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Reading Glasses 101: Dos & Don’ts

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:22:01 GMT

Reading glasses are a simple yet essential tool for millions of people experiencing changes in their vision, especially as they age. Whether you’re new to reading glasses or looking to improve your experience, understanding how to choose, use, and care for them can make a big difference in both comfort and eye health.

Here’s a helpful guide to the dos and don’ts of reading glasses to ensure you’re getting the most out of them.

DO: Get Your Eyes Checked Regularly

Even if you’re buying over-the-counter reading glasses, it’s important to have regular eye exams. An eye doctor can:

Determine the correct lens strength
Check for underlying eye conditions
Ensure your vision changes are normal

Regular checkups help protect your long-term eye health and ensure you’re using the right prescription.

DO: Choose the Right Strength

Reading glasses come in a variety of magnification levels, typically ranging from +1.00 to +3.50 or higher.

To find the right strength:

Test different lenses with reading material
Start with the lowest strength that works
Avoid using lenses that are too strong, which can cause eye strain

Choosing the correct strength helps reduce fatigue and improves clarity.

DO: Consider Comfort & Fit

Comfort matters just as much as vision. Poorly fitting glasses can slip, pinch, or cause discomfort over time.

Look for:

Lightweight frames
Proper nose bridge fit
Comfortable temple arms

A well-fitting pair ensures you can wear your glasses for extended periods without irritation.

DO: Use Them for Their Intended Purpose

Reading glasses are designed for close-up tasks, such as:

Reading books or screens
Sewing or crafting
Reviewing documents

Using them appropriately ensures optimal performance and reduces eye strain.

DON’T: Use Reading Glasses for Driving

Reading glasses are not meant for distance vision. Wearing them while driving or walking around can blur your surroundings and create safety risks. Always remove your reading glasses when you’re done with close-up work.

DON’T: Ignore Eye Strain or Headaches

If you experience discomfort, headaches, or blurred vision while using reading glasses, it may be a sign that:

The strength is incorrect
You need a prescription adjustment
There’s an underlying vision issue

Don’t ignore these symptoms—consult an eye care professional if problems persist.

DON’T: Rely on One Pair for Everything

Different tasks may require different strengths or types of lenses. For example:

Computer work may need a different magnification than reading a book
You may benefit from multiple pairs in different locations

Having the right glasses for each activity can improve comfort and efficiency.

DON’T: Wait Too Long to Replace Them

Reading glasses don’t last forever. Over time, lenses can become scratched, and your vision may change.

Replace your glasses if:

You notice decreased clarity
The lenses are damaged
Your prescription has changed

Up-to-date glasses ensure you’re seeing clearly and comfortably.

Access Modern Reading Glasses With the Help of Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC

Reading glasses are a convenient and effective way to improve close-up vision, but using them correctly is key to getting the best results. By following these dos and don’ts, you can enhance your comfort, protect your eyes, and make everyday tasks easier.

If you're interested in learning more about reading glasses, we urge you to contact one of the knowledgeable representatives at Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC . Even if you would like to pick up a new pair to suit your style, our optical provider has got you covered every step of the way. We provide versatile support across Buffalo and the rest of Western New York.

Types of Contact Lenses

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:44:31 GMT

A Complete Guide for Clear Vision

Contact lenses have transformed how millions of people see the world — offering a comfortable, convenient alternative to glasses and freeing wearers from frames without compromising vision quality. At Buffalo’s Best Opticians , we’re here to help you understand the many types of contact lenses available, so you can choose the best option for your lifestyle and visual needs.

Why Choose Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are small, prescription lenses worn directly on the eye’s surface to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Unlike glasses, contact lenses move with your eye and provide a full field of view without frames or reflections.

Whether you’re active, involved in sports, or simply want a glasses-free lifestyle, there’s likely a contact lens type designed for you. But before fitting you with contact lenses, our specialists start with a comprehensive eye exam — ensuring the perfect prescription and fit.

Primary Contact Lens Types

Contact lenses can vary by material, wear schedule, replacement schedule, and purpose. Below are the most common types of contact lenses you’ll encounter.

1. Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are the most widely prescribed type of contact lenses due to their comfort and ease of adaptation. Made from flexible, oxygen-permeable materials, soft lenses allow oxygen to reach the cornea and are generally easy for first-time wearers to use.

