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When you have to wear glasses, the most important part of the process is choosing the right eye glasses frames. Of course your eye specialist can help you with selecting the ideal pair, but it helps to relieve the frustration and save some time if you can narrow down your choices from the beginning. Knowing the shape of your face and what best suits your eye coloring and skin tone is the best way to start.

There are three very important factors to consider when hunting for the perfect eye glasses frames for you:

• Your eyewear should highlight your eye color, such as green frames for green eyes or similar.
• The shape of the frame should contrast the shape of your face.
• The size of the frame should be in scale with the size of your face.

You can use these guidelines along with the professional advice and assistance of your eye specialist:

• Round face – this type of face features no angles, with the width and length of the face with the same proportions. Angular or narrow glasses can make a round face appear thinner and longer. Choose a clear bridge to widen the eyes and frames that are wider than they are deep.
• Oblong face – this type of face is longer than it is wide with a long cheek line. Frames that have more depth than width will give the appearance of a shorter and more balanced face. Choosing a low bridge will shorten the entire appearance too.
• Oval face – this type of face offers somewhat balanced proportions. It is common to choose eye glasses frames that are wider than the broadest part of the face.
• Diamond face – this type of face often features high and dramatic cheekbones and narrow eye and jaw lines. The cheekbones are also often broad. You will need to choose eye glasses frames that soften the cheekbones and highlight the eyes. Look for rimless frames or oval small frames. Frames with decorative brow lines are also quite complementary.

Find the perfect glasses frames for you at Vincent Optical in Kitchener

At Vincent Optical in Kitchener, we help our clients to select the perfect eye glasses frames for their budget and appearance. Whether you are fashion forward, an avid sports participant or a respected businessman, we have the ideal eye glasses frames for you.

Come in and discover our full range of eye glasses frames or book an appointment to see the eye specialist at Vincent Optical today . We are available via email or telephone – contact us today.

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What are polarized sunglasses and are they really worth your while? Polarized lenses have a unique chemical film filter that reduces the glare of the sun that would have otherwise penetrated through to your eyes when the sun reflects of solid surfaces such as the road or surfaces like water. These lenses reduce the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays and it can also help a person wearing the polarized lenses see objects more clearly, which is beneficial when driving or participating in outdoors sports.

A heated debate surrounding polarized glasses is whether they need to be worn in winter as well as summer. According to our expert optometrist in Kitchener and many other experienced eye care professionals around the world – the answer is yes. The light in winter can be just as harsh as the summer light and just because the temperature is cooler outside, doesn’t mean that the sun’s UV rays are less damaging . 

If you’re shopping for new polarized sunglasses this season, make sure you’re on the lookout for cheap imitations. Whether you’re buying a regular style, branded frames or a wrap-around sports type of sunglasses, the polarized filter needs to be confirmed by an optometrist (so steer clear of knock-off versions found at flea markets).

Our qualified and experienced eye specialist on site will ensure that you are provided with more information on your options. Simply contact us at Vincent Optical for more information about our polarized sunglasses today.

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Christmas time is the time for sharing. We would like to share with you our selection of top quality eye care. Whether you have been naughty or nice this year, we believe you deserve to have perfect vision. We know you’re an individual and your eyes are as unique as you. If you suffer from astigmatism causing blurred and distorted visions we have the best quality astigmatism contact lenses available. We also have a wide selection of eyeglasses frames to combine your unique needs to your prescription eyeglass lenses and a variety of designer prescription sunglasses. To colour things up this festive season we have a rainbow selection of colour contact lenses

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to clearly see the look on your loved ones faces as they tear open their perfect gift? Unwrap your eyesight and indulge in the wide selection of prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses tailor-made to suit your needs and Christmas desires. Vision should not only come around once a year but should be a lifetime investment.

Give yourself the gift of vision this festive season with our wide range of eye care products. Chat to your local optometrist in Kitchener who will assist you with your eye care needs. Book an exam with your eye specialist today and invest in the perfect gift for you.

Santa is making his list and make sure we are on it; simply book your eye exam today with Vincent Optical Optometrists, your help in eye care.

For festive season eye care information from Vincent Optical in Kitchener

We at Vincent Optical in Kitchener would like to encourage our patients to increase their quality of life through quality of vision. We provide you with professional eye specialists who will help you find the most suitable and affordable eye care option for your needs.

For more information contact us and book your eye exam with Vincent Optical this festive season. Wishing you a merry Christmas to you and your family.

