Using reading glasses with lens power over a +3.00

High lens powers are best filled in prescription eyewear because they rely on precise optical alignment. One of the most important measurements your optician takes is your P.D. (pupillary distance)- the distance between the centers of your pupils. This ensures that the optical center of each lens, where vision is clearest and most comfortable, lines up perfectly with the center of your eyes. Your P.D. is measured separately for distance and for reading because your eyes naturally converge when you view anything at a close distance. This simple measurement is important and especially important as lens strength increases.

In ready‑made reading glasses, the P.D. is fixed. For people who need stronger lens powers- typically anything above +3.00, this preset alignment often doesn’t match their personal measurements. The result can be visual discomfort caused by unwanted prismatic effects, which become more noticeable as lens power increases.

That’s why, as your lens strength goes up, individual measurements matter more. Custom prescription reading glasses provide the proper alignment and optical accuracy needed for clear, comfortable vision. Ready-made readers may be good but not for long periods of time.

Renee
Licensed Optician
New York