Intraocular Lens Implants (IOLs) are small artificial lenses used to replace the natural eye lens during cataract surgery. They are made out of silicone, acrylic, or other plastic material. 

Over one million cataract surgeries are performed in the United States annually and have a 99% success rate. Intraocular lens implants are the only way to remove cataracts (the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy) and restore vision.^1,2

Cataracts are a normal part of aging, with over 50% of people over 80 living with cataracts. Other causes of cataracts include eye injury and complications from glaucoma surgery.³

Common cataract symptoms include:

• The eye’s lens appears cloudy
• Developing cloudy or blurry vision
• Colors look faded
• Double vision 
• Light sensitivity
• Seeing halos around lights
• Frequently needing to change eyeglasses or contact lens prescription

Types of IOLs and How They Work

Different types of intraocular lenses are used for cataract surgery, ranging from lenses that correct for a single distance to ones that correct for multiple distances. 

An ophthalmologist will work with you to determine what type of lens will give you the best vision outcome.

Monofocal Lens

Monofocal lenses are the most common type of IOL used in cataract surgery. It has one focal distance that can correct near, distance, or medium-range vision. 

Typically, people with monofocal lenses designed to enhance distance vision must also wear reading glasses during up-close work. The same is true for monofocal lenses designed to correct for near vision, with eyeglasses needed to accommodate distance vision. 

Toric Lens

Toric IOL lenses are designed to correct for a refractive error caused by astigmatism (uneven curve in your cornea or lens). 

The toric IOL lens also corrects for distance vision, giving you the best vision outcome possible. 

Multifocal Lens 

Multifocal lenses are popular for people who simultaneously need vision correction for both near and distant vision.

The multifocal IOL is designed with multiple zones set at different powers allowing for clear vision without eyeglasses.

Multifocal lenses take time to get used to, but they typically have positive vision outcomes. 

Accommodative IOL 

Accommodative lenses are designed to move or change shape within your eye, allowing eyes to focus at different distances. 

What are the Benefits of IOLs?

Replacing your natural lens with intraocular lenses is the only way to remove cataracts and improve your vision. Nine out of 10 people who get intraocular lenses report positive vision outcomes.

The most prominent benefits of IOLs include the following:

• Clear vision 
• Brighter colors
• Easier to drive at night
• Improved quality of life
• Quick and safe procedure 

Do IOLs Come With Risks?

While inserting intraocular lenses is one of the safest and most effective surgeries, it does come with a few risks including:

• Infection
• Swelling or bleeding
• Changes in eye pressure
• Retinal detachment
• Secondary cataracts

It is important to contact your eye doctor right away if you experience any complications after cataract surgery.

Intraocular Lens Procedure

Intraocular lenses are used to replace the natural lens during cataract surgery. Surgery is recommended for people with vision loss that affects their quality of life and everyday activities.  

The intraocular lens procedure includes first softening the natural lens with ultrasound and using suction to remove it. The natural lens is then replaced with an artificial clear intraocular lens.

The procedure only takes about 20 minutes. 

Preparation

Your eye doctor will give you detailed guidelines on preparing for cataract surgery. These instructions typically include the following:

• Obtaining measurements and tests on your eye about a week before surgery. 
• Using medicated eye drops to help prevent infection during surgery.
• You may be asked to stop taking certain medications.
• Avoiding eating or drinking the night before surgery.
• Cleaning your eyelids/lashes with baby shampoo the night before.
• Bringing someone to drive you home after the surgery.

The Surgery

Cataract surgery is a quick procedure that is usually painless. It typically takes place in an outpatient setting, allowing you to go home on the day of surgery. 

The entire surgery takes about one hour. You will be given medicated eye drops before the procedure to eliminate pain. You may also be given medication to help you remain calm and relaxed.

Cataract surgery steps include:

1. Use tiny tools to make a small incision into your natural lens
2. Break up the natural lens and remove it using suction
3. Replace the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens
4. Place an eye patch over your eye to promote healing

Post-Op Care

Immediately after surgery, you will be moved to post-op care to recover and rest before going home. 

