Omar Khalid
If your glasses break or get scratched, you may need to replace the lenses. While it is possible to replace the lenses yourself, it is recommended to seek professional help from an optician to avoid damaging your glasses or frames. Opticians have access to special tools and can assess whether your frames are suitable for replacement lenses. If you choose to replace the lenses yourself, you will need to identify the type of frame you have. Some materials will require heat to insert the lens properly and others won’t. For example, to replace a lens in a full-rim frame, you must first unscrew the hinge between the lens and the arms, then gently pull the frames apart.
Characteristics and Values Table for Replacing Lenses in Plastic Frames
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to replace | When your prescription changes, or when your lenses are scratched or broken |
| Cost | Replacing lenses is more cost-effective than buying a new pair of glasses. The cost varies depending on the type of frame and prescription strength |
| Where to replace | Optical stores, online lens replacement services, or at home |
| Tools | Hairdryer, hot water, 1.5mm screwdriver |
| Risks | Frames may break during the replacement process |
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What You'll Learn
Unscrewing the hinge screw
Locate the hinge screw: Begin by identifying the small screw that holds the hinge of your glasses together. It is typically located on the edge hinge of the glasses, between the lens and the arms. This screw is crucial as it secures the lens in place.
Select the appropriate screwdriver: To unscrew the hinge screw, you will need a small, precision screwdriver that fits the screw head. The screw in glasses is usually small, often requiring a 1.5 mm screwdriver. Ensure you have the right size to avoid stripping the screw head.
Gently unscrew: Once you have the correct screwdriver, carefully insert it into the screw head. Slowly and gently turn the screwdriver in a counterclockwise direction to loosen the screw. Be cautious not to apply too much force, as this can strip the screw head or damage the delicate threads of the screw. Take your time and work slowly to avoid any damage.
Remove the screw: As you continue to turn the screwdriver counterclockwise, the hinge screw will gradually become looser until it is completely unscrewed. Carefully remove the screw and set it aside in a safe place to ensure it is not lost. It is a good idea to keep a small container or dish nearby to place the screw in temporarily.
Separate the frames: With the hinge screw removed, you can now gently separate the frames. Carefully pull them apart, being mindful not to use excessive force. Pulling too hard can result in further damage, such as breaking the frames or snapping the hinge. Take your time and work slowly to avoid any additional repairs.
Remember, while replacing lenses in plastic frames can be done at home, it is always recommended to seek professional help if you feel uncomfortable or unsure about any step in the process. Opticians have the necessary tools and expertise to handle lens replacement safely and effectively, reducing the risk of damage to your glasses.
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Removing the old lens
Firstly, identify the screw on the edge hinge of the glasses between the lens and the arms. Use a 1.5mm screwdriver to carefully unscrew it by spinning it counterclockwise. Be gentle and avoid applying too much force, as this can damage the frame.
Once the screw is removed, gently pull the frames apart until the lens can be removed. Take care not to pull too hard, as this can result in a broken frame. If your frames are made from certain materials, such as zyl acetate, carbon material, or nylon, you may need to apply heat to remove the lens properly. Use a hairdryer to apply heat to the frames, making them more malleable.
If your lens is broken, carefully remove any shards, taking care not to cut yourself. It is important to remember that attempting to remove the old lens at home carries a risk of damaging your frames. If your frames are scratched, dented, or show signs of wear and tear, it may be wiser to invest in a new pair rather than risk further damage.
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Heating the frame
If your plastic frames do not have screws and are one-piece, you will need to heat the frames to remove the lenses. The goal of heating the frames is to make the plastic more flexible so that you can pop out the lenses.
There are two methods to heat the frames: using hot water or a hairdryer. For the hot water method, fill a bowl with hot water and submerge the frames for about a minute. If you are unable to flex the frames, leave them in the water for a little longer. Once the frames are flexible, apply gentle pressure using your fingers to remove one lens at a time.
If you are using a hairdryer, turn it on to a medium heat and speed setting. Hold the dryer about 6 inches (15 cm) from the frames and move it around the frames near the lenses. The heat will make the plastic more flexible. Do not use a high heat setting as you may melt or deform your frames.
