For patients suffering from double vision, dizziness, eye strain, or headaches, especially those told they have binocular vision dysfunction (BVD), prism glasses often offer relief. But many patients come to us saying:
“I’ve been wearing prism for years, but my glasses never felt quite right.”
At NeuroVisual Specialists of Florida, we understand why that happens, because prism isn’t just part of what we do. It’s what we do all day, every day. Led by Dr. Erin Sonneberg, we specialize in the precise diagnosis and treatment of BVD using prism lenses. If you’ve been struggling to get your glasses right, you’re in the right place.
What Are Prism Glasses?
Prism glasses are prescription lenses with specialized prisms built into them. These prisms bend light before it enters your eyes, correcting misalignments between the eyes and helping your brain fuse images into one clear picture.
Most commonly, prism glasses are used to:
- Eliminate double vision (diplopia)
- Improve binocular vision
- Reduce eye strain, headaches, and dizziness
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, multiple clinical tests, like the cover/uncover test and the Maddox rod test, can confirm the need for prism.
Why Prism Glasses Don’t Always Work—Unless They’re Done Right
Many patients have been prescribed prism in the past without success. Here’s why: prism is complex, and it requires both experience and specialization to get it right. General optometrists may dabble in prism occasionally, but it’s not their primary focus.
As Dr. Sonneberg often says:
“That’s why I’m here. I work with prism all day. This is not something I dabble in.”
Getting prism right isn’t just about the numbers on your prescription—it’s about truly understanding how your brain and eyes are working together (or not). That’s what sets our practice apart.
What Is Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD)?
BVD is a condition where the eyes don’t align properly, making it difficult for the brain to create a single, clear image. This misalignment can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Double or blurry vision
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Motion sensitivity
- Difficulty reading or concentrating
- Anxiety in busy environments
Many of our patients with BVD have seen multiple providers before finding us. They’re often relieved to learn that their symptoms aren’t “all in their head” and that the right prism glasses can make a life-changing difference.
Learn more about Binocular Vision Dysfunction here.
How Do We Customize Prism Glasses?
We begin with a comprehensive neurovisual exam, using specialized techniques and tools not found in a standard eye exam. This allows us to measure even subtle misalignments and prescribe a custom prism solution tailored to your exact needs.
Prism is added during the exam into a trial frame. You actually get to wear the prism in the office before we order your glasses. That’s how we know it is going to work!
We also work closely with patients throughout the adaptation period, especially if you’ve worn prism before but haven’t been able to get it quite right.
Can Prism Be Added to Reading Glasses?
Yes. Prism can be incorporated into single-vision lenses, bifocals, or progressive lenses, including reading glasses. If your symptoms show up primarily during near tasks like reading or computer work, we can tailor your prism to that focal range.
The Prism Difference at NeuroVisual Specialists of Florida
If you’ve been living with symptoms of BVD or have worn prism glasses that never seemed to work, it’s time for a different approach. We’ve helped countless patients finally experience the relief they were searching for, often after years of frustration.
Our goal isn’t just to treat symptoms; it’s to improve your quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Clarity
Wondering if you might benefit from prism lenses? The best way to start is by completing our Binocular Vision Dysfunction Questionnaire. It takes just a few minutes, and it could change everything.
If your results suggest BVD, we’ll invite you to schedule a full neurovisual evaluation with Dr. Sonneberg. We’re proud to be Florida’s trusted destination for prism glasses and BVD treatment.
Dr. Erin Sonneberg
Dr. Erin Sonneberg, OD, received her Doctor of Optometry degree from New England School of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts in 2004. She completed her undergraduate studies at City University of New York, Queens College in 2000, where she graduated with honors in business. Dr. Sonneberg relocated to Boynton Beach, Florida, in 2006, and has been practicing alongside prestigious ophthalmologists in the area since that time.