Your eye may feel uncomfortable after surgery but will start to feel better after a few days. Complete healing takes about eight weeks.

After surgery, you will be encouraged to avoid touching your eye, bending over, or lifting heavy objects for a few weeks. You may be given medicated eye drops to prevent infection. 

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled before you leave the surgery site. 

Call your doctor right away if you notice the following symptoms after cataract surgery:

• Vision changes
• Eye pain
• Red eyes
• Floaters, including flashes of light, dark spots, or squiggly lines across your line of sight

How Much Do IOLs Cost?

The cost of IOLs depends on the type of lens used during cataract surgery. Toric and multifocal lenses are more expensive than the standard monofocal lens. 

The average cost of IOL lenses, not including the cost of surgery, include:

• Toric lenses, which cost about $1,500
• IOLs, which correct refractive errors (multifocal and accommodating lenses) and cost $2,500

Medicare and private insurance typically cover cataract surgery, including intraocular lenses. People without health insurance can expect to pay around $3,500 per eye, not including the cost of anesthesia. 

Factors that can increase the cost of IOLs and cataract surgery include:

• Geographical area
• Where the surgery is performed (outpatient vs. inpatient)
• Reputation and skill of the eye surgeon
• Type of IOL inserted
• Pre- and post-operative medications and doctor visits

Are IOLs Right For You?

Intraocular lenses are recommended for people with vision loss and discomfort due to cataracts. 

People with ocular comorbidities are not good candidates for certain multifocal IOLs. These comorbidities include:

• Vision loss from glaucoma
• Macular degeneration 
• Severe dry eye disease 
• Irregular astigmatism

Alternative Treatments

Having your natural lens replaced with an artificial intraocular lens is not an option for everyone.  

While surgery is the only way to remove cataracts, alternative treatments are available to improve vision loss and correct refractive errors. These include:

• A customized eyeglass prescription
• Contact lenses
• Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV light
• Quitting smoking 
• Staying on top of chronic health conditions 
• Yearly comprehensive eye exams from your eye doctor

Summary

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are artificial lenses that replace the eyes’ natural lenses during cataract surgery. Different types of IOLs are available depending on your vision needs including monofocal, multifocal, and toric lenses.  

There are multiple benefits of IOLs, like improved vision and quality of life. Risks from an IOL procedure include infection, swelling, bleeding, and secondary cataract. The IOL implant surgery only takes one hour and is typically painless.

What are the Best Glasses for Nearsightedness?

Correcting nearsightedness requires diverging lenses (concave lenses), which compensate for the overconvergence of the eyeball.

There are many diverging lens options for myopia management:

• Multifocal lenses. Current research shows that multifocal lenses (bifocals, trifocals, or progressives) can improve distance vision and slow myopia progression in children.⁴
• Single vision lenses. Recommended for those who want clear distance vision when doing certain activities, such as watching TV or driving at night.
• High-index lenses. These have reduced thickness and weight, making them more appealing and comfortable. They’re recommended for correcting nearsightedness greater than -3.00 diopters.
• Blue light filter lenses. These claim prevent the harmful blue light from computer screens from causing myopia, though there isn’t strong scientific evidence to support this. They also improve sleep, which blue light exposure often affects.

Multifocal lenses focus peripheral light in front of the retina, which enhances distance vision while preventing undesired eye growth. By comparison, a single-vision lens encourages the eyeball to keep growing in children since it focuses peripheral light on a point behind the retina.⁵

The best glasses for nearsightedness should also have an anti-reflective (AR) coating. According to Warby Parker, one of the largest eyewear retailers in the US, the coating prevents distracting reflections on the front and back surfaces of the lenses, thus improving visual acuity and comfort.⁶

What are the Best Contacts for Nearsightedness?

Eyeglasses are usually the first line of myopia correction because they’re more tolerated than contacts. Still, contact lenses remain effective in correcting myopia. 