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It’s easy to talk about what our personal visions and goals are for the New Year, but what about our actual physical vision and eye health? This year is certainly seeing a trend towards more health conscious living. If you want to make the most of your overall health in 2016, start by boosting your eye health, by following these simple tips from leading eye specialist in Kitchener:

• If you’re getting out and about in the sun this year, remember to protect your eyes from damaging UV rays. Book yourself an eye exam so that you can get a pair of prescription sunglasses. Your prescription sunglasses will protect the eye and delicate surrounding skin. They can also be far more convenient than wearing contact lenses, especially if you are swimming or playing sport.
• Try not to overuse the air conditioner. Yes, air conditioners are lovely things, especially when it’s hot, but they can also dry out your eyes and cause irritation. If you are experiencing this, it could very well be the air conditioner. If you are suffering from dry eyes and don’t know the cause, book an eye exam with your optometrist to determine the underlying cause. If you do have dry eyes and want to use eye drops, make sure they come from your optometrist as over the counter drops might not be able to treat your specific condition.
• Remove all eye-makeup before sleeping. Mascara, eyeliner and any lotions you might use can get into your eye at night and cause irritation and scratching.
• Give your eyes a break. If you work with bright screens all day and return home to watch television or read on your device all night, chances are your eyes will be tired and strained. It is advised that you take some time to rest your eyes at least every 30 minutes to an hour. Take a short walk or make a cup of tea – just get away from the computer screen for a few seconds/minutes at a time.
• Eat a healthy balanced diet as this will promote overall general health, including that of your eyes. Foods said to boost eye health include spinach, broccoli, fish (salmon and tuna), avocados, certain teas and even fruits such as blueberries and strawberries.

The best tip for better eye health in 2016 is to book an eye exam with your optometrist in Kitchener. A simple test can help to uncover any problems you might already be experiencing or catch potential eye diseases and disorders in advance.

Get your eyes tested at Vincent Optical and start the New Year off with good eye health

The Vincent Optical team in Kitchener offer walk in eye exams for those who want to boost their eye health and lead a healthier lifestyle this year. Spending some time with your eye specialist can help you to better protect your vision now and in the future.

For more information and advice on booking an eye exam, contact us at Vincent Optical today.

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Nothing can be more frustrating than having to wear a set of contact lenses that are uncomfortable. It is certainly recommended that you book an eye-test with your local optometrist in Kitchener if your eyes don’t feel or look good when wearing your contact lenses. While there are a few tips for solving short term discomfort, if the problem persists, you need to visit your optometrist for professional advice.
Want to alleviate contact lens discomfort? Consider the following tips / solutions:

• Artificial tears – these can provide temporary relief to occasional dry eyes. Of course it is important to get these drops from your optician as some are not compatible with all types of contact lenses.
• Only use the prescribed eye care products – your optician will have prescribed contact lens care products that are best suited to your lenses and eyes. Using alternative products can result in eye irritation and discomfort as well as deterioration in the quality of your lenses.
• Boost nutrition – natural tear production is important for comfortable contact lens wearing. Your eyes will need to produce enough tears, but the quality of tears must also be good. Following a healthy and nutritional diet that includes Omega 3 fatty acids and flaxseed oil can help with this.

The best solution however is to find the most comfortable contact lenses for you, with the help of your dedicated optometrist. This can be done by booking an eye exam and having a contact lens fitting where precision fit custom contacts can be designed and created specifically for you.

Get prescription contact lenses at Vincent Optical in Kitchener

At Vincent Optical in Kitchener, we understand just how irritating uncomfortable contact lenses can be. With this in mind we recommend only the best quality brand of contact lenses made from breathable material and designed for a comfortable fit. Wearing ill-fitting contact lenses can actually lead to more serious health conditions, so it’s best to have your eyes checked as soon as discomfort and irritation occurs. If it is best vision and fit you are looking for, our optician in Kitchener can assist!

To book an eye exam to ensure that you get the most comfortable contact lenses prescribed, contact us at Vincent Optical today.

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Anti-reflective coating (AR) is a type of Optical coating applied to the surface of lenses to reduce reflection and glare. This improves the efficiency of lenses and clarity of vision. The coating does just what the name implies: it decreases the reflection of light from the front and/or back of the lenses.Additionally, AR coatings increase the transmission of light through the eyeglass lenses. Modern coatings have the capacity to essentially completely eliminate the amount of glare experienced by those who wear glasses. A high-quality AR or anti-glare coating will allow 99.5% of light to pass through the lenses, allowing for better vision.

