Adjusting to new glasses can be like breaking in a new pair of shoes—it takes time, patience, and often a little discomfort before everything fits just right. Although it typically only takes two to three days to adjust to wearing new glasses, this process can be particularly disconcerting for first-time glasses wearers.
This guide will walk you through the adjustment period, explain why it takes time, and offer practical tips to ease the transition.
Why Does It Take So Long To Adjust to New Glasses?
When you start wearing new glasses, your eyes and brain have to adapt to a new way of processing visual information. This involves recalibrating how light enters your eyes and how images reach your brain.
If you’ve switched from not wearing glasses to a strong prescription, your brain requires more time to adapt to these changes. Similarly, significant adjustments to your prescription, like changes in lens type or prism correction, can extend the time it takes for your eyes to adapt.
It’s important to remember that this process is normal. Your body is remarkably adaptable, and, with patience, you’ll soon be seeing clearly and comfortably with your new pair of glasses.
Do New Glasses Seem Blurry at First?
It’s common for new glasses to feel slightly off initially, and you might experience some blurriness. This is usually temporary, and is just a part of the adjustment process. Wearing your glasses consistently will speed up the process and help you adjust more quickly.
What is the Fishbowl Effect with New Glasses?
The “fishbowl effect” is a common experience for those adjusting to new glasses, particularly if the lenses have a strong prescription. It’s characterized by a sensation that the world around you is curving or bending inwards, similar to the view through a fishbowl.
The fishbowl effect arises from the refraction of light through the new lenses, which can alter one’s perception of space and depth. The brain needs time to adjust to this altered input. The sensation typically diminishes as the eyes and brain adapt to new lenses.
What Are the Symptoms of Adjusting to New Glasses?
Common symptoms during this period include:
- Headaches and eye strain may be felt due to the additional work your eyes do to adjust focus and accommodate the new prescription.
- Dizziness can also occur as your brain adapts to the new way of processing visual information. This is particularly common if there’s been a significant change in your prescription.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your optometrist to rule out any underlying lens issues.
What If My Prescription Is the Same?
New glasses can feel odd or uncomfortable even when your prescription hasn’t changed. There are several reasons for this seemingly strange phenomenon.
- The shape and fit of the frames might differ from your previous pair, affecting how they sit on your face and how you see through them.
- Slight variations in lens manufacturing or adjustments in lens coatings can alter your visual experience.
- You might also need time to adapt to new materials that weren’t present in your old lenses, such as anti-reflective coatings or blue light filters.
Although the prescription remains unchanged, new glasses’ physical and optical properties can still impact your visual experience.
How Do I Know If My Prescription Glasses Are Wrong?
While some discomfort is expected during the adjustment period, there are signs that might indicate an incorrect prescription. This can include:
- Persistent blurriness
- Frequent headaches
- Double vision
- Consistent difficulty focusing
- Squinting more than usual
- Pain or discomfort in your nose or ears
If you suspect your prescription is incorrect, schedule a follow-up appointment with your optometrist. They can assess the fit and accuracy of your lenses, ensuring you have the right prescription tailored to your needs.
Tips for Getting Used to Wearing New Glasses Fast
To adapt to a new pair of glasses more quickly, wear them as often as possible. Consistent wear allows your brain to adjust to new visual input more quickly. While switching back to your old glasses might be tempting, resist the urge. Switching between pairs can prolong the adjustment period and confuse your brain.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, take short breaks throughout the day to relax your eyes. Gentle eye exercises, such as focusing on distant objects or using eye relaxation techniques, can also help ease the transition to your new glasses.
Benefits of Getting Glasses from Your Optometrist
When adjusting to new eyeglasses, you can ask your optometrist to adjust your frames or update your prescription to ensure that your eyeglasses remain as comfortable and practical as possible.
Optometrists also tailor your glasses to your prescription and needs. They take precise measurements and account for factors like face shape, visual requirements, and lifestyle, offering valuable insights into lens coatings and materials that enhance the visual experience.
Visionary Eye Centre knows that adjusting to new glasses requires patience and understanding. Our goal is to provide preventative procedures that expand on traditional eye exams and comprehensively educate you on your eye health. Contact us today to see how we can help you get into new eyeglasses.