The following are the best contact lens options for myopia:

• Diverging contact lenses. They also enable clear eyesight, just like eyeglasses, but they don’t limit peripheral vision like glasses.⁷ 
• Corrective contact lenses. They're rigid and are used to reshape (flatten) the bulging cornea to enhance the eye’s ability to refract light rays. The process is known as Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT).
• Multifocal contact lenses. Just like multifocal lenses for glasses, they can slow down the natural elongation of the eyeball and myopia (by 25%) in kids.⁸ Research shows soft multifocal contact lenses are the best for myopia.
• Transition contact lenses. They change color based on the lighting conditions (sunglass effect).

Whether you prefer glasses or contact lenses for your distorted vision, getting the correct lens prescription is essential. Get a regular eye checkup to ensure your myopia is not undercorrected. Some symptoms of undercorrection include frequent headaches, vertigo, and blurry vision.

Signs You Need Glasses for Nearsightedness

You may have nearsightedness if you experience the following symptoms:

• Headaches due to eye strain
• Fatigued or painful eyes
• Reduced visual acuity at night
• Constant squinting to see distant objects clearly 
• Blurry vision when looking at distant objects

Not all myopic people experience these signs the same way. Some types of myopia can affect both your near and distant vision. 

Where to Buy Glasses and Contacts for Nearsightedness

If you have nearsightedness, you can source your glasses or contacts from local retailers, online eyewear sellers, or your optician’s office. Online retailers are convenient if you already have a prescription and need to order custom lenses. 

However, some major online retailers have prescription scanner apps and Virtual Try-Ons. With these tools, you can generate your prescription details and order from the comfort of your home. You only need a computer, a smartphone, and somewhere to write. 

You can purchase your eyewear from the following retailers. These sellers also accept most major insurance:

1. Warby Parker

One of the major online and in-store retailers offering good deals on quality eyeglasses and contact lenses. Warby Parker offers additions such as blue-light-filtering, anti-fatigue, or progressive lenses. 

The company also sells daily, biweekly, and monthly contact lenses including:

• Acuvue
• Air Optix
• Dailies
• Biofinity 
• Bausch + Lomb

A distinguishing feature of Warby Parker is its 5-day try-on. You can order your favorite frames online and try them out for 5 days. There is also a Warby Parker app for iOS that offers an immersive online shopping experience. 

2. GlassesUSA.com

You can get stylish eyeglasses and contacts for women, men, and kids from GlassesUSA.com. 

The categories of contacts for nearsightedness include:

• Dailies
• Weeklies
• Monthlies
• Bifocals
• Multifocals
• Single vision lenses

GlassesUSA.com has a virtual try-on feature to help clients try out its custom frames in real time from anywhere. The company sells products from brands such as Ray-Ban and Michael Kors.

GlassesUSA also offers free shipping and a 100% money-back guarantee on all returns made within 14 days. 

3. FramesDirect.com

FramesDirect.com is a global eyewear retailer with authentic eyeglasses and contacts for nearsightedness. Like GlassessUSA.com, FramesDirect.com is known for its designer and name-brand eyeglass frames. 

Its contact lens categories include:

• Acuvue
• Biofinity
• Air Optix
• Dailies

You can choose from high-index lenses, progressive lenses, and transitions with a scratch-resistant coating to make your eyeglasses work better for you. Transition lenses darken or brighten based on lighting conditions.

4. Walmart

Walmart customers can purchase their prescription glasses and contacts in-store or online. The company works with brands like Ray-Ban, Nautica, Oakley, and DVX. 

Walmart sells single-vision and multifocal contact lenses from brands like:

• Acuvue
• Air Optix
• Dailies
• Biofinity
• Eureka

Walmart offers free standard shipping for prescription eyeglasses and contacts with a delivery timeline of 5 to 7 days, depending on the prescription verification process. 

5. LensCrafters

LensCrafters is an in-store and online eyewear seller with great deals on glasses and contacts for nearsightedness. The company works with large brands like Ray-Ban, Prada, Michael Kors, etc. 

It sells contact lens brands, including the following:

• Acuvue
• Dailies
• Biofinity
• Biotrue

LensCrafters offers a one-year extended warranty for its eyewear products. The company also offers free shipping and aftercare (cleaning and adjustments).

