A. Ask! How long has that person been doing fittings? In general, someone with more than 5 years optical experience in independent stores or labs will usually have the knowledge to do the job correctly. Ask if they are an ABO Certified Optician. While this is not a sure-fire solution, it does demonstrate that this person made an effort to obtain minimum competency in their chosen profession, rather than someone just passing through the business on their way to a different career.

At McNelly Optical, we've made it easy! All of our employees are ABO Certified Opticians, with many years experience.

Q. Do progressive lenses work, or are they just a gimmick?

A. Progressive lenses work! They are the most sophisticated method of correcting presbyopia available, and work very well for the vast majority of people, but as in anything else; Caveat Emptor. There are over forty different progressive lens brands, some of them good, and some not so good. In general the best progressive lenses, fitted by a skilled optician, and understood by the patient will work and work well. Bargain progressives fitted by unskilled sales associates are hit and miss. Frequently a persons' inability to become accustomed and happy with progressive lenses can be attributed to poor fitting, the wrong lens for the prescription, lack of understanding about what a progressive lens is, poor wearing habits, or physical conditions which do not allow proper lens usage (ie. lack of eye muscle control). And for a small number of people, progressive lenses just don't fit their lifestyle.

Q. My friends have told me they couldn't get used to progressive lenses, or they were difficult to get used to; will I have problems?

A. Becoming accustomed to any new lens design, whether progressive lenses, bifocals, trifocals, and even lens materials can take a little time to get used to. Lens design/material accommodation is a very individual experience; different people, react differently. While one person has a lot of difficulty getting used to a new way of seeing things, another person has absolutely no trouble at all! Don't be guided by a friends experience, because you are a different person, with different habits, different lifestyle, and different tastes. Discuss your concerns with your optician, they will be better able to guide you through your options.

Q. I was told about a premium progressive lens brand, but when I went to discuss it I was told they didn't carry that brand; but, theirs was just as good. How do I know if this is true?

A. You don't! Unless you have researched progressive lens brands, it is hard to be sure whether their lens is as good as the premium lens you already know about. But there are several questions you can ask that will help you find out:

1) Are you a certified optician, and may I see your certificate?

2) On what basis of comparison do you make your statement? (How much experience do they have with the 40-some brands currently on the American Market.)

3) Have you fitted many of the competing brands?

4) How would you differentiate the performance characteristics of the lens I ask about, and the one you are recommending?

In general, TRUE Premium lenses are seldom discounted, heavily advertised, or available at bargain prices. Nor are they usually available at superstores. The manufacturers of Premium lenses are concerned with their reputation too; and only offer them into the hands of skilled opticians. Don't expect to find the very best at national retailers or chain stores.

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