What is Pupillary Distance and Why is it Important?
Your PD, or pupillary distance, is the measurement between the centre of your pupils.
Pupillary distance (PD) is measured in millimetres (mm) and is very important when ordering lenses for individuals with strong prescriptions or varifocal lenses. This is because the pupillary distance (PD) must be taken into consideration for an accurate and clear vision. For varifocal lenses, the optical centre of the lenses must be aligned precisely with the wearer’s PD. This is why the pupillary distance measurement is essential for those with strong prescriptions or for those ordering varifocal lenses.
The inter-pupillary distance (PD) for most individuals typically falls between 55mm and 72mm, though some individuals may have smaller or larger PD. In 1988, the US Army surveyed 4,000 service personnel, finding the average PD for women to be 62mm and 64mm for men.
As a result, we have established the default pupillary distance (PD) of 63mm for all individuals. This will allow us to ensure accurate measurements and provide customers with the best possible experience. This decision was made after extensive research and discussions with industry professionals. We believe that this will be the most beneficial way to ensure accuracy and customer satisfaction for lower prescription lenses.
It is essential to have an accurate measurement of your Pupillary Distance (PD) if your prescription is strong, as this will minimize the risk of experiencing any uncomfortable side effects, such as headaches, eye strain or fatigue. Having an accurate PD measurement is important as it helps to ensure that your glasses are properly aligned so that your vision is optimally corrected.
If your prescription is not particularly strong, then the average pupillary distance should be more than enough to ensure that your vision is accurately corrected without any problems. However, it is important to ensure that the pupillary distance is accurately measured, as a wrong measurement can lead to vision issues. This can be easily avoided by visiting an optician, who can accurately measure the pupillary distance and ensure that your vision is correctly adjusted.
The size of your pupillary distance can vary based on the distance of the object being viewed. Humans, as hunter-gatherers, developed the ability to see clearly from long distances. Accordingly, our eyes are designed to be most comfortable and least strained when both eyes are looking straight ahead and are parallel. Nevertheless, when viewing objects that are closer, the pupillary distance narrower.
What would indicate a need for precise PD measurement?
Generally, it is recommended to obtain an accurate PD measurement if either eye’s SPH value exceeds 5.00 or the CYL value is more than 2.50. Varifocal glasses necessitate an accurate PD regardless of prescription values. In certain scenarios, an accurate PD is required, although rest assured that it is a straightforward process.
How to get your PD?
Your optician will have measured your PD in the eye examination, though they do not routinely provide this when they supply your prescription details. Some opticians will be happy to let you know your pupillary distance, though most will refuse or charge you for providing it.
In order to ensure accuracy and precision in a PD measurement, it is essential that it be conducted by an experienced and qualified professional. If the necessary PD measurement is not provided by the supplier, it is not recommended that you attempt to measure it yourself using a mirror or have an untrained person measure it for you. Such attempts can lead to inaccurate results. It is best to contact a qualified optician or optometrist who has the training and tools necessary to make a precise measurement. A precise PD measurement is essential to ensuring a high-quality, comfortable fit of eyewear and a safe, effective vision.