Once the frames are heated and flexible, you can start to remove the lenses. Put your thumb on the concave side of the lens and push it out. Grip the nose bridge on the frames with your non-dominant hand and squeeze it tightly. Apply slight pressure to the lens and it will pop out of place. Be careful not to press the lenses too hard, or they may break or fall out of the frames.
After removing the old lenses, you can insert the new lenses while the frames are still warm and flexible. Line up the edge of the new lens with the frame, inserting it from the front and working it into the nose area with your thumb. You should hear a clicking sound, indicating that the lens is in place.
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Inserting the new lens
Inserting new lenses into plastic frames can be done at home, but it is recommended that you seek professional help to avoid damaging your frames or lenses. Opticians have access to special tools and instruments designed for working with eyeglass lenses and frames, and they will handle your eyeglasses with care.
If you choose to insert the new lenses yourself, there are a few methods you can try. One method is to use heat to make the plastic frames malleable. Place a hairdryer around the lenses or use the hot water method. Be careful not to use too much force when the frames are warm and flexible, as this can damage the frames and lenses. Apply more heat and try again if the lens does not pop in the first time.
Another method is to use a screwdriver to unscrew the screw on the edge hinge of the glasses between the lens and the arms. Spin the screwdriver counterclockwise to unscrew. Gently pull the frames apart until the lens can be removed, being careful not to pull too hard and break the frames.
Once the old lens is removed, place the new lens in the same spot, making sure it is aligned with the frame. Some materials will require heat to insert the lens properly, while others won't. For frames not requiring heat, simply align the lens with the frame's groove (or bevel) from the back and pop the lens into place.
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$108.99
Seeking professional help
While it is possible to replace the lenses in your plastic frames yourself, it is generally recommended that you seek professional help to avoid damaging your frames or lenses.
Optical stores and online lens replacement services can remove the old lenses and fit your new lenses into your frames. Opticians have access to special tools and instruments designed specifically for working with eyeglass lenses and frames. They will also know how to handle your glasses with care, avoiding applying too much pressure or heat, which can cause damage.
If you are unsure about replacing the lenses yourself, it is best to seek help from the brand or a glasses store to ensure the job is done correctly. Professionals may also be able to assist you in finding a compatible frame if necessary.
To find a professional to replace your lenses, you can try searching online for optical stores or lens replacement services in your area. You can also ask your local optician for recommendations. When seeking professional help, be sure to have your current eyeglass prescription and your old glasses with you so that the optician can assess the state of your frames and determine if they are suitable for replacement lenses.
Remember that there is a risk when you choose to use your own frames for new lenses. It is possible that your frames may break during the lens replacement process, and the professional or lab will not be responsible for any breakage that occurs. In some cases, you may need to leave your frames with the optician until the new lenses are ready, so be sure to have a backup pair of glasses to use in the meantime.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to take your glasses to an optician to replace the lenses. However, if you would like to replace them at home, follow these steps:
- Identify the screw on the edge hinge of the glasses between the lens and the arms and unscrew it by spinning it counterclockwise with a 1.5mm screwdriver.
- Pull the frames apart gently until the lens can be removed.
- Place the new lens in the same spot as the previous one, making sure it is in line with the frame.
- Some materials will require heat to insert the lens properly. If your frames require heat, use a hairdryer to heat them until they are malleable, and insert the new lens while the frame is still warm.
Many different materials can be used to make plastic frames, including zyl acetate, carbon material, and nylon. Some of these materials will require heat to insert the lens properly, and others won't. If the hot water method does not work, try heating your frames.
There is a risk of damaging your glasses or frames when attempting to replace the lenses at home. Opticians have access to special tools and are trained to handle glasses with care. They will also assess the state of your frames to determine if they are suitable for replacement lenses.
The cost of replacing lenses in plastic frames varies depending on the type of frame and the strength of your prescription. Generally, lenses for plastic frames are cheaper than those for metal frames.
You can get your lenses replaced at optical stores or online lens replacement services.
