Glasses and Contacts Are Different Prescriptions
Glasses sit in front of the eyes. Contact lenses sit directly on the eyes. Because of that difference, a contact lens prescription includes fitting details that are not usually part of a glasses prescription.
Contact lenses are prescription medical devices and should be dispensed according to a valid contact lens prescription.
What a Contact Lens Prescription Includes
A contact lens prescription typically identifies the lens brand or material and the parameters needed for each eye. Depending on the lens, those details may include power, base curve, diameter, cylinder, axis, add power, or color.
The prescription should also identify the patient, prescriber, and expiration date.
A Seller Should Not Convert It
Honest Lenses should not convert a glasses prescription into a contact lens prescription. That decision belongs with your eye care professional, who can evaluate fit, vision, and eye health.
If you want to wear contact lenses, ask your eye care provider for a contact lens prescription after any required fitting.
What to Do If You Only Have a Glasses Prescription
- Contact your eye care professional.
- Ask whether you need a contact lens fitting.
- Request a copy of your current contact lens prescription if one exists.
- Use the exact brand and parameters listed on that prescription.
FAQ
Why are glasses and contact lens prescriptions different?
Contact lenses sit on the eye and require fitting information, including the prescribed lens brand or material and parameters. Glasses prescriptions do not usually include those contact lens details.
Can Honest Lenses convert my glasses prescription?
No. Honest Lenses should not convert a glasses prescription into a contact lens prescription. Ask your eye care professional for a valid contact lens prescription.
What if I know my contact lens power from an old box?
An old box is not a substitute for a current valid contact lens prescription. The order still needs to match a valid prescription for the wearer.
Do I need a contact lens fitting?
Your eye care professional can tell you whether a fitting or updated evaluation is needed before issuing a contact lens prescription.
Written for Honest Lenses by Dr. Paul Driggers, OD.
This guide is general educational information for contact lens customers. It is not a medical exam, diagnosis, or treatment plan.