For individuals living with low vision due to macular degeneration, Stargardt disease, diabetic retinopathy, or other eye conditions, everyday tasks like reading street signs, watching television, or recognizing faces can become difficult—even with regular glasses. If you’ve been told “nothing more can be done,” it may be time to explore a powerful tool in the world of low vision care: bioptic telescopic glasses.

What Are Bioptic Telescopic Glasses?

Bioptic telescopic glasses are a specialized type of eyewear that combines a prescription lens with miniature telescopes mounted toward the top portion of the lens. These miniature telescopes act much like binoculars, allowing the wearer to focus on distant objects with greater clarity. Patients can look through the regular portion of the glasses for normal viewing and tilt their head slightly to engage the telescope for enhanced distance vision.

This “look down, look up” design provides a natural way for users to alternate between their regular view and the magnified view—offering functional vision support without overwhelming the eyes.

How Do They Help with Independence?

Bioptic telescopes are often used to improve vision for activities that require seeing detail at a distance—such as:

• Driving (where legal): Recognizing street signs or traffic lights
• Watching TV or live performances
• Reading publications
• Reading classroom whiteboards or presentations
• Facial recognition in social settings
• Navigating public spaces like airports, stores, or parking lots

For many individuals, these glasses offer a renewed sense of confidence and greater independence. With the ability to see more clearly at a distance, patients can participate more fully in daily life, travel more freely, and rely less on others for help.

Are You a Candidate?

Not everyone with low vision qualifies for bioptic telescopic glasses. The ideal candidate typically has stable vision loss, strong motivation, and the ability to learn how to use the devices properly. A thorough low vision evaluation is essential to determine candidacy.

Why Choose a Doctor Trained by IALVS?

Dr. Bissell who is specially trained by the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS), brings advanced expertise to the table. IALVS doctors are dedicated to helping individuals with vision loss regain usable sight through customized solutions, including bioptic telescopes, E-Scoop glasses, magnification systems, and more.

IALVS-trained doctors don’t just prescribe glasses—they evaluate your lifestyle, visual goals, and functional challenges to create a personalized plan. Their focus is on helping you maintain as much independence and quality of life as possible.

Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one struggles with vision loss that isn’t corrected by regular glasses, it may be time to explore bioptic telescopic glasses. These specialized tools have helped thousands of individuals live more independently, pursue hobbies, and—in some cases—legally drive again.

Don’t give up on your vision. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bissell, a low vision specialist trained by IALVS and see what’s possible. Call 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444 today to learn more about low vision services.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.