What to do if You Damage Your Prescription Glasses

Prescription glasses are an essential part of daily life for many individuals, providing clear vision to move about safely and confidently. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and glasses can be damaged through falls, sitting on them, forceful impacts, or accidental drops. Knowing what to do when this occurs is crucial to minimizing the impact on your vision and ensuring a quick return to clear sight. If you have damaged your prescription glasses, there are several simple yet effective steps to take to resolve the issue.

Assess the damage to the prescription glasses

The first step in dealing with damaged prescription glasses is to assess the extent of the damage carefully. This will help determine the most effective course of action. If the damage is minimal, such as a small scratch on the lens or a slightly loose crew, a simple repair may suffice. However, if the frame is broken or the lenses are severely scratched or cracked, patients may need to visit an optometrist for professional repairs or to have them replaced.

For minor issues, such as loose screws or a small chip in the lens, it may be possible to repair the glasses at home using a small repair kit, but depending on the extent of the damage, this may only offer a temporary solution. If one is unsure of how to repair the damage, it is best to schedule an appointment with an optometrist.

Temporary fixes for prescription glasses

In cases where the glasses are still usable but uncomfortable to wear, there are some temporary fixes to consider. For example, if the frame has an abnormal bend, carefully adjust it back into shape using a pair of pliers or hands to help restore comfort, but approach this solution with caution. Over-adjusting or forcing the frame into the wrong shape could cause more damage to the structure or the lenses.

For scratches or cracks on the lens, a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner may improve visibility slightly. However, individuals cannot fully remove these scratches and may need to replace their lenses to ensure optimal vision quality.

If the prescription glasses' nose pads are loose or detached, using an eyeglass repair kit to replace or reattach the nose pads can provide a temporary solution. These kits usually contain small screws and pads that help restore the fit and comfort. Note that many optometrist offices carry these kits for purchase in-store or online.

Visit the optometrist for professional repair or replacement

Prescription glasses with significant damage, such as broken frames, shattered lenses, or severely bent frames, temporary solutions will not suffice. An optometrist can assess the damage and advise on the most appropriate course of action. In some cases, they may be able to replace the lenses if the damage is isolated and the frame is still intact. The optometrist will measure the lenses and create a new set based on the patient's prescription, which can save the cost of purchasing an entirely new pair of glasses.

If the frame is broken beyond repair, the optometrist may offer replacement frames and will be able to fit them with their current prescription lenses or help them select a new pair of glasses. Many optometrists offer a wide range of stylish and durable frames to choose from, ensuring that each patient can find a new look that suits their personal style.

Consider insurance coverage for prescription glasses

For those with vision insurance, it is essential to review the policy to determine if it covers the repair or replacement of prescription glasses. Many vision insurance plans provide coverage for glasses replacement every year or every two years, depending on the policy. Some plans may also cover a portion of the cost for repairs to prescription glasses, which can help offset the expense. If necessary, consult with the optometrist's office team to understand the process for making a claim for repair or replacement.

Preventing future damage to the prescription glasses

After resolving, it is important to understand how to prevent future damage. Always store the prescription glasses in a hard case when not in use, as this will protect against accidental drops, scratches, or bending. If necessary, take the glasses off during physical activity or in an environment where they could be damaged. Also, consider using a glasses strap or cord to keep them securely in place.

Additionally, cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth and appropriate lens cleaner regularly can help prevent dirt, oils, and grime from causing scratches over time. Avoid using clothing on paper towels to clean the lenses, as this can damage the lens surface.

Repair or replace your prescription glasses

Damaging your prescription glasses can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can resolve the issue efficiently. Whether you need a simple repair or full replacement, visiting an optometrist is the best way to ensure that your glasses are restored to optimal condition. If you have damaged your glasses, contact our office today and schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.texasoptical.net or call Texas Optical at (214) 771-7333 for an appointment in our Dallas office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.