Solving Visual Distortions and Reflections in New Glasses: A Comprehensive Guide

Glasses are a common solution for correcting vision, but sometimes they can introduce new issues such as peripheral distortion and reflections. If you notice these problems after getting new glasses, you are not alone. Here's a step-by-step guide to understanding and resolving these issues.

Understanding Peripheral Distortion

If you have recently obtained new glasses and are experiencing unusual peripheral distortions, there could be several reasons for this phenomenon.

Lens Type

One of the most common reasons for peripheral distortion is a change in the lens type. For instance, if you started using progressive lenses or a stronger prescription, this could result in a wider field of vision and more peripheral distortion. Progressive lenses, with their designed vision zones, are particularly prone to causing this issue.

Lens Shape and Design

The shape and curvature of the lenses can significantly impact your peripheral vision. Larger lenses or those with a different curvature than your previous ones may cause this effect. A proper fit is crucial, and any mismatch can lead to visual distortions, especially at the edges of the lenses.

Fitting Issues

Even if your glasses fit well on your face, the optical center of the lenses may not align with your pupils. This misalignment can result in visual distortions at the edges. A properly fitted pair of glasses should align the lenses’ optical center with your pupils, ensuring a clear and distortion-free vision.

Lens Material

The material of the lenses can also play a role. Different materials have varying refractive qualities, which might affect how you perceive objects at the edges of your vision. If you have recently changed prescriptions or lens types, it might take some time for your brain to adjust to the new visual experience.

Addressing Reflected Images

If you are seeing reflections from the back inside surface of your lenses, there are several common causes. These reflections can often be confusing and are a common issue when switching to different types of lenses or frames.

Lens Curvature and Prescription Changes

If you are nearsighted (myopic) and have recently changed to a higher index thinner lens material, the flatter inside curve of these lenses can cause increased reflections. Similarly, if the frame you have now is larger than your previous frame, the increased lens area might contribute to this issue.

Remedies for Reflections and Distortions

To address these problems, consider the following remedies:

Anti-Reflective Coating

An effective way to reduce or eliminate reflections is to have an anti-reflective coating applied to the back side (and preferably both sides) of your lenses. This treatment should be applied before the lenses are edged for the frame, necessitating new lenses. This coating will greatly enhance the visual experience by reducing the glare and reflection.

Re-Adjusting the Frame

Another option is to re-adjust the frame to include more face-form or wrap. This restructuring of the frame can alter the path of the reflections, making them less noticeable. This adjustment is usually done by an optician and can significantly improve your visual comfort.

Choosing the Right Lens Material

Consider returning to a lower refractive index lens material if your current lenses have a higher index. Different refractive indices can contribute to more reflections and distortions, and changing the material can help mitigate these issues.

Seek Professional Help

If these issues persist or cause discomfort, it is best to consult with your optician or eye care professional. They can check the fit and alignment of your glasses and make any necessary adjustments. Returning to the place of purchase and explaining your problem to the optician is often the best course of action, as they have all the necessary details and can assist you in getting the perfect pair of glasses.

By following these steps and consulting with a professional, you can resolve any visual distortions and reflections in your new glasses, ensuring a comfortable and clear visual experience.