If you need a new prescription for glasses but love your current frames, what can you do? Maybe they fit perfectly, match your style, or hold sentimental value. The thought of starting over with new frames feels unnecessary when the ones you have work so well.
Yes, you can bring your own frames for new lenses in most cases, as long as they’re in good condition and compatible with your prescription needs. Your optometrists can evaluate your frames and help you determine whether they’ll meet your updated vision requirements.
What You Need to Know About Your New Frames
Bringing your own frames for new prescription lenses is a common practice. This lets you keep frames you already love while updating your vision correction to match your current needs.
Your optometrist can measure your frames and assess their condition to determine whether they can accommodate the lens replacement safely. The process works by carefully removing your old lenses and fitting new ones that match your updated prescription.
This option makes sense when your frames are in good shape, and you’re happy with how they look and feel. You’ll save money compared to buying a complete new pair, and you get to keep the style that works for your face and lifestyle.
When Your Frames Work for New Lenses
Your frames need to meet certain condition requirements before new lenses can be fitted. Your optician can check several key areas to make sure your frames can handle the lens replacement process, including:
- Sturdy hinges that open and close smoothly
- No cracks in the frame material
- Nose pads in good condition
- Arms that aren’t bent or damaged
Frame size plays a significant role in how well your new prescription can work. Larger frames give more room for different lens types, while smaller frames might limit certain prescription strengths or lens technologies.
Different frame materials also work better with specific lens types. Metal frames often handle heavy lenses well, while plastic frames work great for lighter prescriptions and progressive lenses for presbyopia. You don’t have to worry about these specifics, however. Your eye care team can match your frame material with the right lens option for your needs.
Frames That Don’t Work for Lens Replacement
Some frames may make lens replacement difficult or impossible. Some common issues include:
- Broken or loose screws
- Warped or twisted frames
- Severely scratched lens grooves
- Missing or damaged parts
These issues can cause problems during the fitting process or affect how your new lenses perform once they’re installed.
Also, strong prescriptions need frames with specific size requirements. Very small frames can’t accommodate thick lenses, and certain frame shapes don’t work well with high prescriptions because they cause edge distortion.
Specialized lens technologies, such as progressive lenses and anti-glare coatings, require frames with sufficient depth and specific measurements. Some older frame styles don’t have the right dimensions for these newer lens options.
What Happens During Your Frame Assessment
Your eyecare team can carefully examine your frames to check their structural integrity and compatibility with your new prescription. This assessment helps determine if your frames can safely hold new lenses without breaking during installation.
Several measurements are taken to help your new lenses sit correctly in your frames. The team measures your pupil distance, frame dimensions, and how the frames sit on your face to create lenses that can provide clear vision.
You can discuss different lens options that work with your specific frames and prescription. This includes going over which lens materials, coatings, and technologies can give you the clearest, most comfortable vision with your existing frames. Comprehensive eye exams are how optometrists determine the exact prescription your frames need to accommodate.
Typically, completing your new lenses takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on your prescription complexity and lens options.
What If I Need New Frames?
If your current frames don’t work for lens replacement, there is good news. At Lake Country Optometry, you can find a selection of fashionable frames that complement different face shapes and personal styles. From durable materials for an active life to stylish classics for your next night out, we carry frames designed to work well with various prescriptions and lens technologies.
Your frame choice directly affects how well your lenses perform. Frames with the right measurements and materials help your lenses provide clearer vision and more comfortable wear throughout your day.
Ask about lens materials, coating options, and how long your new lenses can take to complete. You can also ask about contact lenses as an alternative or complement to your glasses.
It’s Time to Upgrade Your Vision
Bring your current glasses and any backup pairs you have to your appointment. Our experienced team can evaluate multiple frames if you’re deciding between options or want to use different frames for specific activities.
Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Lake Country Optometry today, and see what we have in store for you.