Subtypes include:

Daily Wear Soft Lenses – Worn during the day and removed at night.
Daily Disposable Lenses – Worn once and discarded daily — ideal for convenience and hygiene.
Planned Replacement Lenses – Replaced on a set schedule (bi-weekly or monthly).
Extended Wear Lenses – Designed for longer continuous use (sometimes up to several nights, per doctor’s advice).

Soft lenses can also correct specialized conditions, including dry eyes or astigmatism.

2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

Also known as hard contact lenses, RGP lenses are made of firm, oxygen-permeable materials and offer exceptionally clear vision and durability. While they may require a short adaptation period, RGP lenses often provide sharper vision, especially for people with astigmatism or irregular corneal shapes.

3. Specialty Contact Lenses

Beyond soft and RGP lenses, there are specialized contact lens types designed for specific visual needs:

Toric Lenses: For correcting astigmatism.
Multifocal & Bifocal Contacts: For people who need both near and distance vision correction.
Hybrid Lenses: Combine a rigid center with a soft outer skirt for greater comfort with sharper vision.
Scleral Lenses: Large lenses resting on the sclera, ideal for irregular corneas or dry eye conditions.

4. Cosmetic & Colored Contact Lenses

Colored or cosmetic contact lenses enhance or change your eye’s natural look — but these still require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye care professional. Never purchase decorative lenses without a valid prescription, as unsafe products can cause serious eye complications.

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for You

Selecting the right type of contact lenses isn’t just about comfort — it’s about eye health. Your eye doctor will consider your prescription, lifestyle, eye shape, and whether you prefer daily disposables or planned replacements. At Buffalo’s Best Opticians , we provide thorough contact lens fittings, professional advice on contact lens types, and ongoing support to ensure you enjoy the clearest, healthiest vision possible.

Start Your Search for Contact Lenses in Buffalo, NY

Ready for a world without glasses? Schedule your contact lens exam and fitting at Buffalo’s Best Opticians today. Our experienced opticians will help you explore your options, from everyday soft contacts to specialized lenses. We can tailor your contact lenses to your eyes and lifestyle. Contact us today to find out which contact lenses are right for you if you're in Buffalo or Kenmore, NY !

How to Store & Care for Contact Lenses in Hot Weather

Wed, 21 May 2025 11:49:13 GMT

Learn About Storing & Caring For Your Contacts in The Heat

Keeping your contact lenses in great condition during the hot summer months is essential for both your eye health and comfort. When the temperature rises, improper storage or handling can compromise your lenses, potentially irritating your eyes. By following a few straightforward tips, you can make sure your lenses remain safe and effective, no matter how hot it gets outside.

Proper Storage Tips for Hot Weather

Hot weather brings unique challenges for lens care, but we’ve got you covered. Always store your lenses in an appropriate contact lens case filled with fresh, multipurpose solution—not tap water or an old solution. Avoid placing your lens case in direct sunlight or leaving it in overly warm environments, like a parked car. High temperatures can cause the storage solution to evaporate, leaving your lenses dry and stiff. Additionally, make it a habit to clean your lenses properly each night. Rub and rinse them with solution as instructed, even if the lenses are designed for extended wear. Daily disposable lenses are a great option for summer if you want a care-free experience.

Handling Your Contact Lenses Safely

Wash your hands with soap and water before touching your lenses, drying them with a lint-free towel to prevent debris from depositing on the lenses. Be cautious after activities like swimming or sweating, as moisture and heat can make it easier for bacteria to contaminate your lenses. For extra protection, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV damage while also managing glare on bright, sunny days.

Signs Your Contact Lenses May Be Damaged

Extreme heat can sometimes alter the structural integrity of your lenses. If you notice that your lenses feel dry or uncomfortable, or if they appear warped, replace them immediately. Other signs to watch for include redness, blurry vision, or a gritty sensation in your eyes. These may indicate that your lenses are no longer safe to wear.

Protect Your Eyes This Summer

Taking care of your contact lenses during the summer isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s essential for your overall eye health. If you have any questions about your lenses or feel like it’s time for an eye check-up, we’re here to help. Call us to schedule an appointment at our Seneca St location at 716-822-1515 or our Delaware Ave location at 716-874-4119. At Buffalo’s Best Opticians LLC , we’ll work with you to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear all summer long.