Ophthalmic lens coatings generally fall into four categories. The lowest layer closest to the lens surface is an impact-resistant coating. Above this is a hard coating, which protects the lens from scratches. The outermost layer is a water-repellent coat that prevents smudges from forming and allows easy cleaning of oil films caused by fingerprints. It also minimizes scratches created by repeated wiping, dust and nearly-invisible grains of sand. Between the hard coat and water-repellent layer are anti-reflective (AR) coats, crucial for the lens to achieve clear vision.

Nikon Anti-reflective Coating

Advantages of Anti-Reflective Coating:

• Night time driving vision improvement by glare reduction, particularly on rainy nights;
• Glare reduction from computer, cellphone, and television screens;
• Improves appearance by making lenses seem virtually invisible;
• More photogenic as result of glare reduction on lenses; and
• New hydrophobic AR coatings resist smudging, making cleaning easier.

Crizar glare coating

Patients with a stronger prescription in need of high-index lenses will find more benefit from anti-reflective coating as high-index lenses reflect more light than regular plastic lenses.The higher the index of refraction of the lens material, the more light that will be reflected from the surface of the lenses. AR coating greatly enhances the vision of those with a stronger prescription.

Anti-reflective coating can be applied to any kind of ophthalmic lens. For example, glass, plastic, high-index, poly-carbonate, sunglass lenses, and “Transition” lenses, will benefit greatly from AR coating. Interestingly, when it comes to sunglasses, AR coating is typically applied to the back surface of the lenses, eliminating reflection of the eye and objects behind the wearer.

Anti-reflective and anti-glare coating help wearers who experience visual strain caused by screen-use. The advancement of handheld devices and LCD displays has put every age group at risk of harmful blue lightexposure. Blue-violet light is harmful to retinal cells and is one of the risk factors for age-related Macular degeneration (AMD). Besides simply reducing glare, companies like Nikon and Essilor have developed AR coatings such as Nikon Seecoat Blue and Crizal Prevencia which block blue light and help to reduce eye fatigue.

Crizal Prevencia coating

In Japan, over 80% of eyeglass lenses include AR-coating. And, in most European countries, over 50% of glasses wearers have an anti-glare coating on their lenses. Yet, in the United States, less than 25-30% of lenses have anti-reflective coating. Although firm statistics aren’t known regarding Canadian patients and AR coating, the percentage of users seems to hover between 50-75%.

Despite these higher numbers, there is still room for improvement. Anti-reflective and anti-glare coatings are a positive and necessary addition to your eyecare regimen. During your next visit to your optician, ask about the different kinds of AR-coatings and how they can benefit you and your lifestyle.

You have only one set of eyes, without any spares; take care of your vision.

Vincent Afrouzi, R.O.

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Transitions lenses are optical lenses that darken on exposure to specific types of light of sufficient intensity, most commonly ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In the absence of activating light the lenses return to their clear state. Transitions lenses may be made of glass, poly carbonate, or another plastic. They are principally used in eyeglasses that are dark in bright sunlight, but clear in low ambient light conditions. They darken significantly within about a minute of exposure to bright light, and take somewhat longer to clear.

In one sort of technology, molecules of silver chloride or another silver halide are embedded in transition lenses. They are transparent to visible light without significant ultraviolet component, which is normal for artificial lighting. In another sort of technology, organic photochromic molecules, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays as in direct sunlight, undergo a chemical process that causes them to change shape and absorb a significant percentage of the visible light, as they darken. These processes are reversible; once the lens is removed from strong sources of UV rays the photochromic compounds return to their transparent state.

Pro and cons of transition lenses:

• Transitions lenses darken within few seconds and turn clear again just as fast. They maintain about 5-percent residual tint when indoors.
• Protect the eye from harmful UV rays. Reducing exposure to UV rays lowers the risk of cataracts and other age-related eye issues.
• This lens is available in brown and gray variable.
• Transition can apply to all forms of lenses, such as single, bifocal, and progressive lenses.
• At Vincent Optical we recommend transitions lenses for situations where you are indoors and outdoors within minutes.
• Transitions lenses are ideal for children who have difficulty juggling more than one pair of lenses.

Cons:

• They don’t work in a car because the windshield blocks the UV rays that are necessary to initiate the lenses’ darkening mechanism. However, newer technology are available now for more car friendly transition lens option.
• Walking in from outdoor they require some time for them to become clear, in some cases you are forced to remove your glasses to see.

Our qualified and experienced optician and staff will ensure that you are provided with the best options for all of your eye wear needs. Simply contact us at Vincent Optical for more information.

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This is the number one question we hear when a customer comes in looking for sunglasses. Ray-Ban is arguably the best-selling brand throughout eye wear history. There is a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses to suit any face shape and every style. Suitable for prescription and non-prescription wearers, this iconic brand can be worn by everyone!

