Name: Insight Vision Center Optometry
Address: 3151 Airway Ave. Ste. M3, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626, United States
Telephone: (714) 486-3315
Price range: Make An Appointment

Difference Between Eyeglass and Contact Lens Prescriptions

One of the simplest and safest ways to correct refractive errors is to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses. This helps solve issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness and presbyopia. However, before purchasing one, you’ll need a prescription, and there are differences between contact lenses and glasses prescriptions.

They Are Not Interchangeable. What this basically means is that you can’t use a contact lens prescription to get tailor-fitted eyeglasses and vice versa. Granted, both of them solve vision problems, but the way they work have significant differences. For instance, contact lenses are placed directly on your eyes while eyeglasses sit around 12 millimeters away from them. The grade of your prescription is influenced by these differences.

They Both Have Unique Specifications
Eye doctors will tell you that both eyeglasses and contact lenses have certain specifications that can’t be found in the other. One example is the base curve and the diameter of your contact lenses which help determine the comfortable dimensions of the lenses on your eyes. On the other end of the spectrum, eyeglass prescriptions factor in the sphere that dictates the lens power, a cylinder that displays the strength of the refractive error and an axis that shows the cylinder orientation.

They Have Different Expiration Dates: Contact lenses will normally last you for a year before you can get new lenses. Before that, you’ll need to visit your trusted eye doctor to get an update on your visual health. On the other hand, eyeglass prescriptions are mandated by state laws to expire after two years.

As such, it’s important to know that you’ll need different prescriptions for each of these products. While no option outweighs the other, both are definitely helpful in improving your visual health as long as you find the best one that fits your needs.

For your eye care and vision therapy needs, turn to Insight Vision Center Optometry. We’re the trusted name in the field of optometry. Call us at (714) 486-3315, or fill out our contact form to learn more about our services. We assist patients in Costa Mesa and Newport Beach, CA.

Insight Vision Center Optometry is a proud member of Vision Source, the premier network of private practice optometrists.

Our Testimonials

Real experiences from clients who’ve seen our expertise—discover what our patients have to say.

Dr. Chen and the staff are very friendly and professional and can provide patients with sincere service and advice.

Elise Fu

Insight Vision Center Optometry has truly transformed my eyecare experience over the past year. Under the expert care of Dr. Chen, Dr. Schramm, Dr. Lam, and Dr. Mai, I've received unparalleled attention and personalized service. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the doctors to the outstanding admin and tech team who ensure a seamless and efficient visit every time.

The level of expertise, professionalism, and genuine care exhibited by the entire staff sets Insight Vision Center Optometry apart. From thorough examinations to comprehensive explanations of my eye health, they have created an atmosphere of trust and confidence. It's not just about eye care; it's about an extraordinary commitment to the well-being of their patients.

I wholeheartedly recommend Insight Vision Center Optometry to everyone seeking top-notch optometric services. It's more than an eye clinic; it's a place where your vision is valued, and your experience is exceptional. This team has undoubtedly set the standard for excellence in eyecare.

Nathaniel Choi

Dr. Mai and the entire personnel are amazing! Extremely polite, kind and professional. In addition, I can now see 20/20!!! Thank you, thank you all

Franchezka 777

Dr. Schramm is stellar. He really cares about his patients. Great staff. Scleral lenses are life changing.

Kevin W

My first eye exam in fifteen years. I am so thankful that I found Insight Vision Center. Dr. Lam and staff made me feel like a welcome guest. My eye exam revealed very minor blurriness and Dr. Lam did not pressure me into purchasing eyewear for a condition not necessitating glasses… yet. Maybe next year? I am getting older. They took my VSP insurance. Yay!

Scott H.

Dr. Lam and staff are amazing. Every phone call or interaction is friendly. You can feel the smiles and joy over whatever mode of communication you are interacting with them. Dr. Lam is very knowledgeable and helps you to better understand everything that is going on with your eyes. She made me aware of potential problems I may have with my eyes and walked me through every step of the process. She helped me understand the various factors that could be causing my vision to be a little impaired and followed up with me as I had to see an ophthalmologist. Great team, great office.

Virgilio S.