Do Opticians Perform Eye Exams?

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:29:13 GMT

Everything You Need to Know About Eye Exams

At Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC , one of the most common questions we’re asked is whether opticians perform eye exams. It’s a great question and an important one, especially when considering your eye health. To provide some clarity, opticians primarily focus on filling prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses , assisting with fitting frames, and helping you choose the right eyewear products. However, opticians are typically not the professionals who conduct eye exams. That vital role belongs to an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Why Are Regular Eye Exams Important?

While opticians don’t perform eye exams, they play a key role in ensuring you receive quality eyewear based on your optometrist’s prescription. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining overall eye health and detecting potential issues early. During an eye exam, an optometrist evaluates not just your vision acuity but also the overall health of your eyes. This can include checking for common conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or cataracts, which often don’t show symptoms until they are advanced.

Eye exams are especially important for those with existing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, as these may impact your eyes over time. For children, routine eye exams are vital for identifying vision problems that could affect their learning or development. Ensuring clear vision during early childhood and adolescence can make a significant difference academically and socially.

How We Help at Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC

Although we don’t perform eye exams ourselves, we partner with trusted local providers to ensure you get the care you need. Once you have your prescription in hand, we offer a wide range of services to meet your eyewear and vision care needs. From the best prices on prescription eyeglasses to Blue Cross & Blue Shield and Medicaid optical services, we make quality eyewear accessible to all.

Our selection includes designer frames such as RayBan and affordable reading glasses. Whether you need contact lenses or are looking for frames that match your style, we’re here to help. By being a YourCare Vision Provider and Eyemed Vision Care Provider, we ensure that our customers in Buffalo, NY, can maximize their benefits.

Make Eye Health a Priority Today!

Your vision health is too important to overlook. If it’s time to schedule an eye exam, be sure to visit a qualified optometrist. Once you’ve got your prescription, come to Buffalo’s Best Opticians LLC for high-quality, affordable eyewear and personalized service. With our two convenient Buffalo locations, it’s easy to find exactly what you need. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or stop in to browse our frames and products. Your eyes deserve the best care!

Choosing the Right Glasses Frames

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:56:51 GMT

Things to Consider When Choosing Glasses Frames

Finding the perfect pair of glasses frames can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time glasses wearer. With so many options available online and in offices, it’s important to select frames that not only suit your face shape but also align with your personal style and daily needs. Whether you're shopping for reading glasses, casual wear frames, or high-quality options like RayBan frames, this guide will share different things to consider when choosing the right glasses frames for you.

Face Shape

When selecting glasses frames, understanding your face shape is an important first step. Different face shapes pair better with specific styles of frames to balance and highlight your features. For instance, individuals with round faces may benefit from angular frames that add definition, while those with square faces might opt for round or oval frames to soften their appearance. Heart-shaped faces often shine with frames that are wider at the top, and oval faces generally have the flexibility to match with most frame styles. Identifying your face shape can help narrow down your options and ensure the frames you choose will complement and enhance your facial features.

Personal Style

Your style says a lot about who you are. It’s always important to choose glasses that match your style, personality, and fashion sense. If you love timeless elegance, consider a classic or neutral type of frame. For those seeking something bold and contemporary, try bright colors or geometric shapes. Always remember that your glasses will be a staple accessory, so select a design that complements your wardrobe while expressing your unique personality.

Frame Fit

Comfort is key when it comes to glasses. You'll want to make sure that your frames are functional as much as they are stylish. For a proper fit, ensure that the bridge of the glasses rests snugly on your nose without pinching, the arms of the frames comfortably extend over your ears, and the lenses don’t overwhelm your face but still offer adequate coverage for your vision needs. If you're unsure whether a certain style fits you, your vision provider can measure your face and recommend the perfect frame size for your prescription eyeglasses.

Lifestyle Needs

Your lifestyle influences the type of glasses you should wear. For professionals, sleek and minimalistic designs may suit best, while active individuals might require durable and flexible frames. If you find yourself in front of screens often, lenses equipped with blue light filters can come in handy.

