Considerations
Because we see with our brains, it takes a while for the eyes and the brain to coordinate getting used to a new prescription. The length of time for adjusting to your new glasses depends on the strength of the prescription, on whether there has been a significant change in the prescription or on whether you are wearing glasses for the first time. Additionally, if you have gone from a large frame to a smaller frame or vice versa, or from contacts to glasses, there may be a longer adjustment period.
Misconceptions
When you put on a new pair of glasses for the first time, things may not appear perfect. While some people are lucky and can see well, for many people there is an adjustment period for new eyeglasses. This process is similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes. There may be a brief period of discomfort, but eventually the glasses should become very comfortable.
Time Frame
Adjusting to new glasses can take up to two weeks. If you have glasses for the first time, the best way to get used to them is to wear them as often as possible and as directed by the eye doctor. If you have had a change in prescription and the difference is significant, the adjustment period may be two weeks, or even a little longer.
Prevention/Solution
If you have worn your glasses for at least two weeks and you are still experiencing difficulty adjusting to the new correction, have your doctor or optician recheck the lenses to verify they have been made according to the prescription. If the lenses are correct, then ask to be rechecked by the doctor to see if the prescription needs to be updated.
DO NOT wear your old prescription while trying to get used to a new one. This will make the adjustment period take longer.
Dr. Carlin is a highly experienced, board-certified ophthalmologist and Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology with more than five decades of experience in vision care and surgical innovation. A graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine, he completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan before serving in the United States Navy in Key West, Florida. In 1977, he founded CarlinVision and has since built a longstanding reputation for excellence in LASIK, cataract surgery, refractive procedures, and cosmetic eyelid surgery. Throughout his career, Dr. Carlin has completed more than 11,000 procedures and remains at the forefront of advanced laser and refractive technologies. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and an active member of multiple leading professional organizations, reflecting his enduring commitment to clinical excellence and patient care.