How to Read Your Eye Prescription for Contact Lenses
Buying powered contact lenses for the first time? Here's how to read and use your prescription correctly when ordering at Eyevo.
Where to Get Your Prescription
You need a current prescription from a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist (we recommend re-testing every 1-2 years). Eye-test prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses are slightly different, always ask specifically for a contact lens prescription.
What do OD and OS mean?
OD means your right eye (oculus dexter) and OS means your left eye (oculus sinister). On many prescriptions these are simply written as R and L. When you order at Eyevo, OD maps to Right Eye Power and OS maps to Left Eye Power, enter each eye separately.
What is SPH (sphere)?
SPH (sphere) is your main lens power. A minus sign (−) means you're nearsighted; a plus sign (+) means farsighted. For example, −2.50 is moderate nearsightedness. This is the number you'll match to the power options on each product page.
Prescription terms at a glance
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| OD / R | Right eye (oculus dexter) |
| OS / L | Left eye (oculus sinister) |
| SPH | Sphere, main power (− nearsighted, + farsighted) |
| CYL | Cylinder, astigmatism correction (toric lenses only) |
| AXIS | Angle of astigmatism correction (toric lenses only) |
| BC | Base curve, lens curvature. Common: 8.4, 8.6, 8.8 |
| DIA | Diameter, lens size in mm. Common: 14.0, 14.2, 14.5 |
How do I order lenses with power on Eyevo?
On each product page you select two values, a Right Eye Power and a Left Eye Power, from Plano (0.00) to −8.00 in 0.25 steps. Choose Plano (0.00) for cosmetic-only colour, or match each eye to your prescription for vision correction. If your prescription has values beyond this range, contact us for a custom order.
- Right eye power (e.g. −2.00)
- Left eye power (e.g. −1.75)
Important Notes
- Glasses prescriptions are not the same as contact lens prescriptions, especially for powers above ±4.00. Get a separate contact lens prescription if needed.
- Colour lenses without power (Plano / 0.00) are cosmetic only and do not correct vision.
- Always consult an eye doctor before wearing contact lenses for the first time.
Still Confused?
Send us a photo of your prescription via our Contact page or WhatsApp us at +92 3200704520, and we'll help you choose the right power. New to lenses? Read How to Wear Contact Lenses too.