Visit Us for the Best Prices On Prescription Eyeglasses

At Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC, we proud to be a YourCare vision provider offering high-quality service and the best prices on prescription eyeglasses. Selecting the perfect pair of frames is both a functional and stylistic investment. By evaluating factors such as face shape, personal style, fit, and lifestyle, you can confidently select eyewear that looks great and feels comfortable. Explore our extensive collection of designer glasses frames online or visit our office to schedule an appointment. As a trusted Blue Cross & Blue Shield vision provider in Buffalo, NY, we are dedicated to meeting all your eyewear needs with professionalism and care.

Make the Most of Your Vision Insurance

proadAccountId-10306 — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 13:55:09 GMT

The Benefits of Having Vision Coverage with Blue Cross Blue Shield

Vision insurance will open a door of opportunities to not only maintain your optical health but improve your eye care treatments for years to come. Designed to be a type of supplemental insurance, your vision plan can help you cover and potentially eliminate costs associated with routine eye exams , glasses frames, contact lenses , and corrective surgeries.

When it comes to vision care providers, it is important to understand your options, benefits, and what you’re truly paying for. Whether you’re choosing between a private individual plan or an employer plan, the importance of cost savings and the coverage of an annual eye exam cannot be understated. Whether your family has a history of astigmatism or not, routine eye exam coverage is key to your long-term eye health.

As a trained and experienced optical practice, the team at Buffalo’s Best Opticians LLC are here not just to help you find the right prescription reading glasses or contacts but to help assess your overall eye health.

If you are experiencing eye pain, dry or red eyes, or want to update your prescription, the right vision insurance will let you access the best in optical health. At Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC, we are proud to accept a variety of vision insurance plans, including but not limited to YourCare Vision, Medicaid, Eyemed® , and BCBS. As a participating Blue Cross Blue Shield vision provider, we offer our patients the top prices on contact lenses, glasses frames, and exams.

If you have a plan from this insurance company, we would be happy to serve you from one of our three locations, which are in Kenmore, NY; Depew, NY; and Buffalo, NY.

If you are new to using vision insurance, we recommend starting by contacting Blue Cross Blue Shield. The best information about your insurance plan and benefits is from your insurance company. Some plans may include a free eye exam every two years, discounted eye exams, contact lens coverage, and the best prices on prescription eyeglasses.

To learn more about how we function as a Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Eyemed® , and YourCare vision provider and to schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact us today! We look forward to providing you with the highest quality eye care in Western New York.

Important Reasons to Have Vision Insurance

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 21:02:16 GMT

A vision plan is usually separate from your health and dental plans. It is designed to help reduce the costs that come along with vision care, including routine eye exams, prescription glasses or contact lenses, and other problems that may arise with your vision health. Some may wonder if they need to pay for vision insurance or if they can just pay out of pocket for the procedures as they need them. In many ways, vision insurance can provide you with other benefits, more than just getting routineeye exams. You should have vision insurance for:

Vision Health

Vision insurance helps promote great health. It is importantto schedule regular exams to stay up to date on your visual health. Eye examsare a preventive service, meaning most plans help cover some, or all, of thecosts. When you go see a doctor for an eye exam, not only will they determineyour vision needs, but they can help determine if you are in the early stagesof suffering from certain eye diseases including macular degeneration,glaucoma, cataracts, or other vision problems.

Overall Health

Not only will your doctor be able to detect visual changes and problems, but they may be able to detect other changes and medical problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and more. If you regularly attend the eye doctor and they notice something alarming, you could possibly save money in medical costs by catching the problems early on.

Cost Savings

Vision insurance typically covers the cost of routine eye exams, eyewear such as glasses & lenses, and sometimes even specialized treatments. This can result in significant savings compared to paying out-of-pocket, making vision care more affordable for individuals and families.

Quality of Life

Having good vision allows you to to do all of the daily activities you need to do, and enjoy doing, like driving, reading, and recognizing faces. This contributes to your overall well-being and independence. Vision insurance ensures you can maintain optimal vision at all stages of life, positively affecting your quality of life, whether you need reading glasses or specialized contact lenses.

Prescription Updates

Your vision can change over time which can potentially cause you headaches, eye strain, and difficulties with daily tasks. Having vision insurance supports regular eye exams to ensure that your glasses or contact lens prescriptions are current, optimizing your vision and comfort.

