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Steve wrote:
Hello, I have a question about prescription sunglasses that many optometrists have been unable to clearly answer. I am hoping for your insight on the matter. I have fairly high astigmatism of -5.25 on both eyes and sphere of +3.25. Would that sort of prescription be suited for aviator type sunglasses? Also, can mirror coatings be applied to prescription sunglasses? I appreciate your time and response. Steve
Dr Joan Hansen's response:
Steve, Your lenses are thicker in one part of the lens than another. This cause the edges to become very thick in the deep aviator frame shape, and they may not stay in the frame well. Your prescription would be best in a smaller frame with rounded corners. In my experience, mirror coatings are only applied to glass lenses, and these are not used very much any more as they are not as safe an option to wear.
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On-going Problems with Progressive Lenses
Kevin wrote:
Dear doctor, I have new progessive glasses and when I look down midway to bottom while my head turns from left to right , the side I am looking to gets higher ( kind of curved up ) while the side my head is turning away from appears to drop ( curve down ) . Then visa versa when I rotate my head back. It is like teeter tottering, but more than that … maybe like as if there was a giant ball under everything I am looking at and that the ball moves wherever my head turns. I have top of the line lenses. Had the pupils centered and everything my doc could think of to do . He has never come across this problem before. I have given it 7 months now to try to adjust , but it just isn't happening. It is an awful visual experience. I really want the convenience of progressives and wonder if you have encountered this and if you have any ideas for how to make these glasses work for me? Kevin
Dr Joan Hansen's response:
Kevin, In order to eliminate the lines of a traditional lined bifocal or trifocal, Progressive Addition Lenses (PAL) gradually change the curves on the lens surface. This does cause some distortions in the periphery of the lens. It sounds like you are very sensitive to these distortions, and your best option may be a lined trifocal. You might try reading the explanation on the website allaboutvision at www.allaboutvision.com/lenses/progressives.htm. Particularly look at the section on “advantages of PALs” and “Adapting to your PALs”. You might also ask your eyeglass provider to adjust your glasses differently – panning them in and wrapping them, as this sometimes makes the distortions less noticeable.
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Contacts for Young People
Manaal wrote:
Hi there! I'm 12 years old, turning 13 this year (2012) and I have been asking my parents for contact lenses, since glasses are bothering me during sports and other physical activities. Is 13 a suitable age for contact lenses? Thanks, Manaal
Dr Joan Hansen's response:
Manaal, I have fit many young people with contact lenses before they are 12. They are a great option for many sports. When possible I try to use a lens that is a single use lens – it is thrown away every night after wear, and a fresh one used the next time lenses are worn. You will need to have this discussion with your parents and your Optometrist though, to determine if Contact lenses are suitable for you.
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