The list above is just a small representation of the country’s many online and in-store eyewear retailers. 

If you’re looking for prescription distance glasses or contact lenses, you’ll need a comprehensive eye exam at your doctor’s office or eyewear location to avoid under-correction.

Can LASIK Correct Nearsightedness?

Research shows that laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis or LASIK can safely correct mild to moderate nearsightedness.⁹ 

The surgery targets the corneal structure and modifies it to enable light to focus well on the retina. LASIK benefits adults (21 years and over) wanting to get rid of glasses or contacts.

The LASIK procedure involves the following:

• Eye exam to determine your eye health
• Preparation of the eye for surgery (mapping and sedation)
• Creation of a corneal flap to expose the underlying tissue
• Laser treatment to alter the curvature of the cornea
• Replacement of the flap to allow for healing

People with mild to moderate nearsightedness tend to achieve better results after LASIK than those with severe nearsightedness. 

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, surgical correction of high myopia poses a risk of post-LASIK ectasia and decreased quality of vision.¹⁰

What is Nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a refractive error where nearby objects appear clear but distant objects are blurry. Myopia occurs due to an elongated eyeball (front to back) or an overly curved cornea.

The cornea is the clear front part of the eye. If the cornea is too curved, the light entering the eye will not focus correctly on the retina (the light-sensitive part of the eye).

Nearsightedness is categorized into three different levels:

1. Low myopia. -3.00 diopters or less. 
2. Moderate myopia. Between -3.25 to -6.00 diopters.
3. Severe myopia. Above -6.00 diopters. 

Prevalence and Causes

Myopia is common in East and South East Asia, affecting about 80 to 90% of the population.¹ In the U.S., the condition affects about 30% of the population. 

Although the prevalence varies from country to country, recent research estimates that more than half the world’s population will have the condition by 2050.² 

The exact cause of nearsightedness is unknown, but scientists associate the condition with the following:

• Genetics
• Aging
• Lifestyle (e.g., digital eye strain from using a computer or phone screen)³
• Health issues, such as diabetes and cataracts

Treatment

Wearing glasses or contacts is the most common form of myopia management. These are concave-shaped corrective lenses, also known as “minus power lenses” (or “minus lenses”). 

Concave means thin at the center and thicker at the edges. This shape counteracts the increased curve of your cornea or the increased length of the eyeball. It enables the lens to produce an image closer to the eye when looking at a distant object.

However, some people prefer corrective surgery to restore their visual clarity.

Summary

• Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a refractive error where nearby objects appear clear but distant objects are blurry. 
• Myopia affects 30% of people in the United States, and predictions indicate a 50% and above global prevalence by 2050.
• The exact cause of nearsightedness is unknown, but scientists associate the condition with aging, genetics, lifestyle, and health problems.
• The best remedies for nearsightedness are eyeglasses and contact lenses. However, some people prefer refractive surgery.
• The best glasses and contacts for nearsightedness are multifocal lenses, which can be obtained from online and in-store eyewear retailers.

Key Takeaways

• Varilux® progressive lenses are special eyeglass lenses for correcting presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). 
• Varilux lenses come in 3 sub-brands: Varilux X, Varilux Comfort Max, and Varilux W3+.
• They enable a seamless transition from one prescription strength to another, enabling clear vision at any distance.
• Varilux lenses eliminate the distracting middle line and visual distortions associated with bifocals.
• Although Varilux costs more than other brands, your vision insurance may cover some costs.

What are Varilux® Progressive Lenses?

Varilux® progressive lenses are special eyeglass lenses for correcting presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).¹ 

A presbyopic person may need to hold reading material further away to see clearly. They may also experience blurred vision or eye strain at normal reading distance. These symptoms may worsen in low-light conditions.

Varilux lenses are designed to:

• Provide sharp vision at all distances 
• Provide clear vision in dimly lit environments
• Eliminate off-balance feelings

The lenses accomplish this by transitioning seamlessly from one prescription strength to the next.