Specialist Access

Vision insurance plans like those from Medicaid or Blue Cross Blue Shield often provide access to a network of qualified optometrists and ophthalmologists, ensuring you receive the best care available. This network typically includes specialists for various eye conditions and surgical treatments.

Affordability

Vision insurance plans often include discounts on elective procedures such as LASIK surgery, which can be quite expensive. Having vision insurance can make these treatments more attainable, providing options for those who wish to permanently correct their vision.

Get in Touch With Our Team Today

At Buffalo's Best Opticians , we accept Blue Cross & BlueShield Vision Provider. BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York has been a trusted vision provider in the area for over 80 years. They offer a network of vision providers and vision benefits to make sure you are seeing and looking your best. Members with Blue Cross & Blue Shield can benefit from discounted costs on routine eye exams (including contact lens exams), frame discounts, discounted costs on several different contact lens options, and discounts for adults with Standard or Enhanced Vision Plans. When you need vision insurance, Blue Cross & BlueShield Vision Provider may be the right fit for you.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to a member of our team today.

How to Get the Best Value for Your Money on Eyeglasses

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 18:23:36 GMT

Find the Perfect Pair of Glasses With the Help of Buffalo’s Best Opticians

If you’re like most people, the minute you’re told that you’re going to need a new pair of glasses, you’re instantly looking for the best prices on prescription eyeglasses. However, keep in mind that eyeglasses aren’t a throwaway commodity. They’re an essential tool that you rely on everyday. The key isn’t to find the lowest price; it’s to find the best value for your money.

Here at Buffalo’s Best Opticians , we’ll help you do just that! As highly trained opticians, we have all the facts to help you make the best choice for your vision. Learn more about how we can help you find the right pair of reading glasses, glasses frames, or contact lenses below!

Work With an Optician That Accepts Your Insurance

This is the easiest way to make sure you’re getting value for money. After all, if you’re paying for vision insurance, you should get as much as you can out of it! Turning to Buffalo’s Best Opticians makes working your insurance benefits to the max even easier. We are a YourCare vision provider, a Blue Cross & Blue Shield vision provider, an EyeMedvision care provider, and a Medicaid optical provider. See the full list of insurance we accept here .

Don’t Shy Away From Designer Glasses Frames

It may seem counterintuitive but investing in designer glasses frames can actually be a great way to help you get the most out of your glasses. Why? You’ll be wearing your glasses every day. You want to make sure they flatter your face and help you express your personality. Designer glasses frames are literally designed to do just that. Here at Buffalo’s Best Opticians, we stock Coach frames, Versace frames, and more. You’ll be spoiled for choice!

Buy the Glasses You Really Need

It can be tempting to assume that since you’re only having a bit of trouble reading, all you need is a pair of reading glasses. While this can be a cheaper option in the short term, it might be more expensive in the long term. You want glasses that meet all your vision needs, so you won’t have to constantly replace them. Invest in quality upfront, so you don’t have to pay more down the road.

Consider a Second Pair

If you can afford it, buy a second pair at the same time you buy your first pair of glasses. As much as we try to take good care of our glasses, accidents happen. Glasses fall, break, and get lost. If you have a backup ready to go, you won’t have to replace the original pair in a hurry –which is a recipe for spending more than you wanted and getting less than you bargained for.

Receive the Best Prices on Prescription Eyeglasses in Buffalo, NY

When shopping for eyeglasses, getting the best value for your money starts with smart decisions about your purchase. Compare prices across retailers to find the best prices on prescription eyeglasses, reading glasses, and even Ray-Ban frames. Look for high-quality glasses frames made from durable materials that can handle daily wear and tear. Exploring online retailers can often reveal lower prices and promotions, while package deals can help you save if you need both glasses and contact lenses. By being a savvy shopper, you can find stylish, long-lasting eyewear at a price that suits your budget.

Thanks to our local team, it's never been easier to make the perfect glasses purchase. Once you're ready to receive the best prices on prescription eyeglasses, don't waste another moment; visit one of our convenient locations in the heart of the Buffalo, NY region.

For years, Buffalo's Best Opticians LLC has continued to provide a wide selection of the latest glasses frames, reading glasses, and contact lenses to hit the market. Even if you're not quite sure which products will properly enhance your vision, one of our knowledgeable representatives is constantly standing by to lend some helpful suggestions. Simply give us a call today to get started!