Varifocals .. and how I loathe getting new glasses !

Varifocals here for years and wouldn't be without them. I go for the "best" lenses on offer and have found that little bit extra cost to be worth it.

I have had varifocals, the best ones, for years with no problems, but this time I am less happy than usual.
DH had to take his specs back and asked to be retested and it was agreed that the first prescription was totally wrong. We are so reliant on experts, whether is it a chain or an independent company, and sometimes they get it wrong.

I've worn varifocals for years without any problems, but I would agree that deeper lenses allow for more generous gradations which might be more comfortable for some people. I had an eye test in November at Tesco Vision Express. The testing was thorough but I too find the repetitive choosing between colours, lines etc confusing and not very accurate. I opted to have new varifocals and a pair of reading/close work glasses as I do a lot of sewing. Both pairs are fine, no problems, and anti glare coating was included in the price. I always have very cheap frames and don't bother with the 'extras' they offer. I will now have to be tested every 6 months as I have cataracts beginning on both eyes and I take almost regular steroids and antibiotics which could affect that. I may try an independent optician next time simply because we were kept waiting 45 minutes on both visits because they were running late.

Has anyone tried any of the online spectacle services for frames or complete glasses?

When we lived in London we had our eyes tested at a High street optician then took the prescription to a retired man living near us who had a vast selection of frames to choose from. It was so much cheaper, complete varifocals never cost me more than £50.

Thank you everyone for all your comments and views... much appreciated, and has made for very interesting reading... I am glad I'm not alone with the frustration of choosing, buying and wearing varifocals.

I do agree that they are marvelous (when there are no problems obviously) and know that I can't really have any other type of glasses. The optician did offer to change them for a pair of distance and pair of readers for the price of the varifocals.... but no way can I go back to the on off on off routine.

I think I shall probably stick with what I've got for now... as to be honest I'm fed up with the whole thing ..... what with me eyes and me teeth ...... oh don't get me started on teeth

The idea of constant changing of glasses, definitely not for me, they would be on and off like a whores drawers!

phoenix

I have never had varifocals, Moving on from contact lenses ,I have one lense for near vision and one for far. It works very well indeed. Recommended by my optometrist