Expert Advice

Prescription Sunglasses & Glasses Frequently Asked Questions

Our comprehensive prescription eyewear FAQ guide answers the most asked questions about prescription sunglasses & glasses. Delve into the world of prescription eyewear, exploring the benefits, types, and key features to make informed decisions based on your needs and style preferences.

Published on: October 9, 2024

Bruna Marquezine wearing optical aviators by ray-ban

Whether you're seeking the perfect pair of prescription sunglasses for sunny adventures or prescription glasses for everyday use, protecting your eyes and clear vision are essential. We understand the importance of both vision correction and style, so we've created this comprehensive FAQ guide to answer all the most asked questions about prescription eyewear.

In this guide, we will delve into the world of prescription sunglasses and glasses, exploring their benefits, different types available, and key features to consider. From understanding the significance of UV protection to deciphering the various lens options and frame styles, we aim to provide you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions that cater to your unique needs and style preferences.

Are prescription sunglasses covered by insurance?

Yes, prescription sunglasses may be covered by insurance, depending on your policy with your health fund. Insurance coverage for prescription sunglasses and glasses varies among providers and insurance plans. To see if your insurance covers prescription sunglasses, you should review your policy or contact your insurance provider directly. Most major health funds include prescription sunglasses as part of your optical cover, and with many of our sunglasses at Just Sunnies being prescriptible, you can get extra value out of your optical extras by choosing a pair of high-quality prescription sunnies online.

Are prescription sunglasses tax deductible?

As prescription sunglasses and glasses are considered medical or personal expenses, they can not be claimed as tax-deductible items.

Are prescription sunglasses worth it?

For those who wear sunglasses outside on a regular basis and find themselves switching between sunglasses and prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses are absolutely worth the investment. For driving, laying out in the sun or everyday wear, sunglasses fitted with a script will reduce the need to carry multiple pairs around while protecting your eyes from UV rays.

Can all sunglasses be made prescription?

While many sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses, some styles might be trickier to add them in. Some extra curved wraparound sunglasses or odd-shaped frames may not work with higher prescriptions as they may distort your vision. As long as the frame is sturdy and high-quality, most sunglasses are able to be fitted with prescription lenses with ease.

How to read a glasses prescription?

Understanding how to read your script can be tricky. Your sphere indicates the lens power you need to see more clearly and determines whether you are long or short-sighted, with (+) numbers indicating you are long-sighted meaning you find it difficult to see things up close, and (-) numbers indicating you are short-sighted and have trouble seeing things far away without glasses. The higher the number, the stronger the prescription lens is required.

Your prescription might have other things listed like ADD, which is a reading addition measurement for those who require glasses for reading. The cylinder number, or CYL, indicates the lens power to correct astigmatism if necessary, accompanied by an AXIS number that shows the angle of the lens required for the CYL.

Your PD number stands for the pupillary distance, a measurement of the distance between your pupils. This number is required to ensure that your lenses are made to sit in front of your pupil.

Man wearing Oakley Meta sunglasses with orange lenses

How do I measure my PD?

To measure your PD, simply hold a ruler up to your right eye with the end of the ruler in line with your pupil. Measure the distance between your pupils and find the millimetre number that lines up with your left pupil. If your script has two PD numbers for your left and right eye, you can add these numbers together to find your total PD.

How much do prescription glasses cost?

Depending on the frames you choose, your script and additional lens features available, prescription glasses can vary in cost. Prescription sunglasses can be affordable, look towards cheaper prescriptible frames to keep the cost down while keeping extra lens features at a minimum. For a good quality pair of prescription frames, you can expect to pay anywhere upwards from $300 AUD. Keep in mind, your health fund may cover part of your prescription pair as part of your optical or extras cover.

Are blue light glasses prescription?

No, blue light glasses do not have a prescription in the lens. Blue light lenses are an additional lens feature that can be applied to your prescription glasses or sunglasses that aid in deflecting blue light from screens. Glasses with a blue light filter can reduce eye fatigue and strain while improving your sleep.

Can mirrored sunglasses be prescription?

Yes, you can create your prescription sunglasses to have mirrored lenses. Sunglasses with a mirrored lens aid in deflecting harsh glare from hitting your eyes while adding a fashion-forward look to your optical frames.

Can you get polarised prescription sunglasses?

Yes, many polarised sunglasses allow for a prescription to be added to the lens. Polarised lenses are highly recommended for the highest protection against UV rays and harmful glare that reflects off of shiny surfaces. Just Sunnies offers a huge range of polarised prescription sunglasses for men and women, allowing you to see more clearly while keeping your eyes protected.