There are few things more frustrating that having to replace your eyeglass frames unexpectedly. First, there is the cost to consider. Some frames cost several hundred dollars, which can be a large expense if you aren’t prepared for it. Then there is the inconvenience of being without your glasses or having to use an old pair until you can get them replaced.
Consider your options carefully before deciding what to do next. First, look at your vision coverage through your insurance if you have it. How frequently do they allow you to replace your frames? For many plans, the answer is either every year or every other year. Are you due for a new frame? This could be the easiest and cheapest option.
If that’s not going to work, you can begin to consider other options. If you’ll need to use the frames for only a short period of time until your coverage gives you a new set of frames, you can make do with an inexpensive pair.
Otherwise, you can look online or talk to various vision centers to find a coupon or a deal that would give you a discount on the frames you want. This method is best for those that have a little bit of extra time and patience as you will have to contact multiple stores and spend some time doing research in order to make this work.
Another option is to look online for a discounted frame retailer online. These companies, who do the bulk of their business online, are able to reduce their overhead by not having to pay for a brick and mortar storefront. This means that they are frequently able to offer reduced prices on frames they sell, compared to traditional stores.
Once you’ve chosen a frame replacement option, you have to be able to get the prescription to the vendor you’ve chosen. If you don’t know your prescription you can contact the optometrist or vision center you use to get that information. While you’re talking to them, if you haven’t already, ask them what kind of deals they can give you on your eyeglass frame replacement.
Of course, you might be looking for a frame replacement because you have the coverage to do so with minimal out of pocket cost and you want to upgrade your look. If this is the case, you have a little bit of time and a lot of freedom of choice, and can select the frames that best suit your face, your style and your budget.
Choosing how to get an eyeglass frame replacement can be as simple or involved as you let it become. Evaluate your options, solidify your budget and make sure that you are able to live with the frames you’ve chosen.
I’m a lens specialist with expertise in eyeglass frame replacement.