RELATED CONTENT

By Andrew Karp and Marge Axelrad

 
NEW YORK—For many people, a visit to the eye doctor used to be about much as fun as a trip to the dentist. In other words, it was not something to look forward to.

But times are changing, and a new wave of technology, much of it developed by optical lens companies, is transforming the office visit into a more interesting and enjoyable experience for patients. Primed with information gleaned from television commercials, the Internet and other media, many patients now arrive at their eye doctor’s office eager to try out the latest eyewear styles and learn about frame, spectacle lens, contact lens and sunwear options.

From the moment a patient enters the waiting area, they encounter an array of sophisticated technologies that capture their personal health data and inform them about new products and procedures.

The eye exam itself is rapidly evolving, thanks to new instruments and softwear that can scan the eye with unprecedented accuracy and provide doctors with detailed analyses of ocular conditions. In the dispensary, opticians use advanced systems to measure and fit eyeglasses and offer virtual try-ons. And a growing number of consumers are shopping for eyewear on-line, often buying from a website connected to their local eyecare practice.

In this Special Report, VM explores how three spectacle lens companies—Carl Zeiss Vision, Essilor of America and Hoya Vision Care—are using advanced technologies to offer patients a refreshing new experience in all phases of the eyecare cycle.