Do you need glasses?
After an eye examination we will give our honest opinion about whether you require spectacles for the first time or a change in your prescription. We will then advise on the best size and shape of spectacle frame for your prescription and facial features. We offer a huge range of modern spectacles for you to choose from. We will inform you of the best lens design and material and discuss options in terms of coatings, tints and filters.
We will then carefully measure the position of your eyes relative to the frame to ensure that the lenses are properly aligned. This is very important to avoid distortions and eye strain. Once the frame has been glazed with the lenses, our Dispensing Opticians will carefully fit the frame to ensure that it is correctly aligned and comfortable. Over time, frames can get loose or out of shape and we are always happy to provide adjustments and repairs.
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We have provided some answers to frequently asked questions about spectacles below but we would be delighted to provide further information. Please give us a call or drop into the practice.
Lens Materials
Modern lenses are usually made out of a special type of optical plastic. These lenses are lighter and stronger than the old glass lenses. If you have a higher prescription, the lenses can be made thinner by using a “high-index” type of plastic. Other types of plastic are available for those playing sports or working in hazardous environments. Our Opticians will explain all the options available to you and help you chose the best material for you prescription and lifestyle.
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Some vendors may recommend additional UV treatments but most plastics require no additional UV treatments.
Slimmer and lighter than basic, these are more compatible with anti-reflective and photochromic treatments. But they may require thicker lenses for those with strong prescriptions for farsightedness, limiting frame options.
This most expensive plastic is thinnest, lightest and provides the best clarity and comfort — and avoids that "Coke bottle" effect for strong prescriptions. Scratch-coating and UV protection are usually included. Because high-index lenses reflect more light, an anti-reflective coating is advised.
Originally designed for use in fighter jet canopies, this material produces lenses that are virtually unbreakable — ideal for active adults, kids or those with vision in only one eye. These lenses offer similar benefits to high-index (and typically include scratch resistance and UV protection) but may cause color distortions. A similar product, Trivex, can offer crisper vision, but may cost more.
Lens Tints, Filters & Designs
Modern lenses can be dyed or coated to provide various tints and lens surface characteristics. We can provide a wide range of coloured tints. Alternatively we can supply photochromic lenses which adjust automatically to the light. We can also provide polarised lenses to reduce glare. Anti-reflection coatings reduce the reflections from the surface of lenses improving their optical performance and the appearance. Anti-scratch coatings provide a hard coating to reduce scratching and extend the life of your lenses. Our Opticians will explain all the tints and coatings available to you and help you chose the best options for you prescription and lifestyle.
Lens design has progressed enormously over the past few years with modern lenses providing a superb level of comfort and clarity. We use lenses from a variety of manufacturers to provide you with a variety of options and to ensure that your vision is optimised. Our Opticians will explain all the lens designs available to you and help you chose the best type of lens for you prescription and lifestyle.
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These reduce light reflections. Generally recommended for high-index wearers, all-day computer users, nighttime drivers bothered by glare, public speakers under bright lights, and those who've had LASIK surgery (they reduce halos and ghost images).
These darken when outdoors, replacing the need for prescription sunglasses.
Designed to enhance contrast and eliminate glare, they're especially good for fishing or driving, but aren't as effective at reading smartphone screens and cameras with viewfinders. When evaluating tints, look at a traffic light to ensure you can make out the colours; if you can't, they're too dark.
