Think Twice Before Purchasing Eyeglasses Online

When seven-year-old Julia was first examined by her Optometrist four years ago, she was diagnosed with amblyopia in her right eye. Amblyopia is a common condition in children that occurs when one eye is weaker than the other, and prevents the proper stimulation in the brain needed to develop clear vision.

If not treated early enough in childhood, it can lead to permanently blurred vision in the affected eye, inability to see in 3D, and difficulties in school.  Julia’s Optometrist prescribed glasses for her and instructed that she patch the better eye each day to strengthen the eye with amblyopia.  Julia followed these instructions carefully and attended many follow-up visits with her Optometrist to monitor her progress and ensure that improvement was being made.   Eventually, she improved from a poor 20/80 vision to almost 20/20 (perfect vision) in the weaker eye. 



Last year, Julia’s mother brought her to the Optometrist for an unscheduled appointment to check the accuracy of the glasses that she had just bought for Julia online.  She purchased two pairs on the internet for $50. After examining the glasses, Julia’s Optometrist discovered that the glasses were improperly manufactured and advised her mother not to allow Julia to wear either pair because they were a serious threat to her vision. The glasses were so far off from the correct prescription that Julia’s amblyopia was at risk of returning in the right eye. To make matters worse, the lenses of both eyes were not positioned correctly in front of her eyes.  

Julia’s Optometrist re-made the glasses with the correct prescription and took accurate measurements to ensure that the lenses were properly positioned in the frame.  He then adjusted the glasses so that they fit comfortably on her face and didn’t hurt her behind the ears.  The glasses were also re-made with polycarbonate lenses, a quality material that meets safety standards for breakage resistance.  


When glasses are purchased over the Internet, there is a significant risk that the glasses will not be made accurately or made according to the specified prescription. A recent study that showed nearly half of all glasses (44.8%) ordered online either had the incorrect prescription or did not meet physical parameters to provide enough protection to the wearer.  The lenses or frames may also not be suitable for the prescription or may not meet specific visual requirements. 


When purchasing frames and lenses, proper measurements should always be taken.  Your Optometrist should also inspect all frames and lenses at the time of dispensing so that they are custom fit for each person and the lenses have been evaluated for accuracy.  Only your Optometrist has the expertise to ensure that your eyewear is properly made and correct for your specific needs.  


Story courtesy of: The Ontario Association of Optometrists

If you do have any questions or concerns please contact Dr. Phil at Milton Optometry.