Is It A Good Idea To Buy Glasses Online? At first glance it might appear that buying eyeglasses online is as straightforward as buying a washing machine or other product that we regularly get like this. In fact there are a number of issues you need to consider before buying eyeglasses online. Buying eyeglasses from an optician should ensure you get what you need. In an ideal world your optician takes all the necessary measurements, and helps you with all the choices you are faced with. Apart from suitable frames you need to select lens type and thickness plus coatings and tints. Once your eyeglasses are made your optician adjusts them as necessary to ensure they are comfortable. However in the real world it is in the optician’s interest to sell you as many upgrades as possible and the outcome can be a shock to your wallet. Before you can buy eyeglasses online you should have a recent prescription. {The online store will explain how to read the prescription and enter the details but if you have problems you can usually fax or email a copy.} You will also need your PD measurement which is the distance between your pupils in millimeters. This is not usually included in a prescription but if you are having a new eye test done you can ask for it. If necessary you can get a friend to measure it for you (most sites give instructions) as it is virtually impossible to do it yourself. Supplying the correct information will ensure that the glasses supplied are the same as you would get anywhere else. Buying online has the following advantages: •
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Large savings can be made - This is the major factor as savings of up to 70% can be made compared to buying in a bricks and mortar store. More Choice - There will be many more frames to choose from. No Pressure - You have the opportunity to research the options and decide what you actually need.
Disadvantages of buying eyeglasses online: •
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Cannot physically try the frames prior to purchase - You have to decide for yourself whether the frames are suitable for you and will fit ok. The best way to proceed is to base your choice on your existing frames and get something fairly close. These will have 3 numbers stamped on them giving their size in millimeters (they give the width if the lens, the bridge size and the temple length). In addition some online stores have a facility to upload a picture of yourself then superimpose the frames. If adjustment is needed there is no-one to help. - If the glasses supplied are not as comfortable as you would wish then adjustment will be required. Online stores will offer advice but if an adjustment is necessary you will either have to do it yourself or seek help from a local optical store (who will likely charge a small fee).