FDTS Glasses in Palm Harbor, FL
Full Diameter Telescope glasses, also known as Galilean telescopes, are designed to help you see things at a distance while seated or standing still — ideal for stationary activities where sharp, magnified detail matters most.
Request an AppointmentHow FDTS Glasses Work
Because they magnify your entire field of view, Full Diameter Telescope glasses aren’t practical to wear while walking — using them while mobile would feel similar to walking while looking through a pair of binoculars. Instead, they’re designed specifically for stationary tasks where you want strong, sustained magnification of something at a distance.
FDTS Glasses can help you:
- Watch TV
- Watch movies
- Go to the theater
- Enjoy sporting events
- See someone’s face clearly from across the room
An added reading cap can also be fitted to the lenses, allowing the wearer to see things up close for tasks like using a computer, playing cards, or reading. Because of this versatility, FDTS Glasses can improve a person’s functional vision up to three times or more, making them one of the more adaptable low vision devices we offer.
Who Can Benefit from FDTS Glasses?
FDTS Glasses are often recommended to improve vision for patients managing:
- Macular Degeneration
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic Retinopathy
Since FDTS Glasses are best suited to stationary, high-magnification tasks, they’re often paired with more mobile options like bioptic glasses for use while walking or driving. For close-up reading, you may also want to compare them with Clear Image Microscopic Glasses, and for an everyday, all-purpose option, our E-Scoop Glasses and field expanding glasses are worth discussing. You can see our complete lineup on the Low Vision Glasses page.
The best way to determine which device — or combination of devices — fits your lifestyle is through a comprehensive low vision evaluation. From there, many patients continue with low vision rehabilitation therapy to get comfortable using their new glasses in daily life. Learn more about the underlying eye diseases that cause low vision, or browse our full range of low vision treatments. New patients can find what to expect at their first visit on our New Patient Center page.
FDTS Glasses: Frequently Asked Questions
What are FDTS Glasses?
FDTS, or Full Diameter Telescope, glasses are Galilean telescope lenses designed to magnify distant objects for stationary tasks like watching TV, movies, or sporting events.
Can I walk while wearing FDTS Glasses?
No. Because they magnify your entire field of view, FDTS Glasses are meant for stationary use only. Walking while wearing them would feel similar to walking while looking through binoculars.
Can FDTS Glasses help with reading?
Yes. An added reading cap can be fitted to the lenses, allowing you to see close-up tasks like reading, computer use, or playing cards.
How much can FDTS Glasses improve my vision?
Many patients experience improved functional vision of up to three times or more, depending on their specific level of vision loss.
What conditions can FDTS Glasses help with?
They’re commonly recommended for patients managing macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.
How do I know if FDTS Glasses are the right choice for me?
A comprehensive low vision evaluation will help determine whether FDTS Glasses, or a combination with another device, best fits your specific vision and lifestyle needs.
