How often should I change my lenses or prescription?

08 January 2026

Many people assume they only need to change their glasses when they can no longer “see anything.” However, vision can deteriorate progressively and silently, causing you to adapt to poor vision without even realizing it. That’s why updating your glasses and prescription on time is key to maintaining good eye health and a good quality of life.

Your vision prescription is not forever

In general, it is recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year, even if you feel you see well. Your prescription can change for many reasons: prolonged screen use, the passage of time, hormonal changes, systemic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, or simply the natural evolution of vision.

In young adults, the prescription may remain stable for longer periods, but that doesn’t mean you should skip your checkups. In people over 40, changes tend to be more frequent due to presbyopia (difficulty seeing up close), a natural part of ocular aging.

How often should I change my glasses?

Even if your prescription hasn’t changed much, glasses also wear out. Ideally, they should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, as lenses can become scratched over time, lose anti-reflective coatings or UV protection, and affect visual quality without you noticing clearly.

In addition, ophthalmic lens technology is constantly advancing, offering better materials, screen filters, and greater visual comfort.

Signs you may need to check your prescription sooner

You don’t always have to wait a full year. You should see an ophthalmologist if you experience symptoms such as frequent headaches, eye strain, intermittent blurred vision, difficulty focusing, burning sensations, or discomfort at the end of the day. In children and adolescents, changes can occur more quickly, so checkups should be even more regular.

Contact lenses: more frequent checkups

If you wear contact lenses, follow-ups should be even more strict. The eye’s tolerance can change, and an improperly prescribed lens can cause dryness, infections, or ocular inflammation—even if you “see well” with them.

Seeing well is not just about comfort

Updating your prescription doesn’t just improve visual sharpness; it also prevents unnecessary eye strain and protects your eye health in the long term. A complete eye exam allows early detection of changes and timely action before they affect your daily life.

Remember: seeing well doesn’t always mean seeing healthy. Regular checkups are the best investment in your eye health. Schedule your appointment here.