How Long Does It Take To Adjust To New Glasses?

November 18, 2024

Each year, it's estimated that 2.5 billion units of eyewear are sold. Whether you're buying your first pair of glasses or adding to your collection of luxury eyewear, your eyeglasses should be comfortable, providing you with the clarity and convenience you deserve. However, it's normal to feel some distortion or discomfort as your eyes adjust to the new prescription.

So, how long does this adjustment period last? Keep reading to learn more.

Key Takeaways

It typically takes a few days up to two weeks for your eyes and brain to adjust to new glasses.
Common symptoms that come with new glasses include blurry vision, eye strain, and depth perception issues.
To make the adjustment period a smoother experience, be sure not to switch between your new and old prescription, practice the 20-20-20 rule, and keep your glasses clean.

What Happens to My Vision When I Have New Glasses?

Purchasing the perfect pair of glasses can be an empowering and enjoyable experience. Your glasses can be used for more than vision correction - they can also showcase your personal style and highlight your natural beauty.

However, your eyes and brain may need time to adjust to your new prescription. This is a completely normal process that comes with any new prescription.

It typically takes a few days up to two weeks for your eyes and brain to adjust to new glasses. Most of the time, it will only take two to three days.

If you still experience issues or symptoms after two weeks, contact your optometrist or optician. Your optician will be able to troubleshoot your eyewear and identify any issues so that you don’t need to redo your eye exam.

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Image Source: @lapimaofficial

It's normal to experience some common symptoms like:

Eye strain
Blurred vision
Distorted vision
Fishbowl vision
Headaches
Dizziness
Depth perception issues

The severity of these symptoms can depend on a few factors, including prescription strength and eyewear habits. Though frustrating or uncomfortable, these symptoms are normal and are typically not a cause for alarm.

What if the Adjustment Period Is Taking a While?

During the adjustment period, some minor symptoms are completely normal, such as eye strain, blurred vision, or a fishbowl effect. Keep in mind that an adjustment period is completely normal.

There are a few factors that can impact the adjustment period. For example, if you are transitioning from non-polarized lenses to polarized lenses, you may need a longer adjustment period. You may also need a longer adjustment period if you use progressive lenses for the first time.

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Tips for Wearing New Glasses

It's normal to experience headaches, mild discomfort, or vision changes with new prescription glasses. However, there are a few ways to minimize the severity of these symptoms and make the adjustment period a smoother experience.

Do not switch between new and old glasses. Though your old glasses may feel more comfortable, this will confuse the brain and disrupt the adjustment process.
Wear your new glasses. Wearing your new glasses will encourage your eyes to adjust to the prescription quickly and easily.
Practice the 20-20-20 rule. If you are using a computer or reading a book for an extended period of time, the 20-20-20 will prevent eye strain. Every 20 minutes, focus on an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Keep your glasses clean. Dirt, smudges, or grime can provide an unnecessary obstacle for your eyes and hinder the adjustment process. Read this article for a quick tutorial on cleaning your glasses at home.

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Image Source: @bartonperreira

Finding Your Perfect Glasses

Your new glasses will give you the comfort, confidence, and convenience that you deserve! But that's not all - it's important to select the perfect pair of glasses that will enhance your sense of style. That means uncovering the frames that will express your personality and elevate your aesthetics.

At Oculus Eyecare, we have a vast collection of luxury eyewear from esteemed designers like Caroline Abram, LAPIMA, and Eyevan 7285. These frames have been carefully crafted with durable materials and exquisite details, making each frame a work of art.

If you want to update your prescription and snag a pair of limited-edition Jacques Marie Mage frames, we offer comprehensive eye exams and personal styling appointments for individuals and families in Seattle. Schedule your appointment here!

Bonus: What Are Computer Glasses?

The Bottom Line

Though it may be uncomfortable and frustrating, it takes time to adjust to new glasses. The adjustment period typically lasts two to three days, but it is not unheard of for it to last up to two weeks. If you are concerned about the symptoms, such as blurry vision or eye strain, contact your optometrist or optician.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should You Wear New Glasses to Get Used to Them?

It usually takes two to three days to adjust to new glasses. It may take up to two weeks, though if you experience symptoms for longer than two weeks, you should schedule an appointment with your optician or optometrist.

Is It Normal to Feel Weird With New Glasses?

Yes, to a certain extent. It's normal to experience symptoms like blurred vision, headaches, eye strain, visual distortion, or issues with peripheral vision or depth perception issues for a few days. Your eyes and brain need time to adjust to your new prescription glasses.

How Do I Know if My Glasses Prescription Is Wrong?

It's normal to experience some symptoms like blurred vision or eye strain for a few days after getting new prescription glasses. However, if your symptoms last longer or heavily impact your day-to-day life, you should contact your optometrist.

How Do You Break in New Glasses?

By wearing them! There's no quick fix for adjusting to new glasses. You need to wear your new glasses for your eyes to adjust. Don't switch between your old lenses and new lenses, which can hinder the adjustment period and confuse your brain.

Why Are New Glasses So Disorienting?

The change in prescription can feel disorienting, uncomfortable, or dizzying. If you have a significant change in your prescription, you're more likely to experience symptoms like headaches, blurry vision, or eye strain.

Keep Reading: What Glasses Will Suit My Face Shape?

Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.