A few weeks ago, I ordered new glasses. It’s been a few years since I’ve updated my prescription, mainly because I’ve had so much trouble with dry eyes from Sjogrens that it’s very challenging to get an accurate eye exam. My eyesight is often blurred due to lack of tears, and when I put in drops, they blur again for a while. Really tough to get that Goldilocks measurement.
Then there is the issue of frames. I have worn Silhouette frames for years, which are rimless and very lightweight. I have to be extremely careful not to wear frames that put any pressure on the bridge of my nose, because that will accelerate the formation of calcium deposits on the cartilage, which eventually needs to be removed to avoid creating an ulcer. I’ve gone through this uncomfortable surgery several times over the years, and the last time, the ENT plastic surgeon told me it will be very difficult to do again.
When I ordered my new frames, however, the optician persuaded me to try a different lightweight brand called OVVO, which seemed promising. Only problem is that my face is small, and they have limited small styles. I picked one out that seemed good and hoped for the best.
I got the frames last week. There are a few issues.
First of all, the prescription seems to be off. I can see very well when I read—even fine print. But my distance vision seems worse than before. So I have to have another eye exam. I can swap out the lenses at no cost.
Secondly, however, the frames are a bit too heavy. It’s one thing to try them on without any glass lenses, and another to wear them with real lenses. Even as the optician ordered the lightest weight lenses for me, they add just enough pressure to be too much.
Finally, I realized that the shape is not that flattering. I was trying to decide under pressure, when I didn’t have enough time to really think it through. Fortunately I can trade them in for a better pair, or I’d be out a hefty fee.
So it goes. Never a simple solution with chronicity.
Evelyn Herwitz blogs weekly about living fully with chronic disease, the inside of baseballs, turtles and frogs, J.S. Bach, the meaning of life and whatever else she happens to be thinking about at livingwithscleroderma.com. Please view Privacy Policy here.
Image: David Travis
Hello Evelyn
I do have the same problem with the weight of the glasses on the bridge of my nose.
I do hope this is OK to let you know.
I have a prescription and buy my glasses off https://www.eyebuydirect.com/
Every time I order new glasses they check to make sure I have my prescription correct as I have ‘weird eyes’.
Go to the web site click Eyeglasses,then click Filters, go down to Extra Features, click that and choose Lightweight. You will see many different styles of glasses and choose one and you will see the weight of them, your lenses will add more weight.
I have a number of glasses from them, and usually wear a different pair each day – all their glasses do have the weight noted on the information. They do have a return policy.
I will leave that with you.
Thank you again for your comments with dealing with Scleroderma, it makes my morning here in New Zealand when I see you have a new article.
Best wishes Heather
Thanks for the tip, Heather. I’ll check it out! Hope all is well with you in New Zealand.
Be well,
Evelyn