Ray-Ban started with the US Air Force in the late 1930’s when they introduced their now-iconic G-15 green glass lenses, which were designed to cut the glare experienced by pilots, without reducing optical clarity. In 1938 the classic Ray-Ban Aviator was born!

Nearly 80 years later, this iconic model now comes in a wide variety of styles and colours, and offers many different lens options including mirror-coating, polarization, anti-glare coating, and gradient tint!

Currently, our most requested Ray-Ban frame is the Ray-Ban Wayfarer. This style came about in 1952, as Hollywood started to truly influence public fashion sense. Having been worn by the likes of James Dean and Audrey Hepburn, a pair of Wayfarers quickly became one of the most easily recognizable fashion accessories. Ray-Ban recently introduced their New Wayfarer, which gives the wearer that classic Wayfarer look but with an updated and sleeker style. Today, there is seemingly no end to the variety of frames and lens colour combinations this model has to offer, including everything from the classic-cool black frame with iconic green lenses, to pink frames with pink gradient lenses!

By 1969, Ray-Ban had increased its catalogue to include over 50 styles, embracing the social attitude towards change. By this time, they had dedicated models of sunglasses for men, women, and children, becoming the world leader with their sense of style and renowned quality and durability. Ray-Ban frame and lens innovation continued into the 1970’s, introducing new sport glasses with mirrored lenses. Today, many Ray-Ban models are still made in Italy adding to their classic styling and the quality they continue to produce.

The ‘80’s continued to boost Ray-Ban’s popularity. Throughout this decade, not only could a pair of Ray-Ban’s add to character development in movies such as Risky Business (1983) and Top Gun (1986) the sunglasses became a movie character in their own right. Nowhere was this more evident than with the birth of the Ray-Ban Clubmaster worn by Denzel Washington in 1992’s Malcolm X. Nearly 25-years later, the Ray-Ban Clubmaster has maintained it’s popularity, with colours, materials and sizes for everyone, even children!

The new millennium saw Ray-Ban expanding and re-imagining several of their classic sunglasses. In 2009, The classic Wayfarer was reintroduced with exciting and bold inner-temple patterns, such as images of the New York subway map and several colour variations of the Ray-Ban logo. In 2011, Ray-Ban’s focus turned to their Tech Segment. This line of ophthalmic eyewear and sunglasses were made with durability and flexibility in mind, introducing a wide range of lightweight titanium frames. This line offers something for the tech enthusiast, all the while providing a sporty and casual look.

Having entered 2016, Ray-Ban will soon celebrate its 80th anniversary! Across every decade since its inception, the spotlight has never left this iconic brand, showcasing the ability to truly withstand the test of time. At Vincent Optical, we appreciate the design and style of Ray-Bans, in addition to their amazing lens technology. Glass lenses provide the best visual clarity, whether polarized or not, and are also incredibly durable making them very scratch resistant. Several Ray-Ban models also now come with anti-glare coating on the back surface of the lens, providing optimal protection from the sun. So, to answer the ever-enduring question, Yes, we most certainly carry Ray-Ban sunglasses and we’d be happy to help you find just the right pair for you!

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Do you need to wear prescription sunglasses? First and foremost, if you wear prescription eye glasses then you should certainly get a pair of prescription sunglasses too. Of course you should also look at investing in a pair of prescription sunglasses if you are involved in specific outdoor activities or have an active outdoor lifestyle. For those who wear contact lenses, the convenience of wearing prescription sunglasses when involved in outdoor activities, such as a trip to the beach or similar, is simply invaluable. While many may believe that wearing sunglasses is just a fashion statement, it’s not. These particular protective glasses are responsible for protecting the eye and surrounding skin against damage from the sun’s UV rays.

It is also vitally important to realize that many of the regular pairs of sunglasses available on the market do not offer sufficient eye protection. This means that pairing these sunglasses with your prescription contact lenses will simply not be enough. Designer sunglasses for men and women are typically available in prescription form too, which means you can get the right pair even if you require bifocals or progressive lens options.

When shopping around for prescription sunglasses to protect the health of your eyes, always chat to your local optometrist in Kitchener first. Your dedicated eye specialist should be able to carry out an eye exam to determine precisely what your eye care needs are.

Get your prescription sunglasses from Vincent Optical

At Vincent Optical you will find a qualified and experienced eye specialist available to carry out an eye exam and ensure you are presented with viable prescription sunglasses options. We offer designer sunglasses for men and women, polarized sunglasses and even sunglasses for those who require bifocals. When it comes to protecting your eyes, we have the solution for you.

