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Why Should I Buy Glasses from My Optometrist?

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An adult tries on new frames at their optometrist's clinic.

When it’s time for a new pair of glasses, deciding where to buy them can feel overwhelming. With countless online retailers promising low prices and quick delivery, it might seem like an obvious choice.

But another option is often overlooked—buying your glasses directly from your eye doctor. Just a few of the reasons to buy your glasses from your optometrist include:

  • Accurate prescriptions
  • Quality materials
  • Custom fit and personalized care
  • Ongoing support and maintenance
  • Convenient and simple

Plus, your prescription is only valid for a limited time in Canada. You’ll eventually need an updated prescription by getting an eye exam, another area where your eye doctor can provide personalized care that makes you feel valued.

How Long Are Glasses Prescriptions Good For?  

Before you get new glasses, it’s important to know how long your prescription is valid. Typically, glasses prescriptions in Canada are valid for a maximum of 2 years, though this can vary based on the provincial guidelines and your eye health.  

Regular eye exams are critical because vision can change gradually over time. If you notice symptoms like blurry vision, headaches, or eye strain, it might be time to schedule an appointment with your optometrist—even if your prescription hasn’t yet expired.

Keeping your prescription up-to-date ensures you wear the correct lenses to support your vision and overall eye health.  

What Are Prescription Glasses?  

Prescription glasses are more than just fashion accessories—they’re a medical device that corrects your vision based on a prescription provided by your optometrist. Prescription glasses can address a variety of vision issues, including:

The lenses are custom-made based on your prescription, and they can include special coatings like anti-glare or blue light filters to suit your lifestyle.  

How to Get Prescription Glasses  

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide for getting prescription glasses:

  • Eye exam: Book an appointment with your optometrist to assess your vision and overall eye health  
  • Receive your prescription: Once your optometrist identifies your vision needs, they can write a prescription 
  • Choose your frames: You can browse various frame styles and sizes at your eye doctor’s office with expert guidance to find the perfect fit
  • Lens selection: Your optometrist can help you decide on lens options, including thickness, coatings, and any specialized features you might need
  • Personalized fitting: After your glasses are ready, your optometrist will ensure they fit comfortably and align with your vision needs
An eye doctor performs an eye exam to update their patient's prescription so they can get new eyeglasses.

Getting Glasses From Your Optometrist vs. Online  

When it comes to something as personal and essential as your vision, there’s no substitute for the expertise and care of your eye doctor. While online shopping can seem convenient, getting your glasses directly from your optometrist provides precision, customization, and professional guidance that simply can’t be matched.

Accurate Prescriptions  

Your optometrist ensures your lenses are created precisely to match your prescription. Online retailers require you to input your prescription details yourself, which can lead to errors that compromise your vision.  

Additionally, your optometrist considers your pupillary distance (PD), which is essential for aligning lenses to your eyes. This level of accuracy is difficult to achieve when ordering online.

Quality Materials  

The materials used in prescription lenses and frames vary greatly. Optometrist offices often provide premium lenses with advanced coatings that resist scratches, glare, and smudges. Frames may also be more durable, ensuring they withstand daily wear and tear.  

While online glasses may seem cheaper upfront, they often lack the durability and optical precision of those offered by your optometrist.

Custom Fit & Personalized Care  

One of the most significant advantages of buying glasses from your optometrist is the personalized fitting process. Every face shape is different, and poorly fitted glasses can cause discomfort, sliding frames, or even headaches. Your optometrist ensures your frames fit securely and the lenses align perfectly with your eyes for optimal comfort and vision.  

They’re also there to provide style guidance and help you choose frames that flatter your face, suit your lifestyle, and align with your budget.

Ongoing Support & Maintenance  

When you buy glasses online, you’re often on your own if something goes wrong. But purchasing through your optometrist comes with long-term support. If your frames need adjusting, screws come loose, or if your lenses need cleaning, your optometrist can help—often at no extra cost.  

That ongoing relationship means peace of mind, knowing your eye care needs are in trusted hands.

Convenient & Simple  

Buying glasses through your optometrist simplifies the entire process. Everything is under one roof, from your eye exam to selecting frames and lenses. You also won’t need to worry about shipping delays or incorrect prescriptions.  

This one-stop-shop approach saves time and ensures a seamless experience, which is especially important when dealing with something as crucial as your vision.

Get Your New Eyeglasses Today  

Cutting corners isn’t worth it when it comes to something as important as your vision. While online retailers may offer appealing prices, they can fall short in quality, accuracy, and personalized care. Your optometrist offers more than just glasses—they provide peace of mind, ensuring you receive the care and products for your unique needs.  Whether it’s your first pair of prescription glasses or you’re due for a replacement, we’re ready to guide you through the process at Rutland Optometry. Contact us and book an appointment today.

Why Choose Us

Eyewear That Fits Your Style & Needs

With decades of experience in the community, we’re your local destination for eyewear. Whether you’re looking for classic frames or trendy sunglasses, our team is your guide to finding the look and fit that suits your unique lifestyle.

Thanks to our on-site lens edger, we can craft your lenses with precision and offer same-day service for most single-vision lenses.

Giving Back to the Community: One World Two Eyes

We believe in giving back to those in need. Dr. Sunil Parekh proudly joined One World Two Eyes in 2024, a non-profit organization that provides essential eye care services to children in underserved communities worldwide. 

By supporting One World Two Eyes, we’re helping make a positive impact on the lives of children who may not have access to the eye care they need.

Protecting Your Child’s Vision: Myopia Management

Nearsightedness (myopia) is on the rise, affecting more children than ever before. By slowing progressive myopia, we can help preserve their long-term eye health and vision. 

At Rutland Optometry, we want to help kids succeed. Our comprehensive myopia management can help your child achieve their full potential in and out of the classroom.

Our Location

Our office is conveniently located just minutes from Highway 93 on Highway 33 in the heart of Rutland. Find us inside Willow Park Mall, with ample parking just outside our doors.

Our Address

  • 3-590 Hwy 33 W
  • Kelowna, BC V1X 6A8

Contact Information

Hours of Operation

Monday:
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
Friday:
10:00 AM 4:00 PM
Saturday:
Closed
Sunday:
Closed

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