Getting a new pair of glasses with an updated prescription can be an exciting time—who doesn’t want clear vision and a stylish new accessory? If you’re getting a new prescription, you might be wondering how long it will take to adjust to your new glasses. It typically takes around 2–3 days to adjust to a new pair of glasses. But some people may find it takes up to 2 weeks before the adjustment symptoms subside completely.
You could experience symptoms like eye strain, distorted vision, or changes in your depth perception. These symptoms are not usually anything to worry about, but it may be good to see your eye doctor for a follow-up exam to check your prescription if they persist longer than 2 weeks.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust to New Glasses?
Each person is different, so there isn’t really a surefire answer to how long it’ll take for your eyes to adjust to new glasses. Many people find that their eyes adjust within 2 to 3 days. But this adjustment process could be quicker for some or longer for others. Additionally, the symptoms people experience will likely vary.
Why Can It Take So Long?
A prescription lens corrects the light refraction that’s sent to the brain. And when this changes, the brain needs to readjust. This readjustment time is the time when you might experience some minor symptoms.
Symptoms of Adjusting to New Glasses
The symptoms of adjusting to new glasses are typically minor and temporary. And no one usually experiences them exactly the same or to the same degree.
Symptoms you may experience include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye strain
- Changes in depth perception
- Upset stomach and dizziness
- Headaches
- Distorted objects
- Bending around the edges of your visual field, also known as the “fishbowl effect”
One important thing to note is that if any of these symptoms are severe, you should contact your eye doctor. They may recommend you come in sooner rather than later to check the prescription and make sure no mistakes were made in the manufacturing of the lenses.
How to Adjust to New Glasses
There isn’t a magic one-size-fits-all answer to adjusting to new glasses quickly. It ultimately depends on your brain adjusting to changes in the signals it receives from your retina. But there are a few things to keep in mind that may help make the adjustment process smoother.
Get Frames That Fit Correctly
Finding frames that fit correctly is more than just picking out your favorite color that looks good on your face. Although, the style of the glasses certainly plays a role in which ones you choose.
How your frames fit your face can affect their comfort and how well your eyes adjust to them. But another important part of good-fitting glasses is the pupillary distance (PD) measurement, which is the distance between your pupils. If this is incorrect, it can lead to symptoms like eye strain, headaches, or blurred vision.
Don’t Wear Your Old Glasses
If you have a hard time adjusting to new glasses, it can be tempting to use your old glasses sometimes—but you should avoid switching back and forth if possible. Switching prescriptions can send mixed signals to your brain, taking longer to adjust to the new prescription.
What If Your Eyes Don’t Adjust?
It can take up to 2 weeks for your eyes to adjust. So, there typically isn’t anything to worry about if you’re still within this timeframe. But if the symptoms from adjusting go on longer, it may be a good idea to visit your eye doctor for a follow-up.
Additionally, if the symptoms are severe—like you’re getting migraine headaches versus a mild headache, for example—you may want to see your optometrist, even if it’s less than 2 weeks.
Talk to Us About New Frames & Lenses
The team at Precision Eye Care can help you pick the right frames and lenses for your lifestyle and vision. They can advise you on shape and style in addition to beneficial coatings or lens treatments that may be right for you.
Contact us to book an appointment, or stop by today to get started on choosing a beautiful new pair of glasses. We’re located in Vancouver, Washington!
