Prescription Eyeglasses: How Are They Made?

After performing a series of tests, your eye doctor will be able to tell if you must wear corrective lenses. If you need prescription eyewear, expect your optometrist to ask you to choose the style of your new eyeglasses. Most of today’s lenses are plastic, but you can still get ones in glass. Meanwhile, frames are usually plastic or metal. 

Keep reading to discover how prescription eyeglasses are made. 

How Are Prescription Lenses Made? 

Lens blanks usually come from advanced laboratories. They are prefabricated pieces of polycarbonate used to create prescription lenses. Specialized machines will be used to cut and shape the lenses to fit your selected frame and unique prescription. 

Many corrective lenses come with coatings for better clarity, durability and scratch resistance. You can also get lenses with UV protection and anti-reflective coatings. Experts apply them using a vacuum deposition process that involves heating the lens and placing a thin layer of coating material. 

Your eye care provider might ask if you wish to have your glasses tinted for extra protection against the sun. A tint can be added to your lenses by incorporating colorants into the material or applying tinted coatings. 

If you’re unsure which frame to choose or features to add to your eyeglasses, Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is here to help. You can always rely on us for high-quality glasses and contact lenses. We also specialize in sports vision training and pre- and post-operative care for LASIK. 

What Comes After? 

When your lenses are ready, they will be inserted into the frame. Necessary adjustments will be made to ensure the lenses sit in front of the eye. This process can also involve adjusting temple arms, nose pads and other frame components for good fit and comfortable wear. 

Your optometrist will notify you when your new eyeglasses are ready for pickup. They will check if your glasses fit you properly during your visit. Your eye doctor will also see that the center point of the lens aligns with your pupil. 

Need new eyeglasses? Turn to Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry for your eye care needs. We specialize in vision correction, cataract treatment and more. Call us at (703) 573-1200 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to assisting patients in Falls Church, VA, and nearby areas.