What Are SHAW Lenses and How Do They Work?

At Broad View Eye Center, we understand that clear, comfortable vision is more than just having the right prescription. Some patients struggle with unique vision challenges that traditional glasses or contact lenses cannot fully address. SHAW lenses are a specialized optical solution designed to reduce eye strain, improve clarity, and make vision feel more natural.

What Are SHAW Lenses?

SHAW lenses are custom-designed eyeglass lenses created specifically for people with anisometropia - a condition where each eye has a different prescription strength. When left uncorrected, this difference can cause visual distortions such as:

Uneven image sizes between the eyes (aniseikonia)
Double vision or difficulty focusing
Eyestrain, headaches, or discomfort while reading or using screens

Unlike standard lenses, SHAW lenses use advanced computer modeling and precise measurements of how your eyes work together. This allows them to correct for not only your prescription but also the way your eyes move and process visual information, resulting in more comfortable, balanced vision.

How Do SHAW Lenses Work?

Traditional eyeglass lenses correct each eye’s prescription independently. However, when the difference between the eyes is significant, the brain receives two images of different sizes—making it harder to fuse them into one clear picture.

SHAW lenses solve this by using a patented design process called isophoric lens technology. Here’s how it works:

Eye Movement Simulation - A SHAW lens fitting begins with advanced testing to measure how your eyes move and work together.
Custom Lens Modeling - Using this data, specialized software calculates the exact lens design needed to equalize image sizes.
Balanced Vision - The final product reduces distortion and ensures both eyes send images of the same size to the brain, allowing for natural, effortless vision.

This makes SHAW lenses particularly beneficial for activities that require sustained focus.

Who Can Benefit From SHAW Lenses?

SHAW lenses are ideal for patients who:

Have a significant difference between the two eyes’ prescriptions
Experience eyestrain or discomfort with traditional glasses
Struggle with double vision or poor depth perception
Need a solution beyond what contacts or surgery can provide

By addressing the underlying issue of image size imbalance, SHAW lenses can provide a level of visual comfort that standard lenses simply can’t match.

Ready to See the Difference?

At Broad View Eye Center, we are committed to offering the latest technology in eye care to help our patients see their best. SHAW lenses provide a customized solution for individuals with complex vision needs, reducing strain and improving day-to-day comfort. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure you find the solution that fits your lifestyle and vision needs.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Broad View Eye Center to learn if SHAW lenses are right for you. Visit our office in Berea, Broadview Heights, or Strongsville, Ohio. Call (440) 526-7070 or (440) 238-7865 to book an appointment today.