer to corrective devices that include both the frame and lenses whereas prescription lenses only refer to the lenses.

How do Prescription Glasses Work?

Prescription glasses work by refracting light onto the retina using either a concave or convex lens, depending on the vision issue that is being corrected. A convex lens is used for hyperopia (farsightedness) and a concave lens is used for a person who has myopia (nearsightedness). A single vision prescription lens only contains one prescription throughout the entire lens, a bifocal lens contains two prescriptions for near and distance and a multifocal lens contains a prescription for near, intermediate and distance.

How to Know Your Eye Prescription?

If you need a copy of your eye prescription, you can ask your optometrist who conducted your most recent eye test to send it to you. When buying a pair of prescription glasses, you do not need to know what your eye prescription is as the optometrist and optical dispenser will have it on file and will provide recommendations for what lenses will be best for your prescription and lifestyle.

How to Read a Prescription for Eyeglasses?

A prescription for eyeglasses contains numbers and abbreviations that indicate what lenses will correct the person’s vision. The abbreviations you will typically find on a glasses prescription include SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD and PD. SPH (sphere) indicates the amount in numerals of farsightedness or nearsightedness a person has. CYL (cylinder) represents the amount of astigmatism a person has. AXIS specifies the angle, between 0-180 degrees, which corrects astigmatism. ADD shows the amount of magnification required for close vision (denoted with a “+” symbol). Finally, PD (pupillary distance) is the measurement in millimetres of the distance between a person’s pupils.

What is the Importance of Prescription Glasses?

The importance of prescription glasses is they provide vision correction for people who have vision issues caused by refractive errors or other eye diseases. Vision correction can significantly improve a person’s quality of life and can prevent inconvenient or dangerous situations that blurry vision may cause. If you believe you need prescription glasses, book an eye test with an optometrist so they can assess your vision and provide you with clear eyesight in the form of glasses.

What are the Types of Lenses for Prescription Glasses?

The types of lenses for prescription glasses include single vision lenses, multifocal lenses, bifocal lenses, photochromic lenses and high index lenses. The types of lenses for prescription glasses and their definitions are listed below.

Single vision lenses: Single vision lenses are a type of prescription glasses lens that corrects a single vision issue.
Multifocal lenses: Multifocal lenses are designed to provide clear vision for near, intermediate and distance vision issues.
Bifocal lenses: Bifocal lenses correct vision issues and have both a distance and near prescription which is separated by a line across the centre.
Photochromatic lenses: Photochromic lenses are clear when inside or in the shade but will darken to resemble the tint of sunglasses when in sunlight.
High index lenses: High index lenses are thin and light lenses designed for people with strong or high prescriptions to provide clear and comfortable vision.

The most common type of prescription glasses are single vision lenses which provide vision correction for a single distance such as far or near.

Five individual glasses lenses demonstrating the different types of prescription lenses.

1. Single Vision Lenses

Single vision lenses are a type of prescription glasses lens that corrects a single vision issue. A single vision lens contains one power, or prescription, over the whole surface of the lens as opposed to other prescription lenses that can hold multiple powers such as bifocals and multifocals. Single vision glasses work by refracting light onto the retina using either a concave lens for nearsightedness or a convex lens for farsightedness. Single vision lenses are prescribed by an optometrist to correct refractive errors such as hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. Single vision lenses prescribed to correct near vision are also known as reading glasses. At Oscar Wylee, single vision lenses can be purchased from $169 and include scratch-resistant lenses and a UV coating.

2. Multifocal Lenses

Multifocal lenses are designed to provide clear vision for near, intermediate and distance vision issues. Multifocal lenses contain multiple prescriptions to allow the wearer to see at three different distances and are also known as progressive lenses. The bottom portion of multifocal lenses is intended for near vision, the middle portion helps with intermediate vision, and the top portion improves distance vision. At Oscar Wylee, we offer three types of multifocal lenses, Standard, Premium and Elite. A pair of Standard Multifocals is at no additional cost on top of a pair of standard optical glasses. A pair of Premium Multifocals is an additional $130 and a pair of Elite Multifocals is an additional $235.

3. Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses correct vision issues and have both a distance and near prescription which is separated by a line across the centre. Bifocal lenses are similar to multifocals however they only have two prescriptions on the lens whereas multifocals have three. A person uses bifocals by moving their eyes behind the lenses according to the distance they wish to see. The larger top area of the lens contains the distance prescription which helps the wearer see far-away objects such as street signs and the TV. The smaller area at the bottom of the lens holds the near prescription, helping the wearer perform up-close activities such as reading and painting. Bifocals can also have certain add-ons, such as an anti-reflective or blue light filter coating applied to the lenses. Bifocals minimise the need for a separate pair of reading glasses as the wearer can see up close and far away all in one pair.