According to the manufacturer, Essilor International, Varilux is the #1 progressive lens recommended by optometrists and opticians.² Current designs accommodate enhancements such as transitions, Crizal anti-glare coatings, and UV protection to help you achieve the most natural vision possible.

Types of Varilux Lenses

Varilux lenses come in three distinct designs made using the same patented technology.³

Varilux® X Series™  

The Varilux X series is the most advanced progressive lens. It uses Xtend® technology to provide smooth transitions and sharp vision at different focal strengths and distances. It also features Nanoptix™ Technology which helps eliminate the “off-balance” feeling common with progressive lenses.

Varilux Comfort Max

Varilux Comfort Max provides clear vision at all distances and in dimly lit places. It features Flex Optim™ Technology which expands the useful vision zone by up to 46%, enabling optimized vision from multiple angles (20/Happy vision).⁴ 

The 20/Happy vision approach focuses on more than just normal resolution by considering additional factors such as contrast, binocularity, and distortion to provide a clearer and more enjoyable visual experience.

Varilux® Physio® W3+

Varilux Physio W3+ offers similar benefits to Varilux Comfort Max with an added advantage of SynchronEyes™ technology. 

According to Essilor experts, synchronEyes™ enables your eyes to function together more effectively by promoting a smooth transition between near and far vision.

Pros and Cons of Varilux Lenses

Like other lens types, Varilux lenses also have their benefits and downsides.

Pros

• No visible line on the lens
• Clear vision, regardless of distance, frame size, or shape
• High-resolution vision in all lighting conditions
• Comfortable and convenient in all tasks
• Safe when doing tasks like driving

Cons

• Some people take time to adjust to different lens powers
• More expensive than standard progressives
• Slight amount of peripheral distortion (swim effect)

The mild side effects should diminish quickly as your eyes adapt. Experts recommend wearing your glasses all day to help your eyes adapt. 

If your eyes still feel uncomfortable after two to three weeks, consult your eye doctor.

How Do Varilux Lenses Work?

Users commonly report peripheral distortions with ordinary progressive lenses. The distortions result from changes in curvature across the lens surface. Since its inception in 1959 by engineer Bernard Maitenaz, Varilux technology has expanded to accommodate the needs of every presbyope. 

Today, only Varilux progressive lenses enable constant clear vision by adjusting prescription based on distance and lighting conditions. They are designed using Wavefront Advanced Vision Enhancement (WAVE) Technology 2™.⁵ 

This technology enables eyeglass designers to do the following:

• Identify distortions as light passes through the lens 
• Examine pupil size changes as the eye looks at different distances 
• Customize each lens based on individual eye prescription and behavior 

Who Benefits From Varilux Lenses?

Varilux includes multiple prescriptions in a single lens, perfect for far, intermediate, and near vision. They’re especially perfect for people with presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).

Presbyopia affects people in their mid-40s and may worsen up until age 65. This is because aging makes the crystalline lens lose flexibility.⁶ The rigidity of the lens affects how light is focused on the retina, resulting in poor near vision, especially in low-light conditions.

Presbyopic individuals can use single-vision reading glasses to enhance their vision. However, if they also have a problem with distance vision, Varilux lenses offer the best solution for multi-distance vision.

Varilux vs. Bifocal Lenses: Which is Right for You?

Varilux lenses stand out from bifocals and ordinary progressives because they meet the highest standards of natural vision. They enable you to drive and perform computer work and other close activities with a single pair of glasses.

Although bifocals can effectively correct near and distant vision, their limitations cannot be overlooked—they cannot focus clearly on mid-distanced objects and have a distracting middle line separating the two focal strengths.⁷ 

The line forces users to constantly adjust their head position to focus their eyes on the correct lens. In many cases, users experience blurry vision and a feeling of imbalance.

On the contrary, Varilux lenses have no distracting line. The lens is designed with different technologies and eliminates all the disadvantages of bifocals, offering users a seamless transition between distances and lighting conditions. You can use your eyes naturally without needing to tilt your head. 

