Q. What is the difference between the standard lenses and the 1.6 thin lenses? My prescription in Right Eye -3.50 Sph,  -0.25 CYL, 94 Axis  and Left Eye is -4.00 Sph, -0.50 CYL and 110 axis. Which lenses would you recommend?

A. The standard lenses are made of plastic and have a 'refractive index' of 1.5.  This is a measure of the 'light bending' power of the material. The higher the refractive index, the more powerful the light bending effect is of the lens. Thus, lenses with higher refractive indexes can be thinner and lighter than standard lenses.   For your prescription, we would recommend a 1.6 thin lens or a 1.67 very thin lens if you would like it to be as light as possible. A 1.74 lens would be slightly lighter still, but you are unlikely to notice any advantage over the 1.67 lens, and so it is un-necessary expense for you.   If you are choosing a rimless or half frame, then the 1.67 lens will have the thinnest looking edge and so will look better. If you have a full frame, then the 1.6 lens will suffice in terms of looks as the edge will be hidden. However, the 1.67 lens will be noticeably thinner.   Our 1.67 lenses are superbly priced and likely tosave you well over £100 compared to the SAME lens in the high street.    
        2009-09-06

Q. I have been told that I can't have laser surgery because I have astigmatism. Is that true, as I have seen on some information sites that astigmatism can be treated with laser?

A. It really depends on a number of factors. Reasonable leveles of astigmatism can be treated with laser if associated with significant refractive error and symptoms. However, very high degrees of astigmatism, coupled with some other factors that may be in play, may preclude laser treatment.   You should see an Ophthalmologist experienced in laser refractive and corneal surgery for further information.
Jake Fagan  Finchley      2009-09-06