How to Read a Bifocal Glasses Prescription

A bifocal prescription can look complicated because it may include several numbers for each eye. The prescription can contain sphere, cylinder and axis values for distance vision plus an ADD value for the near portion. Understanding the basic structure can make online ordering easier.

Sphere, Cylinder and Axis

Sphere describes the main lens power used to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness. Cylinder and axis are used when astigmatism correction is needed. These values can be different for the right and left eyes.

ADD Power

The ADD is an additional power used for close work. It is not simply a separate reading-glasses strength chosen by the customer. It should match the prescription provided by the eye-care professional.

When ordering online, enter every value exactly as written. Do not swap right and left eye information or change signs on numbers. If anything is unclear, ask the prescribing professional for clarification.

After reviewing your prescription, explore Wearluxurys bifocal standard lenses and check the product instructions before completing an order.

Back to blog