Many people expect eyeglasses to be a miraculous, instantaneous fix for their vision problems. They imagine that their eyesight will be absolutely perfect once they slide the frames over their ears. And while that’s sometimes true, it’s important to keep in mind that our eyes often need a little time to adjust to a new prescription, lens type, or lens coating. How long does it take to get used to new glasses?
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to New Glasses?
The answer to this question depends on your unique eyes, the adjustment in your prescription, and any other changes (lens type, lens coating, frame style, etc.). Typically, if your glasses are quite similar to your old pair, you’ll quickly feel comfortable with them. However, if the changes are relatively significant, you may experience a longer adjustment period. Either way, your eyes should adapt within a few days.
Although the adjustment period may be uncomfortable, rest assured that it’s completely normal and shouldn’t last too long. But if you have any questions or concerns about your new glasses, don’t hesitate to contact your optometrist.
What Side Effects Might I Experience?
Getting used to something new takes time, so don’t be surprised if your eyes feel a little tired or sore at first. As your eyes get used to the new frames and lenses, you may experience mild and temporary side effects like the following:
- Eye strain
- Eye fatigue
- Eye soreness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Vision distortion
- Lack of depth perception
- Fishbowl effect (feeling like the edges of your vision are bent)
Vision issues may seem like strange side effects since glasses are intended to correct your vision, but it’s important to remember that your brain and eyes may have been overcompensating for poor vision. As your brain adjusts and learns to process images differently, objects may appear warped, bent, or out of focus. In addition, you may struggle with depth perception. These issues are normal and temporary.
What Changes Can Cause a Longer Adjustment Period?
Wondering if your new glasses are likely to cause temporary issues? Changes like the following are more likely to require an adjustment period:
- Wearing a much stronger prescription
- Wearing a new type of lenses, such as progressive lenses or bifocals
- Wearing glasses for the first time
You might find yourself touching or adjusting your glasses more than usual or wishing that you could take them off. This is normal, but it’s important to give your glasses time. Within a few days, you’ll be used to the changes.
Do I Need to Take Any Action in the Meantime?
Nope! Just wait it out.
Keep in mind that avoiding your new glasses won’t help. Wear your new glasses as much as possible to speed up the adjustment process. If you find this difficult at first, try to gradually increase the amount of time you wear your glasses each day. Avoid wearing your old glasses, as this can confuse your eyes. Hide them if you find yourself tempted!
In addition, you may need to avoid certain activities (driving, operating machinery, etc.) for a few days to ensure your safety.
Contact your eye doctor if the issues last more than a few days.
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Are you looking to purchase new glasses? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Heffington’s today. Since 1975, the Heffington family has been assisting the Springfield community with top-quality eye care and affordable eyeglasses and contacts. One of the unique features of our family-owned business is that we manufacture lenses at our own laboratory, giving us total control over the service and pricing, and we’re happy to pass our savings on to you.
To learn more about our products and services, please get in touch with us online, send an email to [email protected], or give us a call at 417-869-3937 (Optiland location) or 417-882-3937 (House of Vision location). We look forward to hearing from you and helping you explore glasses vs. contacts.