4. Photochromic Lenses

Photochromic lenses or adaptive lenses are a type of glasses lens that are clear when inside or in the shade but will darken to resemble the tint of sunglasses when in sunlight. This works as the dyes in a photochromic lens undergo a chemical reaction when exposed to UV light, which darkens the lens, and then reverses when the UV light is taken away, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Photochromic lenses are ideal for people who need the vision correction provided by normal prescription glasses but do not want to switch between prescription glasses and sunglasses when traveling inside and outside. Photochromic lenses adapt to lighting conditions meaning a person can have sunglasses and prescription glasses all in one pair. Oscar Wylee offers both their in-house brand and Transitions® GEN 8 of photochromic lenses, which come at an additional cost on top of the price of standard optical glasses.

5. High Index Lenses

High index lenses are thin and light lenses designed for people with strong or high prescriptions to provide clear and comfortable vision. High-index lenses work by bending light as it passes through the lens to hit the retina properly, correcting refractive errors. High-index lenses are made with a special material that makes them light and thin even while correcting high-level refractive errors. High index lenses are different from standard lenses because they bend light more efficiently due to the type of lens material. At Oscar Wylee, we offer high index lenses in a 1.6 index, 1.67 index and 1.74 index. 1.6 index lenses are recommended for prescriptions up to +/- 3 diopters, 1.67 index lenses are recommended for prescriptions up to +/- 4 diopters and 1.74 index lenses are ideal for all prescriptions but are recommended for those with +/-4 diopters and above.

How to Choose Prescription Glasses?

Choosing prescription glasses doesn’t have to be difficult if you know what you are looking for and have a valid prescription. To choose prescription glasses, first receive a prescription, find a frame style and ask the optical dispenser for assistance. The steps on how to choose prescription glasses are listed below.

Receive a prescription: Receive a prescription from an optometrist by having an eye test. The optometrist will identify your eye problems and prescribe the right type of lens for your glasses to give you clear vision.
Find a frame style: Find a frame style that you like. You may choose a frame based on factors such as face shape, personal style and comfort. Try on different shapes, sizes, and materials to find the frame that suits you best.
Ask the optical dispenser for assistance: Ask the optical dispenser for their recommendations on the most suitable style for your new lenses as some frames may not be able to fit all types of lenses.

A person picking up a pair of frames in an Oscar Wylee store.

What Type of Prescription Glasses Are Needed for Nearsightedness?

The type of prescription glasses needed for nearsightedness (myopia) are glasses with concave lenses. Concave lenses are shaped inwards at the centre and bulge outwards towards the edges to correct the focal issues of nearsightedness. Nearsightedness is a refractive error that causes a person’s distance vision to be blurry due to an overly curved cornea or an elongated eyeball. This means the eyes are not capable of bending and focusing light on the retina correctly.

Can Prescription Glasses be Used to Help Crossed Eyes?

Yes, in some cases prescription glasses may be used to help people with crossed eyes (strabismus). Prescription glasses can be used to treat patients who develop crossed eyes due to uncorrected refractive errors as they help reduce the effort it takes for the eyes to focus and as a result, keep them straight. Prescription glasses are a beneficial treatment for crossed eyes as they are a non-surgical treatment for this condition, and therefore less invasive.

What are the Recommended Prescription Glasses for Lazy Eyes?

Prescription glasses may be recommended as a treatment for lazy eyes (amblyopia) to correct the root cause behind the eye's inability to develop correctly, such as the refractive errors myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism. Prescription glasses may allow the lazy eye to function properly and develop to the same level as the stronger eye. This treatment is commonly used in children and needs to be monitored for an extended period of time to determine if the issue is being corrected. Other treatments for lazy eyes include eye patches, eye drops and surgery.

What are the Parts of Prescription Glasses?

There are many parts that make up a pair of prescription glasses including the frame, lenses, rim, bridge, hinges, screws, endpieces, temples and temple tips. The different parts of prescription glasses and their definitions are listed below.

