What Is Prism Correction?
Prism correction is a type of lens correction that can help manage certain problems with the way the eyes work together. A prism lens changes the direction in which light enters the eye, helping to shift the image so that the eyes can work together more comfortably.
Prism correction may be considered when the eyes are not properly aligned or when the brain has difficulty combining the images from both eyes. For some patients, this can help reduce symptoms such as double vision and visual discomfort.
When Might Prism Correction Be Recommended?
Prism correction may be recommended for people experiencing certain binocular vision or eye alignment problems. One of the most common reasons for considering prism lenses is double vision (diplopia).
Depending on your symptoms and assessment results, prism correction may also be considered where there is an eye alignment issue or difficulty coordinating the two eyes.
A prism prescription is not suitable for everyone. Your orthoptist or eye care professional will assess your symptoms, eye movements and how your eyes work together before deciding whether prism correction may be appropriate for you.
What Are Prism Glasses?
Prism glasses look similar to ordinary prescription glasses, but the lenses contain a specific amount of prism correction. Unlike standard lenses, which primarily correct focusing or refractive errors such as short-sightedness or long-sightedness, prism lenses can help alter the position of the image seen by the eye.
Prism correction can be incorporated into your glasses prescription when it is considered appropriate following an eye and binocular vision assessment.
The amount and direction of prism required can vary from person to person, which is why an individual assessment is important before prescribing prism lenses.
Who Can Benefit From Prism Glasses?
Prism correction may be suitable for both adults and children, depending on their individual symptoms and clinical findings.
People who experience double vision, difficulties with eye alignment or other binocular vision problems may be assessed to determine whether prism correction could be helpful.
Every patient is different. Whether prism glasses are appropriate will depend on your symptoms, eye movements, visual needs and the results of your assessment. Your clinician will discuss the available options with you and explain whether prism correction may be suitable for your needs.
What Happens During a Prism Assessment?
A prism assessment begins with a discussion about your symptoms, visual history and any difficulties you are experiencing, such as double vision or visual discomfort.
Your clinician may assess how your eyes move and align, how well they work together and how your symptoms respond to different levels or directions of prism correction.
Where appropriate, a prism trial may be used to explore whether prism correction improves your symptoms. If prism correction is considered suitable, your clinician can discuss the recommended prescription and the next steps with you.
The aim is to provide an individual assessment rather than using the same prism correction for every patient.
Find Out Whether Prism Correction Is Right for You
If you are experiencing double vision, eye alignment difficulties or other symptoms that may benefit from prism correction, a specialist assessment can help determine the most appropriate options for you.