For more information and advice on getting prescription sunglasses, pay a visit to your local optometrist in Kitchener, Vincent Optical. Alternatively, contact us to make an appointment today.

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Taking care of your eyes means regular eye exams and treatment when necessary. When it comes time to make an appointment, however, do you know what type of eye doctor you need to see – an optometrist or ophthalmologist? These two eye practices confuse many people and some even erroneously use these terms interchangeably. While there are some similarities between these two types of eye care providers, there also are some very stark differences.

Similarities between Optometrist or Ophthalmologist

First, it’s important to note that an optometrist or ophthalmologist are both doctors who provide eye care services. Both doctors can evaluate your eyes and prescribe and fit contact lenses or eyeglasses. In addition, an optometrist or ophthalmologist can diagnosis various types of eye disease, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration and prescribe eye treatment medication as necessary.

Differences between Optometrist or Ophthalmologist

The major difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist is that an ophthalmologist is a licensed Medical Doctor (MD) and an Optometrist is a Doctor of Optometry (OD). An optometrist must complete an accredited undergraduate program, and continue on to earn their Doctor of Optometry degree. An ophthalmologist, on the other hand, must complete an accredited undergraduate program, as well as four years of medical school and a residency.

Optometrists and ophthalmologists also are regulated by different organizations in each province. In Ontario, optometrists are regulated by the College of Optometrists of Ontario, whereas ophthalmologists are regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

As a licensed MD, an ophthalmologist can perform eye surgery, whereas an optometrist cannot. When an optometrist diagnosis a patient with an eye disease or disorder that requires any type of eye surgery, even laser surgery, the optometrist must refer them to an ophthalmologist. In some cases, an optometrist may be able to partner with the ophthalmologist to provide some level of post-surgery eye care services for the patient.

Early and consistent eye care treatment is extremely important to maintain proper vision. It’s equally important to know the difference between an optometrist and ophthalmologist, so you know which eye care professional to schedule your next appointment with.

To learn more contact us today by calling, or book an appointment here.

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Having imperfect vision can make life very challenging, even if your eyesight isn’t that bad. The slightest vision problem can affect your ability to perform everyday tasks, whether it’s driving, running or reading. Because of this, you probably already have or will soon get yourself some prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses in Kitchener to aid your vision. However, choosing between the two can be difficult because of your lifestyle. The following are some of the benefits of using both to help you compare your options.

The Benefits of Eyeglasses

The following are a few reasons why you might want to consider picking up a pair of prescription eyeglasses:

• Eyeglasses are easy to use – You can easily put your glasses on and off. This means that if you don’t necessarily need eyeglasses to get through the day, you can just put them on whenever you actually need them, such as when you’re reading something or driving in your vehicle. This makes eyeglasses convenient to put on and off.
• Eyeglasses are easy to update – If your eye prescription changes, you can easily get new eyeglasses. If you like the frames you have, you can just have the lenses updated as well.
• Eyeglasses can be a fashion accessory – While the most important function of a pair of eyeglasses is to help aid your vision, they can also act as an accessory to your outfit. There are many different types of eyeglasses to choose from, some of which can be incredibly stylish.
• Anyone can wear them – It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, eyeglasses are an easy solution to help aid with problematic vision.

The Benefits of Contact Lenses

The following are a few reasons why contact lenses might be the right choice for you:

• Contact lenses won’t change your appearance – You won’t have to worry about how you look or whether they compliment your current attire since contact lenses don’t affect your appearance at all. No one will know you are wearing them.
• Contact lenses can be worn in more situations – If you play sports, then contact lenses are a great option since there’s little risk that they will be knocked out or damaged. There are many instances when eyeglasses get in the way, contact lenses illuminate all of that.
• Contact lenses aren’t affected by weather conditions – Your contact lenses won’t fog up like eyeglasses would when you come in from the cold weather into a warm room.
• Contact lenses can now correct almost all vision problems: Historically contacts could only be used to correct minor vision problems. But today they are now able to correct things like Myopia (short-sightedness), Hyperopia (long-sightedness), Astigmatism and Presbyopia (age-related reading problem).

As you can see, both eyeglasses and contact lenses in Kitchener have several benefits to consider. If you’re still having trouble deciding, eyeglasses vs. contact lenses give us a call, we’d be happy to go over all your options to help you make the best decision possible. Be sure to ask about our current promotions­–2 for 1 eyeglasses in Kitchener– by contacting us online at Vincent Optical or calling 519-744-7400

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Taking care of your eyes is important. Vision can change over the years, no matter your age, and without regular eye exams by an eye specialist in Kitchener, more specifically an optometrist, you may not have an updated prescription. Without the proper prescription, you may be squinting or straining to see properly, which can cause headaches and be dangerous for things like driving or playing sports. Optometrists don’t just test your vision; they also check the health of your eyes and look for conditions like eye disease and glaucoma. Look for the best optometrist in Kitchener, start by reading their online reviews to get a better feeling of whom you can trust. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends seeing your eye doctor at least once a year. But what exactly happens during your yearly eye exam? Let’s take a closer look at how optometrists test your eyes.

