Community Chat

[feline groovy]

I have to replace my 12 year-old eyeglass frames but can't afford new lenses.

(they're high-index progressives with a very strong prescription)

Is there someone that could professionally adhere my old lenses to new frames?

Thanks in advance for your assistance. 8-)

ETA: 

in the past I was able to afford a backup pair, but I don't have one with my current glasses. 

[kaydee50]

Where did you buy the glasses?  I would think that they could take the lenses and put them into new frames.

[spumoni99]

Yes they can do that, I'm not sure what the details are I would talk to someone about it an eyeglass store. 

[feline groovy]

@kaydee50 :

at Warby Parker's website - I'm not near one of their B&M stores.

[Venezia]

@feline groovy - Take your glasses to your optician and ask them to find a frame that will fit your lenses.  If they can't order the same frame, they should be able to find something similar that will fit.

You don't say whether you currently have a plastic frame, but that's likely what they'd be able to put your lenses into.  (Many decades ago I worked as an optician for a few years and we did that for customers.  I can't see any reason, it can't still be done.)

ETA:  I just read your above post.  Have you checked Warby Parker to find out, if they still have the same frame or something very similar?  Stranger things have happened!

[Meowingkitty]

When I wore glasses I found most places won't just swap lenses into new frames.  Most likely they won't fit properly and they want you to have a new exam every so often. At 12 years old I would think the lenses have seen better days and even if you don't notice it your vision changes over time.  If they were progressives or special lenses like mine were the optical place most likely won't do it. It's not a money grab, it's their ethics. You might be able to do it if they are frameless but again, most places won't do it just because the age of the lenses. It's been several years since I wore glasses and maybe things have changed. 

[Venezia]

If the customer's prescription hasn't changed and the lenses are in good shape, I see no reason why an optical store wouldn't put them into a new frame.

I haven't changed my eyeglasses for at least 6 years or so; no change in prescription and my current glasses are in excellent condition.  Eyeglasses are very expensive, if you go to a reputable optician, so why shouldn't she try to get them put in a new frame?

[feline groovy]

@Venezia:

I have an acetate frame and don't have an optician.

Warby Parker doesn't make the frame anymore but I've found it on Poshmark and Ebay,. both new (reasonably-priced) and used.

Not that the replacement has to be the same one that I have, but at least I know it fits my lenses.

Interesting that you were an optician at one time!

[I am still oxox]

After 12 years arent the lenses scratched and somewhat worn down?

[feline groovy]

@Meowingkitty :

I definitely know that my vision has changed and have needed to get stronger prescription lenses for a long time.

I've worn eyeglasses since I was 5; single vision at first, progressives since my late 40s.

Yep, the frame definitely has seen better days but I've been lucky that it's held up so long.

The lenses as well.