Vicci Blog

Can You Reuse Lenses in New Frames?

Vicci Eyewear

Aug 27, 2022

Can You Reuse Lenses in New Frames?

If you've never had glasses before, it might seem like a hassle to get new lenses every time you change your frames. Or maybe your current pair of glasses are too expensive, or you're worried that getting a new prescription means you'll have to buy a whole new set of glasses (which can be costly). In either case, the answer may be no need! You can reuse lenses in many cases. There are some important things to keep in mind when reusing lenses in new frames so read on for our tips and tricks for choosing the right combination...

Step 1 - Ask an optometrist

If you’re looking to reuse lenses in new frames, the first step is to make sure that your optometrist can do it. Since this process depends on the frame style and prescription, they will be able to tell you whether or not they can reuse your old lenses. If they cannot reuse them, they will recommend a place where you can go instead. However, if they are capable of doing this work themselves, then ask them what type of frame material would work best with your old prescription because different materials need different types of lenses. Your doctor will also be able to advise about other aspects related to buying online as well as how much it costs for certain services such as lens grinding and polishing.

Step 2 - Check the prescription

If your prescription is in a new lens, you can use it again. Most lenses are prescription-specific, so if the lens fits in the frame and looks good on your face, then you should be able to keep it.

If you don't have a prescription for this pair of frames but still want to buy lenses for them, there are two options: one is to get a professional eye exam at an optometrist's office or optical shop.

Step 3 - Check the frame size

  • Measure the width of the lens.
  • Measure the height of the lens.
  • Check the size of your frame and make sure that you have enough space in between each side to fit your lenses comfortably.
  • Check if there is enough room for your nose pads and temples to fit properly, as they play an important role in preventing slippage while wearing glasses.

Step 4 - Check the material

Once you've determined the material of your lenses, check to see if they are coated. Most lenses are coated with a film that protects your eyes from harmful UV rays and makes them easier on your eyes. If you're buying a new frame, ask whether or not the lenses can be re-coated for reuse in old frames. If so, this will eliminate the need for new lenses.

If it's not possible to re-coat the lens material and fit it into an existing frame (for example if you have metal frames), then proceed with making sure that there's enough room at the end of each arm of your glasses for a screw before ordering them. The standard size is 22 mm but some brands may vary slightly from this measurement so always double-check before purchasing!

Step 5 - Check the special features

You'll also want to check the frame's special features, such as nose pads or temples (the piece that connects the lens and the earpiece). If your frames have any of these, they must be discarded.

If you're using metal lenses in a plastic frame, you can recycle them into new ones. Wood or glass lenses can also be recycled but may not always be suitable for reuse in another pair of glasses because of their weight or shape.

In most cases, you should be able to reuse lenses in new frames.

As with any new purchase, you should check the prescription on the lenses before you put them in your case. There are two reasons to make this a regular practice:

  • You may have more than one prescription and want to keep track of each pair's measurements.
  • If there is something wrong with the lenses, like scratches or chips, it could be important information for an optometrist to know.

Conclusion

Although it might seem like a lot of work, reusing your lenses in new frames is very easy. Just make sure you double-check all of the different factors before doing so!

Unsure or Nervous About Buying Prescription Glasses Online?

You can now BOOK A 1:1 CONSULTATION with our EYEWEAR EXPERT. It would only take 15 to 30 minutes of your time and you will feel 100% confident buying glasses online. During the consultation call, our Eyewear Expert will:

  • 1
    Walk you through your prescription
  • 2
    Help you figure out the perfect frame to match your features and needs
  • 3
    Guide you in choosing the right lenses

Then, we will hand this information over at our Eyewear Lab in Florida, USA.

  • no commitment
  • 100% free
  • Satisfaction guaranteed
  • no commitment
  • 100% free
  • Satisfaction guaranteed