The Necessary Questions

Your optometrist will start your eye exam by asking several questions to determine if there are any issues they will have to explore. Some of these questions include:

• Is there any family history of eye disease?
• Do you ever get headaches during the day?
• Do you wear glasses or contacts and do they seem to work sufficiently?
• Do you take any medications?
• Do you or anyone in your family have diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure?

The Vision Portion

If you already have them, your optometrist will ask you to wear your current glasses or contacts and use an instrument called a phoropter to test how well you see. They will use different images and symbols usually projected on a wall in front of you, and change different lenses on the phoropter until they find one that works best. This is what determines your prescription. During this portion of the exam, your optometrist will also evaluate the muscles of the eye, by tracking your eye’s movements when asked to perform specific exercises.

The Health of the Eye

Next, your optometrist might give you a numbing drop to help test the pressure of your eyes. They will also use multiple light instruments to evaluate the front and inside of your eyes. Dilating eye drops make this portion easier.

The Results

At the end of your exam, your doctor will go over all their findings with you. If you need glasses or contacts, different options will be shown to you as well as contact lens education if you’ve never used them before or would like to try them for the first time.

An annual eye exam with an eye specialist in Kitcheneris an essential part of taking care of your health. Remember to look for the best optometrist in Kitchener by reading some of their reviews; it’s a good indication of their skills and quality of service. You can read some of our recent ones here.

Feel free to call or click here to book an appointment for a no-obligation consultation.  Ask about our 2 for 1 eyeglass special as well!

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Eyeglasses can be expensive, but if you need them, they’re necessary to see properly. It may be tempting to buy a cheap pair of glasses online or in some super store, but there are several different reasons why this may not be a good idea. Let’s take a look at why buying your eyeglasses from a professional at an optical store in Kitchener or a town near you is a better option than ordering them from a discount store or website.

Custom Fit

An optometrist is trained in fitting, measuring and manufacturing eyeglasses, so you’re sure to get a perfect fit. When you order discount glasses online, you are choosing between a general size of frames and measuring the distance between your pupils yourself. This can lead to many problems since your pupil measurement is crucial for deciding on many different factors in your new glasses. Such as:

• The size of the frame
• The shape of the frame
• The curvature of the lenses
• The material of the lenses
• The coating on the lenses
• The height of the optical center of the lens
• The adjustments of the frame to your face

When you order glasses online, you’re essentially gambling on the fit.

Made For Your Lifestyle

When you order glasses online, no optometrist is asking you questions about your lifestyle. For example, if you have a job that requires you to be outside the majority of the day, you may need special lenses that reflect the sunlight. Or if you are very active and frequently participate in sports, or work with hazardous materials or equipment you may need a particular frame that is made to withstand a lot of physical activity and abuse.

Proper Vision

Having glasses that don’t fit properly don’t just look awkward, they can cause you to see awkwardly as well. Glasses that don’t fit right or don’t have the proper lenses for your vision needs can cause you to get headaches, eye fatigue, nausea or pain, even leaving unwanted pressure marks around your nose.

Quality Eyeglasses

The phrase “You get what you pay for” is especially true when it comes to cheap eyeglasses. When you purchase glasses fitted by an optometrist in an optical store in Kitchener, you know you will be getting high-quality frames and lenses that are specifically formulated for your eyes and face. Eyeglasses should be considered an investment. You are investing in your eyesight, one of your most valuable and sensitive senses you have and you don’t want to do anything that would jeopardize the health of your eyes.

To ensure you purchase the right eyeglasses, visit our optical store in Kitchener and browse the hundreds of frames and choices to fit your needs. Feel free to call or click here to book an appointment for a no-obligation consultation.  Ask about our 2 for 1 eyeglass special as well!

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Most of us take our eyes for granted. Those of us lucky enough to have healthy eyes that allow us to see the world around us clearly may not realize how difficult life would be if that changed. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your eyes. And one of the essential steps in doing that is to see your optometrist every year. So while you’re searching for the best optometrist in Kitchener, let’s take a look at why you should be seeing them at least every twelve months.

