Buying glasses online may seem like a convenient, budget-friendly solution—but many patients quickly discover the drawbacks. At Buena Vista Optical in Chicago, we regularly help patients who’ve had disappointing experiences with online eyewear. From poor fit to inaccurate prescriptions, the challenges often outweigh the convenience.
Before you click "order now," it’s important to understand how online purchases can affect your vision, comfort, and overall eye health—and why professional care makes a difference.
Poor Fit Can Affect Your Vision and Comfort
- Frames that slide down your nose
- Arms that pinch or feel too loose
- Lenses that sit too high or low on your face
Even slight misalignments can lead to headaches, eye strain, or worsened symptoms for patients with dry eye. At Buena Vista Optical, we offer in-person frame fittings to ensure your glasses are comfortable and positioned correctly for optimal clarity.
We also invite you to explore our eyewear collections in Chicago and try on frames before making a decision.
Accuracy Matters: Prescription Errors Are Common Online
- Off-center lenses
- Incorrect prescriptions
- Poor results with multifocal or progressive lenses
At Buena Vista Optical, we use advanced optical technology to ensure your prescription is precise and personalized. Our licensed opticians work directly with you to take accurate measurements and recommend the best lens type for your needs.
No Professional Advice = Risk of Choosing the Wrong Lenses
When ordering glasses online, you're on your own to decide:
- Whether you need anti-glare or blue-light protection
- Which lens thickness is appropriate for your prescription
- If specialty lenses like photochromic or polarized are right for your lifestyle
Without guidance, it’s easy to make choices that compromise your comfort or visual performance. Our team offers face-to-face support to help you select lenses that fit your lifestyle, from screen use to outdoor sports.
AOA Warns Consumers About Online Vision Tests
The American Optometric Association (AOA) recently issued a Consumer Health Alert, cautioning patients not to rely on online vision tests. These platforms often fail to detect underlying eye conditions that can develop without symptoms.
The AOA recommends asking the following before using online services:
- Is the vision test FDA-approved?
- Can you consult with a licensed eye care provider?
- Does the platform evaluate eye health or just visual acuity?
At Buena Vista Optical, our comprehensive eye exams detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease—conditions that online tools simply can’t screen for.
Complicated Returns and Unclear Warranties
- Short return windows
- Store-credit-only policies
- Delayed customer service
If your glasses don’t fit or the prescription is incorrect, you're left with the hassle of returns or replacements. At Buena Vista Optical, we offer in-office adjustments and dedicated follow-up care to ensure your glasses are performing as expected.
Online Glasses Can Cost You More in the Long Run
Patients frequently end up paying for:
- Replacing low-quality frames
- Re-lensing incorrect prescriptions
- Multiple adjustments or repairs
We provide affordable eyewear options that balance quality, style, and value—backed by expert guidance to ensure satisfaction from the start.
Choose Chicago Eye Care You Can Count On
Eyewear is about more than just vision correction—it’s about comfort, performance, and long-term eye health. At Buena Vista Optical, we deliver full-service eye care in Chicago, including contact lens fittings, eye disease management, and stylish, durable glasses for every age.
Whether it’s your first pair of glasses or you need to update your prescription, our friendly team in Chicago is here to support your vision journey.
Book an Appointment Today
Don’t settle for one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to your eyes. Schedule your eye exam online or call us at 773-863-3311 to speak with our team.
See better. Feel confident. Shop smarter—with Buena Vista Optical in Chicago.