Varilux Lenses Costs and Insurance

The cost of Varilux lenses depends on the following:

• The type of lens; the X series costs the most
• Your prescription
• The brand and size of frame you choose
• Your eyeglass provider

The average cost of Varilux is between $129 to more than $400 for the lens alone. A prescription may cost you about $60 to $125 without insurance. 

If you prefer coating to reduce glare and prevent harmful blue light, it may cost you an additional $50 and $100. You may also incur shipping fees if you purchase online.

Insurance 

Your eye insurance should cover the cost of your eye exam and prescription eyeglasses. However, there may be limitations based on your insurance policy. 

For example, only comprehensive coverage may include enhancements such as anti-glare coating and photochromic technology on your lenses.

If you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA), the funds can cover expenses excluded from your vision insurance.⁸ Talk to your eye doctor and insurance company to get the exact cost of your Varilux prescription.

Where to Buy Varilux Lenses

Most local eye care practitioners can install Varilux lenses into any frames you choose. They can also enhance your lens with Crizal anti-glare coating and UV-resistant treatment. 

Consult your eye doctor first to understand the full scope of your options. They will examine your vision and recommend the perfect Varilux lenses.

What is Neurolens®?

Neurolens uses prescription contoured prism lenses to correct eye misalignment typically caused by digital eye strain, prolonged up-close work, and reading.

Trigeminal dysphoria occurs due to eye misalignments, causing discomfort like eye strain and neck and head pain. These eye misalignments are also responsible for causing digital eye strain.

Eye doctors can use the Neurolens Measurement Device, Gen2 (NMD2), to measure and identify eye misalignment and create customized Neurolenses to relieve digital eye strain symptoms. 

Are Neurolens Glasses Right For You?

Neurolens glasses may be right for you if you suffer from chronic headaches, eye strain, neck pain, and other painful symptoms associated with prolonged computer and up-close work. 

The contoured prism lenses can realign your eyes, providing significant symptom relief and improved quality of life. 

Contact your eye doctor to see if they offer Neurolens. Not all ophthalmologists offer Neurolens because there is an extra cost for the eye doctor to carry the measurement device and the entire Neurolens vision system. 

Initial research showed that over 81% of people who wore Neurolenses responded positively to treatment. The Neurolens company claims that over 90% of patients respond positively to wearing Neurolenses.⁵

Who is a Candidate for Neurolens?

People with chronic digital eye strain symptoms and eye misalignment are good candidates for Neurolens. About 65% of Americans report symptoms of digital eye strain.² 

Common symptoms include:

• Chronic headaches
• Neck stiffness
• Eye strain
• Double vision 
• Dry eye sensation
• Eye fatigue
• Motion sickness
• Shoulder pain
• Light sensitivity 

Digital eye strain is an umbrella term for various eye problems that stem from prolonged computer work, intense up-close work, and reading. 

Working long hours at a computer or spending long periods in front of digital devices can result in painful symptoms. If you experience symptoms of eye misalignment, you may be a good fit for Neurolens.

How Does Neurolens Work?

Neurolens is the only eyewear company that uses contoured prism lenses. Typical eyeglass lenses are fitted with a standard prism, which only corrects eye misalignment at a single distance. 

Contoured prism lenses provide eye alignment at all distances, including:

• Central vision 
• Peripheral vision 
• Near vision
• Distance vision 

Multiple distance correction eliminates overstimulation of the trigeminal nerve ( trigeminal dysphoria), providing symptom relief. 

The visual system used to prescribe Neurolens is as follows:

1. Identify symptoms through a questionnaire.
2. An eye doctor takes eye misalignment measurements using the Neurolens Measuring Device.
3. Contoured prism lenses are prescribed based on specific measurements.

Pros and Cons of Neurolens

The primary benefit of Neurolens is it provides dramatic relief for people experiencing chronic symptoms from eye strain. There are no long-term side effects or complications reported with wearing Neurolenses.

The pros and cons of Neurolenses are outlined below. 

