Is changing a rx for sunglasses a bad idea?

Question

I am buying new prescription sunglasses for daily work. The problem is that quality frames available through my job (at a discount) can only be fitted with lenses that accomadate a cylinder of -2.0 max, and my right eye has a cyl. of -2.5. How would simply going with a -2.0 impact my vision?

Oh, details about my prescription: OD -4.0 (sph), -1.5 (cyl), 089 (axis); OS -3.75 (sph), -2.5 (cyl), 086 (axis).

Thanks!

Answer 1

You would generally be slightly blurry in that eye because  the  cyl is undercorrected, but only your eyecare professional can really determine if that is okay.

Also, who manufactures your sunglasses makes a difference - I have done -2.50 cyl in a heavily wrapped Oakley frame, but that was only because of my skill set. Most other lab techs wouldn't know how to alter the beveling layout successfully to get the eyewire to hold the lens securely.

Also, keep in mind there are Rx limits for a reason - when you have that much cyl in a lens, the more likely you will get peripheral distortion from having to bend the cyl to match the curve of the frame. And/or the lens may pop out much more easily, among other issues.

A flatter front (also called face form) is recommended for high cyl Rx's but again, you would need to speak your eyecare professionals...

good luck and let us know what you decide. And bravo for protecting your eyes - I recommend polarized lenses with a backside anti-reflective coating and a flash mirror for the best glare and UV protection.

Answer 2

If the axis was off my 1 may be. But not the cylinder. You need that for you astigmatism correction. Depending on what you do for a living, you'll experience blurriness because you won't get that sharpness without the right RX. Some people get by, some people get headaches. You could give a try, but Iwouldn't make a huff if you have to purchase a new pair of sunglasses because these don't work. Check with your local optician.