Eyeglass prescriptions normally expire after two years, and most eyeglass manufacturers will not replace eyeglass lenses without a prescription less than two years old. The standard is two years for eyeglasses and one year for contact lenses. The time may vary based on the state and city where you currently reside. However, if you still have your last prescription and it has not yet expired, your eyeglass lenses can easily be replaced.
Instructions
things you’ll need:
Previous eye prescription
Eyeglass frame
1 Examine your old prescription and check the expiration date. This will save you time because you might be denied a replacement by the lens store based on that date. Also, analyze whether you feel any changes in your eyes. Do you experience any strain? Can you see far away objects with the same amount of clarity? Can you read properly without any blur? All of these conditions are a good reason to check with your optometrist and schedule an exam for a new prescription, even if your current prescription has not expired yet.
2 Schedule a new exam with your optometrist. Depending on the expiration date you might need to get a new prescription. Remember that an eye exam is more than just determining your eyeglass needs. It also includes examining your eyes for any health-related issues. According to WebMD, a condition called astigmatism is often overlooked. It can only be detected with a proper eye exam, and may be a cause for symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, blurred vision and eyestrain.
3 Determine the eligibility of your prescription. If the prescription states you are bound to buy or replace your eyeglass lenses from the office where you got the exam, the prescriber might not be adhering to FDA “Prescription Release Rule.” This rule prohibits the eye-care practitioner from imposing a condition for the availability of an eye-care exam on an agreement to purchase ophthalmic goods. It also states that an eye-care practitioner must release copies of eyeglass prescriptions to their patients regardless of whether they request it.
4 Select which type of new lens you would like fitted into your frame. There are many different types of lenses to choose from depending on your needs. There are photochromatic lenses, which change from clear to tinted when exposed to sunlight, polycarbonate lenses, which are impact resistant and are good for sports enthusiasts, and others. Make sure you check your prescription first to determine if any specific lens is mentioned. Some lenses cannot be changed without a new prescription.
5 Visit a store near you to select your new lenses. Provide your old prescription and let the lens retailer fit the new lenses. The time it takes may vary depending on the company you choose.
6 Order your lenses online. You can conveniently order your replacement lenses online from home. You must mail your old frame to the company and will probably need to complete an online form with your prescription details. The lenses will be mailed to you after processing, which can take a week or more depending on the company.
7 Buy a cheap pair of glasses online or at a local store if you have an urgent need for glasses. You can upgrade them later, or wait for your lens replacement order to be delivered.
Tips & Warnings
Read your prescription carefully to see if it notes any other specifics. Some states require additional information on the prescription, such as the lens type.
Do not buy lenses from a third party that does not first check your prescription.
Do not underestimate the importance of an eye exam. Eye exams are essential for healthy eyes.