I Love My Glasses - Can I Reuse My Frames with a New Prescription?
If you have ever wondered if prescription glass and sunglass frames can be reused, the answer is maybe. Probably not the answer you wanted to hear if you are reading this, but there are a few reasons why this practice isn’t common. It is possible, though.
When it comes to reusing frames, there are a few considerations that need to be taken:
- The compatibility of the new lenses with the existing frames if the shape or thickness is different.
- The state of repair the old frames are in.
- Cost differences between replacing or a new set and what will be covered by insurance.
If you would like to keep your old frames, you should bring that up with your eye doctor or eyeglass provider. They will have a good understanding of compatibility and costs and be able to determine if your frames are in good enough condition to reuse.
But let’s take a quick look at each of the points and why they matter.
1. Lens and Frame Compatibility
Manufacturing specifications for brands tend to change over the years. And when it comes to eyewear, you often have two brands to juggle compatibility with.
The frame and the lens itself must work together. There is a chance that the frame you love and have had for a few years may no longer work with the prescriptive lens you need, even if your eyesight hasn’t changed and you only need a replacement.
2. Hidden Costs
At first glance, it may feel like reusing a frame you love will save money – you're only paying for the lenses and installation, after all. These savings can be especially true for pricer designer frames. But depending on how you intend to pay, there are some drawbacks.
If you rely on insurance to help cover some of the costs, most insurance companies will only help cover payments on an entirely new pair of glasses. Depending on the price and type of prescription lens, this may still work in your favor but will take some individual number crunching.
One additional hidden consideration is the cost of replacement if the frame or lens breaks. You will want to check the warranty for repair and replacement on both. For some companies, this coverage is voided due to the risk of an already well-used frame seeing extended wear and tear.
3. How to Tell if the Frames Can Be Reused
If your new lenses and old frames are compatible, and the potential costs work in your favor, you will still need to check that your frames are in good enough shape to reuse. There are a few items that warrant inspection to determine:
- Frame discoloration: If you notice any discoloration of the frame material that goes deeper than just surface staining, this indicates deeper wear on the frame, which means it may no longer be durable and stable. Metal frames are considerably more resistant to this damage than plastic.
- Surface Integrity: Over time, finishes and materials on frames can start to have micro-cracks from expansion and contraction due to humidity and temperature changes. Once this begins to happen, it is often hard to repair and may mean you need to use a new frame set.
- Rust: Green rust that cannot be cleaned off can set into metal frame components, impacts functionality, and can discolor skin it contacts.
- Bends or Twists: If your frames have seen any bending or have visible twists, this not only impacts how well they fit but can prevent new lenses from seating properly.
- Rim Damage: The most critical frame component when it comes to the replacement of lenses is the rim. If it has any damage, its ability to securely hold a lens is compromised and likely means you cannot reuse the frame.
In general, if the frames are near or at the point where they would need significant repair or replacement, no matter how much you love them, it may be time to find a new set.
Speaking to a Prescription Lens Specialist
If you aren’t sure about your frame's durability or fit with your planned new lenses, speak to your eye doctor or frame technician. They can do a thorough review and check for exact compatibility. They may also be able to help recommend a new frame as close as possible to the one you love.
This can be especially helpful for kids who may get attached to glasses they begin to grow out of. Getting kids to love a new set of glasses is always challenging.
For Buncombe and surrounding counties in North Carolina, Asheville Vision and Wellness has the expertise, respect, and technology you can trust with your vision. If you have any concerns or questions regarding insurance, coverage options, or eye care costs, our knowledgeable staff can help answer your questions.
Since 1989, our staff has served the area using the latest science and medical treatments to keep your vision healthy. Our optometrists are certified in diagnosing, treating, and managing the ocular disease with examinations customized just for your unique eye-care needs. We accept a wide variety of insurance plans and payment options.
If you have concerns about your eyesight or are overdue for an annual checkup, schedule an appointment online or call us at (828) 747-9260.