After going through your vision test, debating on countless frames, and waiting in anticipation, you finally have your new pair of glasses. You place them on and then...your entire environment looks distorted and “curved”. What happened, and how can you fix it?

In This Article...

1. Why is my vision off with my new glasses?
2. Are there any side effects to the fishbowl effect?
3. How do you fix the fishbowl effect with new glasses?
4. What if the curved vision does not change after a few weeks?

Why is my vision off with my new glasses?

Rest assured, this is a regular part of the process. When you wear glasses for the first time or receive an updated prescription, you may see curved or bent images along the edges of your glasses, known as the fishbowl effect. In some instances, you may also have issues with your depth perception, meaning that some things will appear closer or farther away depending on what angle you look through. Both of these occurrences are normal as your eyes and brain adjusting to your new vision.

Are there any side effects to the fishbowl effect?

Distorted vision may cause some unexpected side effects, particularly during the first part of your adjustment period. This may include:

• Eye strain
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness

How do you fix the fishbowl effect with new glasses?

Unfortunately, this visual dilemma cannot be fixed immediately, as your eyes and brain are still training to recognize the sights through your glasses. The best remedy is to use your glasses as often as possible to reduce the adjustment period (which can run from a few days to at least two weeks). If you are a contact lens user, it may be best to be consistent and use your glasses more often rather than switching back and forth frequently.

What if the curved vision does not change after a few weeks?

As mentioned, the adjustment period for new glasses lasts for a few weeks. If after that time you notice that the fishbowl effect has not changed, it is advised to follow up with your eye doctor. They can determine if the issue is due to your prescription, the structure of the glasses, or if there is an underlying medical issue affecting your vision. At CEENTA, our team of eye care providers can offer all of these remedies at nearly twenty locations in the Carolinas along with our optical shops at select locations.

Whether you’re looking for new glasses or need help with your current pair, schedule your appointment with CEENTA online, through myCEENTAchart, or by calling 704-295-3000.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician. To make an appointment with a CEENTA eye doctor, you may schedule online, through myCEENTAchart, or by calling 704-295-3000.