Dangerous Myths About Ordering Glasses On-line

The Internet is wonderful in many ways. But it can also be the source of misleading—even dangerously misleading “facts.” At McNelly Optical in Annapolis, we are particularly concerned about Internet articles—usually written by paid bloggers with no optical experience—that lure you to purchase eyewear online because of “huge savings” or false promises of comparable quality and service.

Let’s take a few minutes to focus on 5 of the most dangerous myths peddled by certain online eyewear services:

DANGEROUS MYTH #1: Online services offer adequate eye-care quality and safety

According to a recent article published by the American Optometric Association, there is a serious question about the quality and safety of prescription eyewear ordered online.

“In a recent study,” the Association reported, “researchers discovered that nearly half of all glasses (44.8 percent) ordered online either contained an inaccurate prescription or didn’t meet safety standards designed to protect the eyes.” In this study, 100 patients ordered 2 pairs of glasses each from the top 10 on-line optical sites, resulting in 200 pairs of glasses to be evaluated for accuracy.

The results were extremely worrisome. Several eyeglasses were incorrectly made, offering single vision when bifocals were needed. Others featured incorrect lens treatments.  Nearly 30% had at least one incorrect lens, and 25% failed impact-resistance testing, raising safety concerns.

DANGEROUS MYTH #2: Online services offer comparable service

The problems highlighted above reveal the dangers of trusting your vision to “cookie-cutter” online optical services. Unlike online retailers, highly trained professionals at McNelly Optical provide personalized service, ensuring the best fit and accuracy.  Your ability to see accurately and precisely are our top priorities.

DANGEROUS MYTH #3: Online services offer “huge savings”

Many online eyewear articles promising “huge savings” are written by authors with no optical expertise. McNelly Optical's research shows that while its prices can be somewhat higher than that of on-line or big box retailers—our customers feel they receive excellent value-for-the-dollar based on the quality of our products and the customer service that we offer in our optical stores in Annapolis.

Even if you save money online, hidden costs such as inaccurate prescriptions, improper measurements, low-quality materials, and lack of protection can make online eyewear a risky investment.

DANGEROUS MYTH #4: Ordering eyewear online is as easy as ordering blue jeans

Ordering eyewear from distant online vendors can lead to reliability and quality-control issues. A study found that 23% of ordered glasses never even arrived. Would you order a book if there was a 1 in 4 chance it wouldn’t be delivered?

DANGEROUS MYTH #5: Online services assure a great look and proper fit

The Wall Street Journal reported that buying eyewear online can result in poor fit, especially for people needing high prescription corrections. Online retailers may have limited frame selection.

McNelly Optical offers an unparalleled eyewear collection, ensuring quality, style, and the perfect fit for your prescription.

The Bottom Line

Your eyesight is too precious to trust to online services that offer questionable eyecare. For real professionals who care about your vision, visit McNelly Optical—trusted by Annapolitans since 1929!