The Risks of Ordering Eyewear Online
Internet providers are not regulated and therefore are not held to the same standards that optometrists and opticians are held to under Manitoba legislation. In Manitoba, the Manitoba Association of Optometrists and the Opticians of Manitoba both regulate the dispensing of eyewear, ensuring the safety and accuracy of your eyewear. Research has found that almost half of the eyewear ordered online failed at least one parameter of optical or impact testing.
The Importance of Professional Eyewear Measurements
When ordering eyeglasses online, the consumer is taking on the role of a trained optical dispenser. This includes taking technical measurements and making critical decisions with respect to frame, lens, and material selection. Common complaints regarding improperly ordered or fit eyewear include headaches, fatigue, an "eye pulling" sensation, nausea, and pain or pressure marks on the nose or around the ears.
Safe Contact Lens Use Matters
Contact lenses are medical devices and lenses that don't fit correctly or are used improperly can cause serious damage to your eyes, including blindness in some cases. Many online sites, including those based in Canada, sell products that have not been approved by Health Canada and have not been tested for safety.