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How to read your glasses prescription

How to enter your glasses prescription

OD is an abbreviation for the Latin term oculus dexter which means right eye. Notice that the right eye information is asked for first even though we typically read from left to right.

OS is an abbreviation of the Latin oculus sinister which means left eye. That will be referenced on the far right column of the prescription.

SPH is short for sphere. The sphere of your prescription indicates the power on the lenses that is needed to see clearly. A plus (+) symbol indicates the eyeglass wearer is farsighted. A minus (-) symbol indicates that the eyeglass wearer is nearsighted.

CYL is short for cylinder. The cylinder indicates the lens power necessary to correct astigmatism. If the column has no value (is blank), it indicates that the eyeglass wearer does not have astigmatism. If this is the case on your prescription, you can leave it blank when entering it in.

AXIS is a prescription will include an axis value for those with astigmatism. This number represents the angle of the lens that shouldn't feature a cylinder power to help correct your astigmatism.

ADD is short for "additional correction." This is where details about bifocals, multifocal lenses or progressive lenses would appear.

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How to read your contacts prescription

How to enter your contacts prescription

OD is an abbreviation for the Latin term oculus dexter which means right eye. Notice that the right eye information is asked for first even though we typically read from left to right.

OS is an abbreviation of the Latin oculus sinister which means left eye. That will be referenced on the far right column of the prescription.

B.C. is short for base curve measurement indicates the back curvature of your contact lens, in millimetres. This is important for comfort, as the BC of your contact lenses should match your eye's natural curve as closely as possible to ensure a better fit when you are wearing your contact lenses.

DIA is short for "diameter," or the distance from one edge of the contact lens to the other. This is measured in millimeters.

SPH is short for sphere. The sphere of your prescription indicates the power on the lenses that is needed to see clearly. A plus (+) symbol indicates the eyeglass wearer is farsighted. A minus (-) symbol indicates that the eyeglass wearer is nearsighted.

CYL is short for cylinder. The cylinder indicates the lens power necessary to correct astigmatism. If the column has no value (is blank), it indicates that the eyeglass wearer does not have astigmatism. If this is the case on your prescription, you can leave it blank when entering it in.

AXIS is a prescription will include an axis value for those with astigmatism. This number represents the angle of the lens that shouldn't feature a cylinder power to help correct your astigmatism.

ADD is short for "additional correction." This is where details about bifocals, multifocal lenses or progressive lenses would appear.

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At ContactsExpress, we're committed to keeping your orders moving, even with potential Canada Post disruptions. We've secured alternative carriers to ensure your eyewear arrives quickly and reliably.
Our priority is minimizing delays and giving you the best shipping experience possible.
If you have any questions, our customer care team is here to help at [email protected] or 1-833-487-5487.
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$10K Canadian Getaway Giveaway
To show Canadians there's so much more to see, we're giving away a $10,000 getaway anywhere in Canada. One lucky winner will plan their dream vacation with flights, 5-star stays, unforgettable experiences, and a KITS shopping spree.
Every purchase made on Kits.com by October 31 will automatically receive 100 entries. For more ways to win, be sure to check us out on Instagram @kitseyecare.
Giveaway ends October 31, 2025 at 11:59 PM PT. Open to Canadian residents 18+. Prize details and inclusions are set by KITS and may be changed, substituted, or cancelled at any time. No cash value. No purchase necessary. Free entries available on Instagram.

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Measurements
If you already have a pair of glasses, you can compare the measurements to your current frame. Just look inside your temple to find your frame measurements. The overall frame size is a combination of lens and bridge's width measurements.
Lens Width Bridge Width Temple Length
XS < 42 mm < 16 mm <=128 mm
S 42 mm - 48 mm 16 mm - 17 mm 128 mm - 134 mm
M 49 mm - 52 mm 18 mm - 19 mm 135 mm - 141 mm
L >52 mm >19 mm >= 141 mm

Vancouver KITS Cafe & Eyewear

1500 Yew St, Vancouver, BC, V6K 3E4
(604) 548-7022
Service
Adult eye exam, Kids eye exam (18 and under), Seniors eye exam (ages 65+), Diabetic eye exam, Emergency eye exam
Meet our experts
Dr. Harpreet Lakhan
O.D. Optometrist
Dr. Lakhan grew up in Surrey, BC and earned his Doctor of Optometry from Pacific University College of Optometry. His clinical training focused on ocular disease and family eye care, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. He has a strong interest in vision therapy and improving quality of life through better functional vision. Outside the clinic, he enjoys time with his family, soccer, and the outdoors.
Dr. Gurchain Singh Nann
O.D. Optometrist
Dr. Nann is a Surrey-raised optometrist who earned his Doctor of Optometry from Salus University. His clinical training included hospital and primary care settings, with extensive experience diagnosing and managing glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, dry eye, and cataracts.
Amana Hedayat
Registered Optician
Amana is a detail-driven optician with a passion for precision and patient care. With deep experience in lenses and frame adjustments, she ensures every pair fits, performs, and feels great. Outside the clinic, she enjoys hiking and discovering hidden gems around the city.
Step inside
Everything you need
From premium KITS frames and top designer styles to your daily contact lenses, we have your entire vision experience covered. We cut lenses locally to get your glasses ready sooner, and we bill your insurance directly so you can focus on the fit.
Full-scope optometry
Good vision starts with healthy eyes. We provide comprehensive exams to catch the details that matter. Whether it's a routine check or a specific concern, you are in expert hands.
The coffee bar
Come for the frames and stay for the brew. We serve premium coffee because shopping for glasses should feel like a break and not a chore.