Vision Correction

As we age, our eyes and our vision changes. Even if you’ve had perfect vision your whole life, there is still a chance that it could change at any time. Your optometrist checks your vision at every appointment and will recommend the appropriate solution of eyeglasses or contact lenses if needed. If you currently use corrective glasses or contact lenses, and according to the Canadian Association of Optometrists , 60% of people do, its common for your prescription to fluctuate over the years. Using an old out of date prescription could lead to further vision problems, as well as headaches and other related issues such as neck pain.

Preventative Care

A yearly eye exam is not just to evaluate your vision. Your optometrist will also examine the overall health of your eyes. During your appointment, your doctor will use different equipment and tools to look for things like glaucoma, cataracts, detached retinas and any other abnormalities of the eye. If they discover any problems, they may refer you to an ophthalmologist.

Using Dialation

During your yearly appointment with your optometrist, your doctor will use eye drops made specifically to cause your pupils to dilate. The drops will allow them to fully see your optic nerve and retina and asses them accurately. This can help catch issues before they lead to further damage or even vision loss. The drops are not painful, and the effects usually wear off in about four to six hours.

Choosing the Appropriate Eyeglasses

Once you’ve received your yearly exam and acquired an updated prescription for eyeglasses or contacts, your optometrist can help you find the ones right for you. It might be tempting to buy inexpensive glasses online, but by doing that, you run the risk of wearing glasses that fit incorrectly or have the wrong type of lenses for your eyes.

Once you’ve found the best optometrist in Kitchener, be sure to keep your yearly appointments. To find out more call or book an online appointment now.

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Are you wondering why your optometrist or eye specialist sometimes dilates your eyes during an eye examination? Well, it’s to protect your health. A standard eye exam in Kitchener, that does not include dilating your eyes, is used primarily to detect and manage vision problems, but it does not provide a thorough look at the overall health of your eyes. Dilating your eyes gives your optometrist a better look at your entire eye area.

What Is Eye Dilation?

An optometrist uses specialty eye drop to help to dilate your eyes. It takes about 15 to 30 minutes to fully dilate your eye. This will open your eyes wider and provide more light for the doctor to see the back of each eye, including the retina and optic nerve. Eye dilation allows for a more comprehensive examination of your eyes. Your vision may appear blurry for up to two to six hours after your eyes are dilated, so it is recommended to have someone drive you home.

Why Dilate Your Eyes?

Eye dilation allows your optometrist to perform a complete checkup of your eyes. During this comprehensive eye examination, your doctor may be able to detect several types of potentially dangerous health conditions, such as diabetes, glaucoma, retinal detachment, macular degeneration, high blood pressure, vascular disease, high cholesterol, and some types of infectious diseases.

In many cases, the eye doctors can detect these medical conditions even before your own physician can. This allows for early detections, which means you can obtain early treatment to help fight the disease and prevent it from intensifying. Early detection can not only help prevent future vision loss, but it can literally save your life.

Your optometrist may not dilate your eyes at every single visit. Remember, that eye dilation is not necessary for prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses. Your optometrist will take several factors, such as your age, health history, risk factors, and the reason for eye examination into account when determining whether to dilate your eyes or not. It is recommended to discuss this issue with your optometrist to get a better understanding of why your eyes may, or may not, be dilated during your eye exam.

Feel free to call or click here to book an appointment for an eye exam in Kitchener or a no-obligation consultation with an eye specialist.  Ask about our 2 for 1 eyeglass special as well!

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Choosing the right sunglasses in Kitchener Waterloo can be a bit of a challenge. While it’s true that they are an accessory that should fit your own personal style, that’s not the only factor that you should consider. The following are a few other factors that you should keep in mind when choosing sunglasses in Kitchener Waterloo:

• UV protection – Sunglasses aren’t just supposed to help block out the harsh light and glare of the sun, they’re supposed to protect your eyes from the sun’s UVB and UVA rays. Look for a pair that blocks at least 99 percent of UVB rays and 95 percent of UVA rays. If you’re going to outdoors for long periods of time, consider a pair that are polarized as well for added protection.
• Coverage – Everyone’s face is shaped differently, which means that different pairs of sunglasses may provide more or less coverage for you. When you try the sunglasses on, pay attention to whether you can see around the frames, whether it’s to the sides or at the top or bottom. If you can, the sunglasses aren’t big enough.
• Durability – Sunglasses often have fragile coatings, so be sure to look for a pair that advertises scratch resistance. For the most durable lenses, look for NXT polyurethane lenses, which are impact-resistant, lightweight, and flexible.
• Style – There are many different styles of sunglasses to choose from, including mirrorshades, aviators, wayfarers, teashades, oversized, and more. The best way to choose a style that suits your look is by matching the shape of the sunglasses to the shape of your face. For example, if you have a square face, try round sunglasses. If you have a round face, go with square sunglasses. For a long face, choose wider, rectangular glasses.
• Fit – It won’t matter if your sunglasses are the perfect style if they keep falling off your face. When trying on sunglasses, make sure that they stand on the bridge of your nose and ears. They shouldn’t lean to either side, nor should they pinch around your head.