Frame: The frame of prescription glasses is the structure that goes around the lenses and includes the arms, temples and nose bridge.
Lenses: Lenses refer to the plastic that sits in a glasses frame, in front of the eye, to provide vision correction and eye protection.
Rim: The rim of prescription glasses is the structure around the lenses that holds them in place.
Bridge: The bridge or nose bridge of a pair of prescription glasses refers to the part of the frame that sits on or above the nose and stops glasses from sliding off the face.
Nose pads: Nose pads are the two pieces of oblong material that rest on either side of the nose to help keep the frame on the face. Not all glasses have nose pads.
Hinges: Hinges are curved pieces on the side of the frame that connect the temples to the rim of the frame.
Screws: Screws for prescription glasses frames are located within the hinges.
Endpieces: Endpieces are small pieces of material that are attached to the side of the rim of prescription glasses and help to connect the temples to the lenses.
Temples: Temples, also known as arms of glasses, are the two pieces of the frame that go behind the ears and connect to the rim.
Temple tips: The temple tips of glasses are pieces of material that rest on the end of each temple or arm of the frame to help keep the frames in place.

A pair of prescription glasses with all the different parts labelled.

What is the Most Expensive Part of Prescription Glasses?

The most expensive part of prescription glasses can vary depending on the brand however it is most commonly the lenses. The price of lenses can increase depending on the type as multifocal lenses will be more expensive than single vision lenses as they provide vision correction for multiple distances. High index lenses can also be quite expensive due to the special material they are made from which provides vision correction for those with high prescriptions.

Where to Buy Prescription Glasses?

Prescription glasses can be purchased from online and in-store retailers across the country. If you need an eye test, many optical companies offer in-store eye tests where you can then browse for your new prescription glasses after the appointment. You can buy prescription glasses at Oscar Wylee both online and in one of our many stores. Visit a store near you to try on our wide range of stylish prescription glasses frames in an array of styles, colours and sizes.

Can Prescription Glasses be Ordered Online at Oscar Wylee?

Yes, prescription glasses can be ordered online at Oscar Wylee if you have a valid prescription available. The steps for ordering glasses from Oscar Wylee are to choose your desired frame from our wide range of styles, add your prescription to the order to get proper vision correction, select the lenses you want such as single vision and high index, choose your add-ons and finally check out. Deliveries on purchases made online will usually be dispatched within 7-10 business days.

A woman wearing a pair of prescription glasses.

How Much do Prescription Glasses Cost?

The cost of prescription glasses varies depending on the distributor, the types of lenses they contain and if any add-ons are applied. At Oscar Wylee, a pair of standard single vision prescription glasses can be purchased from $169. We also offer add-ons such as a Premium Anti-Reflective coating for an additional $45 and a Blue Light Filter for an additional $80.

Are Cheap Prescription Glasses Worth it?

Whether cheap prescription glasses are worth it depends on their quality. Cheap, bad-quality prescription glasses may not be worth it as they may break easily and not provide adequate vision correction. Cheap prescription glasses that can be bought over-the-counter from chemists and even some department stores are not recommended as they come with a preset magnification strength and have the same prescription in both lenses. This means the lenses have not been custom-made to give the wearer the best possible vision. For example, not all people have the same prescription for both eyes and also over-the-counter frames cannot correct astigmatism.

What are the Benefits of Prescription Glasses?

There are many benefits of wearing prescription glasses, the main being vision correction, but they also provide eye protection and are a fashionable item you can style with your outfits. The benefits of prescription glasses and their definitions are listed below.

Vision correction: Prescription glasses provide vision correction through the lenses which have a power over the lens to give the wearer clear and comfortable vision. Prescription glasses are prescribed by optometrists to correct vision that has been affected by refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
Eye protection: Prescription glasses offer protection by providing a barrier to a range of potentially harmful elements including wind, dust, sand and snow. A person can also purchase prescription sunglasses that protect the eyes against harmful UV rays emitted by the sun.
Fashionable: Not only do prescription glasses provide vision correction, but they are also a fashion statement. Glasses can be worn as an expression of your personality or as an accessory just like jewellery. At Oscar Wylee, we have a large selection of frames in different styles, colours and sizes to fit any personality.

Do Prescription Glasses Have Less Risk of Eye Problems than Contact Lenses?

Yes, in general, prescription glasses have less risk of developing eye problems than contact lenses as the lenses of glasses sit in front of the eye instead of directly on the eyeball. Contact lenses increase a person's risk of developing certain eye infections such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis. Other problems caused by contact lenses include dry eyes and allergic reactions. By following proper care and handling of contact lenses, the risk of these issues can be reduced. Proper care includes washing your hands before handling contacts, not sleeping in contact lenses and not swimming or showering in contacts.

Are There Risks in Wearing Prescription Glasses?

No, there are no risks in wearing prescription glasses, they are a corrective device worn to give the wearer clear vision. While there are some risks associated with contact lenses such as eye infections, this is mostly due to improper use.

Read Prescription Glasses: What They Are, How They Work, Types, and Benefits in other Oscar Wylee regions and their languages.