Interpupillary distance (PD) is a measurement of the distance between the centers of your
two eyes and is dependent on whether you are buying eyewear for distance or close up.
This measurement is used to properly align the center of your eyeglass lenses with the
center of your eyes. If the centers of your eyeglass lenses are not aligned properly, then
you may experience eyestrain, headaches, distorted vision, double vision, blurred vision
and/or an inability to wear your eyeglasses.

A PD measurement is part of the dispensing service, not part of the eye examination. Other
dispensing services include selection of an appropriate frame, recommendation of an
appropriate lens type, thickness and coatings, adjustment of the frame, proper placement of
the bifocal or progressive. It is the responsibility of the person or company providing the
dispensing service to accurately measure your PD.

There are a number of measurements that your doctor of optometry will take when fitting
you for multifocal lenses. As with all multifocal lenses, the two key measurements are the
interpupillary distance and the segment height. Both of these determine where the
multifocal lens will be orientated in the frame to give you proper vision. Each lens
manufacturer has its own version of customized progressives.

Near-pupillary distances are also measured as the reading area in progressive addition
lenses is customized instead of being standard. Other measurements that are done include
the vertex distance (the distance between the frame and the cornea), the pantascopic tilt
(the amount of tilt on the front of the frame) and the wrap angle (the amount the frame is
curved towards your face). The newest types of progressives are more user friendly, giving
a wider area of clear vision and are generally easier to adapt to, especially for those with
stronger prescriptions.