Astigmatism describes an eye with a cornea that is oval shaped instead of round, causing light rays to hit the retina in more than one place. Eyeglass lenses compensate for an eye that is too long or too short by adding or subtracting focusing power. The lenses create just the right amount of focusing power so light rays focus directly on the retina. If a second and third number are present in the prescription, they indicate astigmatism. The higher the first number in the prescription, the greater the correction in the lens.
Lenses are available in glass, regular and high index plastic, and polycarbonate.
Although they scratch less easily, glass lenses tend to be heavier and often slide down the nose. Plastic and polycarbonate lenses are lighter and safer than glass but scratch easily. Scratches cannot be removed but they can be avoided or minimized with appropriate care. Scratch resistant coatings can be applied to plastic and polycarbonate lenses but some of these coatings crack if exposed to extreme heat or cold. Frames come in many shapes and sizes, so it is important to pick a frame that is best for you.