Pros

• Relief from headaches, neck pain, eye strain, and dry eyes
• Customized contoured prism prescription 
• Improved eye alignment
• Less pressure on the trigeminal nerve
• Better eye health despite prolonged use of digital devices

Cons

The biggest obstacle for people who want to use Neurolenses is the cost. 

• Neurolenses are expensive
• Not covered by insurance 

How Much Does Neurolens Cost? 

Neurolenses are more expensive than typical eyeglasses.

They start at $650 for a single-vision pair and increase to $850 for multi-distance progressive lenses. When you include the cost of frames and other add-ons, a pair of Neurolenses can cost over $1,000.⁴

However, they offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied with your pair of Neurolenses.

While Neurolens is not covered by insurance, you can use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA) to help offset the cost.

Alternative Options

Digital eye strain is a common complaint among Americans today. However, purchasing customized lenses may not be an option for all. 

There are alternative options for treating digital eye strain and symptoms associated with eye misalignment. These include:

• Vision therapy, which is a structured program of visual exercises to improve visual ability
• Adjusting your computer screen to be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level
• Using a document holder beside your monitor for reference materials
• Adjusting your lighting to avoid glare
• Good seating; your feet should be flat on the floor and arms supported while typing
• Looking away for 20 seconds to refocus your eyes after 20 minutes of computer viewing
• Blinking frequently to prevent dry eye symptoms

Summary

Neurolens is the first eyewear lens to include contour prism proven to correct eye misalignment and reduce symptoms of digital eye strain, including chronic headaches, neck and shoulder pain, eye strain, and dry eyes. 

Neurolenses are expensive and not covered by insurance. 

If you experience frequent vision discomfort from working at a computer or prolonged digital device usage, check with your ophthalmologist to see if you are a good candidate for Neurolens.

About Pair Eyewear

Pair Eyewear is a company that offers an innovative trend—people can customize their glasses and sunglasses. 

Pair Eyewear aims to make glasses an extension of one's personality by allowing people to change the color and style of their eyeglass frames easily. 

They produce their glasses in-house to reduce costs to the consumer. Pair Eyewear is available both with and without a prescription. 

Pair Eyewear partners with EYElliance, which provides glasses to children in need. For every pair of eyewear purchased, a child in the developing world will receive free eyeglasses.

Pros of Pair Eyewear

Pair Eyewear is an innovative eyewear company that offers a unique product to customers that want to match their eyewear to their mood and personality.

The benefits of Pair Eyewear include functionality, cost, and style.

Customization 

The selling point of Pair Eyewear is the ability to customize and switch out the Top Frames with different styles to match your personality. 

Great for Kids 

The variety of switchable frames makes wearing glasses fun for kids, especially those that are hesitant to get eyeglasses. Their licensing agreements with popular brands make wearing glasses an excellent experience.

Affordability

The $60 base frame and low cost of Top Frames make for an affordable pair of basic eyeglasses.

Cons of Pair Eyewear

The cons of Pair Eyewear include slower-than-average customer service, lack of frame variation, and expensive upgrades.

Slow Customer Service

Many people have complained about slow shipping and poor customer service. Reviews suggest that the company could be faster in responding and communication could be better.

Shipping has also been reported to be slow and inconsistent.

Lack of Base Frame Variability

While the base frame is a cool element, it does not come in various styles. Many people would like a more comprehensive selection of frame sizes and styles.

Expensive Upgrades 

While the base and top frames are affordable, adding upgrades such as progressive lenses or blue-light blocking is more expensive than other eyeglass companies.

Who is Pair Eyewear For? 

Pair Eyewear is for adults and children that want to change the color and style of their eyeglass frame. 

The company uses a magnetic technology called Top Frame to offer interchangeable frames that match a mood or outfit. 

Pair Eyewear has obtained licensing agreements with many high-profile companies to offer famous logos and characters, including:

• Marvel 
• Major League Baseball
• Harry Potter
• DC Comics
• Sesame Street

Types of Glasses Pair Offers

Pair Eyewear offers a variety of prescription and non-prescription lenses and sunglasses. 

