What Are Prism Lenses and How Do They Help Double Vision?
Double vision, or diplopia, happens when your eyes aren't working together properly. Instead of both eyes focusing on the same point, they're slightly misaligned, so your brain receives two slightly different images. Prism lenses bend light rays before they enter your eyes, helping to realign what you're seeing so your brain receives just one clear image instead of two.
Prisms don't correct the underlying eye misalignment itself. Instead, they compensate for it, making it easier for your eyes to work together. Think of it like adjusting the angle of a picture frame so both sides line up perfectly. When you come in for an eye exam at Vision Palace Optical on Avenue U, Dr. Sheyko or Dr. Shlivko can evaluate whether prism correction is right for your specific situation.
When Might Your Doctor Prescribe Prism Lenses?
Your eyes need to aim at the same target and work in sync, a process called binocular vision. When something interferes with that coordination, double vision can result. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that prism lenses help with several conditions where eye alignment is imperfect.
Common reasons your optometrist might recommend prisms include eye muscle weakness, nerve damage affecting eye movement, strabismus (crossed or turned eyes), or issues from stroke or neurological conditions. Some people also develop double vision after certain surgeries or injuries. Your doctor will evaluate your specific eye alignment during your exam and determine if prism correction can help. The strength and direction of the prism are customized to your exact needs, so every prescription is different.
Prisms are also used to help manage symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or eye strain that result from your eyes working too hard to align on their own. If you're experiencing double vision on Avenue U or anywhere in Brooklyn, don't wait. The sooner you get evaluated, the sooner you can start feeling better.
How Prism Strength Is Measured and Prescribed
Prism power is measured in units called prism diopters. Your prescription might include something like "2 prism diopters base in" or "1.5 prism diopters base out," which tells us how much the light needs to be bent and in which direction. Higher numbers mean stronger correction.
During your exam, your doctor uses specialized tests to measure exactly how misaligned your eyes are and in which direction. Warby Parker's guide to prism glasses explains that the prescription is written with both the strength and the base direction, so your lenses bend light in precisely the right way for your eyes.
Prism lenses can be made in any prescription strength, whether you need correction for nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or reading. They can also be combined with other lens features. At Vision Palace Optical, we work with you to make sure your prism prescription is accurate and comfortable, because even small adjustments in prism strength can make a big difference in how you see.
Prism Lenses vs. Contact Lenses and Other Options
Some people ask whether they can get prism correction in contact lenses instead of eyeglasses. While prism contact lenses do exist, they're less common and typically reserved for specific situations. Most people find prism eyeglasses to be the most practical and effective option, especially for managing double vision related to eye misalignment.
Prism eyeglasses are also easier to adjust. If your prescription needs fine-tuning, we can remake your lenses. Contact lenses are more complicated to customize with prism power, and they're often less stable on the eye. Your doctor will discuss which option makes the most sense for your condition, eye health, and lifestyle.
If you've been told you need prism correction but you're unsure about next steps, our optometrists at Vision Palace Optical on Avenue U can explain all your options in plain language. We've helped many Brooklyn residents understand their vision needs and find solutions that work for them.
What to Expect When You Start Wearing Prism Lenses
When you first put on prism lenses, your vision might feel strange for a few days. Your brain is learning to process the corrected image alignment, and that adjustment period is completely normal. Most people adapt within a week or so, though it varies.
Some people notice immediate relief from double vision, while others notice that headaches or eye strain gradually improve over time as their eyes stop working so hard to compensate. Wear your prism lenses as prescribed, and don't switch back and forth between them and non-prism lenses during the adjustment period, as that can slow down adaptation.
If you're not adjusting well after a week or two, come back in and let us know. Your prescription might need a small adjustment, or there might be another reason your eyes aren't adapting as expected. This is why follow-up communication with your doctor is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes double vision, and is it always treatable with prisms?
Double vision can come from eye muscle weakness, nerve damage, strabismus, or neurological conditions. Not every case of double vision is best treated with prisms, though. Your doctor will evaluate the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment, which might be prisms, vision therapy, surgery, or something else entirely.
Will prism lenses permanently fix my double vision?
Prism lenses manage the symptoms of double vision by helping your eyes align properly while you're wearing them. They don't cure the underlying condition, but they do allow you to see clearly without the discomfort of diplopia. Your doctor will discuss whether your condition is temporary or long-term and what ongoing care might look like.
Can I get prism lenses without eyeglasses, just in contacts?
Prism contact lenses do exist, but they're much less common and harder to fit than prism eyeglasses. Most people with double vision find that eyeglasses work better and are easier to adjust if the prescription needs fine-tuning. Your optometrist can discuss whether contact lens options might work for you.
How much do prism lenses cost?
Pricing for prism lenses depends on the lens material, any additional lens coatings or treatments, and your frame choice. Coverage varies by plan. Call us or book through Zocdoc to verify your insurance benefits before your visit.
How long does it take to adjust to prism lenses?
Most people adapt to prism lenses within a week or two. Your brain is learning to process the realigned image, and that takes a little time. If you're still experiencing discomfort after two weeks, let your doctor know, as your prescription might need adjustment.
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology. What Is Prism Correction in Eyeglasses?
- Warby Parker. What Are Prism Glasses?
If you're experiencing double vision or think you might benefit from prism lenses, don't wait. Book your eye exam at Vision Palace Optical. Book through Zocdoc, get in touch, or call us at (718) 998-8400. We're at 1723 Avenue U in Brooklyn, open Monday through Saturday. Dr. Sheyko and Dr. Shlivko are here to help you see clearly again.