These are some helpful tips that should help you pick out the perfect pair of sunglasses in Kitchener Waterloo that will not only fit your stylistic sensibilities, but that will also help to do what they are supposed to do–protect your eyes. If you’re in need of a new pair of sunglasses, be sure to visit us at Vincent Optical today.

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The optometrist (also known as the eye doctor or eye specialist) is not someone that you probably make a concerted effort to see on a regular basis. For some reason, a lot of people will make it a point to go see their physician regularly even if nothing is wrong with them–yet they don’t make that same effort with their optometrist. The problem is that when your vision begins getting worse, you often won’t be able to tell. It’s why you should go see your optometrist in Kitchener at least once a year for a basic checkup.

However, if you notice any of the following issues, then you should be sure to schedule an appointment with an optometrist in Kitchener right away:

• You are experiencing blurry vision – One of the signs that your vision is getting worse that’s easiest to spot is blurry vision. If your vision is getting blurry, it probably means that you need glasses.
• You are experiencing flashing lights or small shadows – These symptoms require immediate attention as they could indicate that there is a tear, hole or even a full retinal detachment in your eye.
• You are squinting regularly – Squinting is probably the most common symptom of failing vision. People squint when they are unable to read or see something because it helps to sharpen their focus. But if you have to do this, it means that your vision isn’t good enough when you’re not squinting.
• Fatigue or pain in your eye – Although fatigue or pain in the eyes can sometimes be the result of a lack of sleep or allergies, it could also be a symptom of deteriorating vision. If it hurts to move your eyes like you normally would or are feeling fatigue in your eyes for more than a few days in a row, then you should have it looked at.
• Regular headaches – It can often take a long time to notice that your vision is deteriorating. However, if you begin having regular headaches (and you never experienced regular headaches before), then it could indicate that this is exactly what is happening.

These are some of the signs that you should go see an optometrist in Kitchener as soon as you can. However, even if you’re not having issues, make sure to schedule a routine appointment at least once a year, starting today. To book an eye exam in Kitchener, contact us at Vincent Optical and be assured of the best professional care for your eyes!

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When it comes to protecting your eyes while you’re outdoors, almost everyone knows that wearing sunglasses in Kitchener Waterloo or anywhere for that matter, during the summer season is a smart thing to do. However, even though we associate summers with bright sunshine and glare, it can actually get a lot worse during the winter season. As a result, it’s important that you take extra precautions to protect your eyes once winter comes and snow is all around.

Why Your Eyes Need Winter Protection
First of all, a lot of people assume that because it’s not that bright outside during the winters as a result of overcast skies that their eyes don’t need protection. However, UV rays still make their way through the clouds, they just can’t be seen. Overexposure to UV rays can cause all kinds of degenerative eye problems, even as serious as cataracts or glaucoma. Additionally, when the sun does come out, it can be a lot harsher. This is because its rays reflect off the snow, causing a far more intense glare.

Protecting Your Eyes During The Winter
The following are a few effective ways that you can make sure that your eyes have the protection they need during the winter seasons here in the Kitchener Waterloo region:

• Wear sunglasses in Kitchener and Waterloo – UV-A or UV-B Sunglasses will help protect your eyes against UV-ray exposure. They will also help reduce the glare caused by sunlight. Make sure that you drive with sunglasses on if it’s a particularly sunny day and the streets are covered in snow to prevent glare from bouncing off the snow and causing vision problems as you drive.
• Wear a hat – If you don’t have access to your sunglasses, a hat can still be effective at blocking UV rays and helping to eliminate direct glare from the sunlight. The wider the brim of your hat is, the better.
• Wear eye protection – If you’re outdoors blowing or shovelling snow or especially when participating in winter sports, then make sure you protect your eyes with safety goggles. Ice and debris can be resting in the snow and kick in the wind as you are active outdoors. If you’re not wearing eye protection, such debris could cause serious damage if it hits you in the eye.

Now that winter season is here, make sure that you protect your eyes when you’re outdoors. If you need a new pair of sunglasses in Kitchener Waterloo, make sure to contact us at Vincent Optical or schedule an appointment today.

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