You can customize Pair Eyewear lenses with add-ons, including:

• Progressive lenses
• Blue light filtering
• Sun lenses
• Light transition lenses
• Readers

Top Frames come in a variety of styles and collections, including:

• Animal prints
• Holidays (Easter, St. Patrick's day, etc.)
• Sparkle
• Classic colors and designs
• Teams sports colors
• Special occasion 

Pair Eyewear Ordering Process

Pair Eyewear offers a simple ordering process that includes the following steps:

1. Pick your base frame style and color (they can be virtually tried on)
2. Choose multiple Top Frames that fit your style and personality
3. Choose your lens type (blue light, progressive, light transition)
4. Have your prescription on hand
5. Add optional accessories (wall hanger, case, cleaning kit, ear hooks)
6. Checkout (free shipping and returns are included)

How Much Do Glasses From Pair Cost?

Pair Eyewear glasses and sunglasses are relatively affordable depending on the number of Top Frames ordered, lens customizations, and if you have a prescription. 

Base frames are $60, and Top Frames range from $25 to $30, depending on style.

Additional customizations will raise the price, including:

• Progressive lenses are an additional $199
• Blue-Light Filtering is an additional $49
• Premium Plus (lightweight) is an additional $59
• Black Sun Top is an additional $30
• Accessories start at $15 

A Pair Eyewear order can quickly become expensive if you choose multiple additional features. 

Insurance Coverage

Pair Eyewear is not covered by vision insurance. However, you can use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (FSA) to purchase glasses. 

FSA and HSA can’t be used for non-prescription sunglass lenses. 

You can also submit your receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement. 

Discounts

Pair Eyewear offers several sales, promotions, and discounts throughout the year. 

Common discounts include:

• Coupon codes
• Military discounts
• Refer a Friend 
• Rewards Member program

Return Policy, Warranty, and Refunds

Pair Eyewear offers a comprehensive return policy on all orders.

Return Policy and Refunds

Products can be returned up to 30 days after delivery through a simple link on their website.

A return shipping label and a refund to the original form of payment are provided.

Exchanges are also accepted. The company will give you credit as a gift card. You might need to pay the difference if a discount code was used during the original purchase.

Warranty

Pair Eyewear products come with a 30-day warranty from when they are delivered. Customers can either get an exchange or a full refund. 

An additional year warranty can be purchased for $40 and covers the cost of the base frames in the event of breakage or scratches. 

Pair Eyewear vs. Competitors 

Pair Eyewear is the only brand to offer interchangeable frames. While this concept is unique, it might only be for some people.

Several emerging online eyewear companies offer a new way to purchase eyeglasses and sunglasses.  

Warby Parker

Warby Parker offers a home try-on service with various frame styles and shapes. 

The customer chooses five pairs of glasses for free shipping to your home. You can select the ones that work for you and send the rest back.

Glasses USA

Glasses USA is a one-stop shop that allows you to browse top eyewear brands from the comfort of your home. 

Glasses USA accepts eye insurance. They also have technology that can scan your eyeglass prescription directly from your current glasses, making it a seamless and hassle-free ordering process.

EyeBuyDirect

EyeBuyDirect cuts out the middleman and allows you to buy your favorite eyewear brands online for a lower cost.

The virtual try-on technology lets you see what frame styles you like best. Many sales and promotions are available, including buy-one-get-one-free discounts. 

Company	Virtual Try On	Takes Insurance	Warranty Length
Pair Eyewear	YES	NO	30 days
Warby Parker	NO	YES	6 months
GlassesUSA	YES	YES	1-year
EyeByeDirect	YES	NO	14-day free returns

Summary 

Pair Eyewear is an innovative eyewear company that allows children and adults to interchange eyeglass frames using magnetic technology called Top Frame. 

The ordering process includes choosing a base frame and a variety of Top Frames that come in various colors and themes. Additional add-ons, including progressive lenses and blue-light functionality, are available.

While the base frame and Top Frames cost are relatively inexpensive, once you add on upgrades and accessories, the purchase price can become more than its competitors.