An eyeglass prescription might seem complicated, but its basic fields are easy to read. Below we explain what the most common abbreviations mean and what information we need to correctly prepare your child's glasses.
The two eyes
The prescription includes separate values for each eye. OD or R refers to the right eye and OS or L to the left. Copy each value exactly as it is written, including the + or − symbol.
What do SPH, CYL and AXIS mean?
- SPH (Sphere): indicates the base power of the lens. A positive (+) value is used for hyperopia (farsightedness) and a negative (−) value for myopia (nearsightedness).
- CYL (Cylinder): refers to the correction of astigmatism.
- AXIS (Axis): indicates the direction of the astigmatism correction and is noted from 0° to 180°. If there is no CYL, the AXIS is usually left blank.
- ADD: additional power for near vision, when prescribed. It does not appear in all pediatric prescriptions.
- PRISM / BASE: are filled in only when a prismatic correction has been given.
The above information helps to correctly transfer the prescription to the order; it does not replace the explanation or instructions of your doctor.
The essential PD measurement
The PD (Pupillary Distance) is the distance between the centers of the pupils and is measured in millimeters. It can be provided as one total value or as two separate values, one for each eye.
We need the PD for every prescription glasses order so that the lenses can be correctly centered in the specific frame. The PD is often not written on the prescription itself, because it is a fitting measurement. You can ask your child's ophthalmologist or optometrist to measure it and provide it to you.
How to complete your order
- Select the frame that suits your child.
- Fill in or upload a clear photo of the valid prescription.
- Add the PD in millimeters, as a total or as a right/left value exactly as it was given to you.
- Check that the values for the right and left eye, the signs, and the axis have been entered correctly.
- Complete the order. If any information is missing or needs clarification, we will contact you before we proceed with the lenses.
For any questions regarding completing your order, the Kidoptic team is here to help.
