Can You Reuse Lenses in New Frames?
Vicci Eyewear
Aug 27, 2022
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...
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.
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.
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!
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.
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:
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!
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:
Then, we will hand this information over at our Eyewear Lab in Florida, USA.
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