Prism glasses are a special type of prescription glasses made to help your eyes work better together—especially if you see double. Instead of just making things clearer like regular glasses do, prism glasses gently shift the light entering your eyes so both eyes can focus on the same image.
Even though they look just like normal glasses from the outside, they include a tiny correction inside the lens that helps your brain see one single, clear picture—without confusion or discomfort.
How Do Prism Lenses Work?
To understand prism glasses, imagine your eyes are a team trying to look at the same target. Normally, both eyes aim at the same spot, and your brain combines the two images into one. But if your eyes don’t line up quite right—due to weak muscles, nerve issues, or an injury—you might see double.
That’s where prism lenses help. Instead of sharpening the focus like regular lenses, prism lenses bend the light slightly so that both eyes get the same image, even if they’re not perfectly aligned. This tricks your brain—in a good way—into seeing just one image again.
The amount of correction is measured in something called prism diopters, and your eye doctor will also figure out the direction of the shift—whether it needs to move the image inward, outward, upward, or downward. This makes sure the light lands in the right place for your eyes.
The best part? They look like any regular pair of glasses. But once you put them on, they can make a huge difference—especially if you've been dealing with double vision, eye strain, or trouble with depth perception.
Who Needs Prism Glasses?
Prism glasses are usually recommended for people who see double because their eyes aren’t working together quite right.
This can happen for different reasons—eye muscle issues, nerve problems, or even fatigue—but the result is often the same: tired eyes, trouble focusing, or feeling dizzy and off-balance. Prism lenses can help fix the problem without surgery or medication.
Common Signs You Might Need Prism Glasses
Here are some clues that prism glasses could be a good fit for you:
You sometimes see double, especially when reading or driving
Your eyes get tired or sore after long periods of focus
You find it hard to judge depth, like walking down stairs or parking the car
You often tilt your head to make your vision feel more comfortable
You get headaches or dizziness from screen time or close-up work
You feel a little off-balance when walking—even though things seem clear
You’ve been told you have strabismus or convergence insufficiency
If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth getting a full eye exam. Your optometrist can check how your eyes move and work together, then decide if prism lenses are the right fix for you.
Common Conditions Requiring Prism Correction
Prism glasses are often used when your eyes have trouble working together. This can happen for many reasons. Here are some of the most common ones:
Eye Turn (Strabismus)
One eye may drift slightly inward, outward, up, or down. Prism lenses help your eyes point in the same direction so you can see clearly.Difficulty Focusing Up Close
If your eyes struggle to team up when reading or using a screen, you might get blurry or double vision. Prism glasses make focusing easier and reduce strain.Double Vision (Diplopia)
Seeing two images instead of one? Prism lenses shift the image so your brain can combine them into a single picture.Stroke or Head Injury
After a stroke or concussion, your eyes might not line up like they used to. Prism lenses can help improve balance and visual comfort during recovery.Thyroid Eye Disease
A thyroid problem can cause swelling around the eyes, making them misaligned. Prism glasses help keep your vision stable.Vision Changes from Migraines
Some migraines cause temporary vision issues. Prism lenses can reduce discomfort during and after these episodes.
Types of Prism Solutions
Not all prism glasses are the same. Depending on your needs, your optometrist might suggest one of these:
Built-In Prism Glasses
These lenses have the correction made directly into them. They’re great for long-term use and look just like regular glasses.Stick-On Prism Glasses
These have a thin, clear layer placed over the lens. They’re often used if your vision is still changing or if you need a short-term solution.Special Glasses for Rehabilitation
Some people recovering from a stroke or injury need glasses that shift their whole field of vision. These are used under special guidance.
Which One Is Right for You?
You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Your optometrist will recommend the best option based on your symptoms, how long you’ll need the glasses, and what feels most comfortable for you.
Adjusting to Prism Glasses: 5 Practical Tips
Most people adjust to prism glasses quickly—but a little guidance can help make the process even smoother:
Start Slow
Wear your glasses indoors first for short periods, then gradually increase how long you wear them.Expect Some Discomfort at First
It’s normal to feel slightly dizzy or off-balance for a day or two. This should fade as your eyes adjust.Turn Your Head, Not Just Your Eyes
When looking around, try moving your head instead of just your eyes. It can help with the transition.Stick With Them
Switching back and forth between your old and new glasses will only slow down the adjustment.Book a Follow-Up If Needed
If things still don’t feel right after a week or so, check in with your optician. A small adjustment may be all you need.
FAQ: Your Top Prism Questions Answered
Can prism lenses be added to progressive or bifocal glasses?
Yes, they can. Whether you wear single-vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses, prism correction can be added. Your optometrist will make sure everything is lined up correctly for your eyes.
Will I have to wear prism glasses forever?
It depends. Some people only need them for a short time—like after surgery, a concussion, or a stroke. Others may need them long-term if their eye condition doesn’t go away. Your optometrist will check over time and adjust the plan if needed.
Do prism glasses look different from regular glasses?
No, they look just like regular glasses. Most people won’t notice any difference. Some short-term versions have a thin layer on the lens that’s only visible if you look closely.
Can prism lenses make you dizzy?
es, at first. You might feel a little dizzy, tired, or get a headache during the first few days. This is normal and usually goes away as your eyes adjust. If it doesn’t, your optician can help with a quick check or adjustment.
Ready to See Clearly and Comfortably?
If double vision, eye strain, or visual imbalance is getting in the way of your day, prism glasses might be the solution you didn’t know you needed.
At Chinook Optical, we take the time to understand your vision challenges and offer lens options tailored to your needs. Our experienced team will walk you through the process, fit your glasses for all-day comfort, and make sure you feel confident in your vision—wherever life takes you.
Let’s find a solution that feels right and works hard for your eyes.