Eyeglass frames are trendy, and these days they are often used as a fashion accessory to make the wearer look more sophisticated, intelligent or professional. It is possible to wear optical-quality frames even if you do not require prescription lenses. Plain or clear lenses without a prescription, also called “plano” lenses, are made from the same material and quality as prescription lenses and can be inserted into any frame that is designed to hold prescription lenses.
Instructions
Frame Quality
1 Inspect your frames to determine that they are considered optical quality. Plastic frames must be strong enough to be heated for new lenses and metal frames have to be taken apart and reassembled when replacing lenses. Frames that are purchased in optical retail offices and eye doctor offices are considered optical-quality frames that are designed for lens replacement. Inexpensive fashion frames that are sold in accessory stores are not good for putting in plain glass lenses because the frames break easily and are not designed to hold optical-quality lenses.
If you are unsure of the frame quality, take it to any optical retail office and have an optician check the quality of the frame. Opticians do not charge for this service.
2 Search online for optical retailers. Purchasing lenses online is usually less expensive. In most cases, it is more convenient to have an optician help you order lenses, but when there is no prescription involved, putting plain lenses in your frame can be done easily by ordering them online. You will need to send the frames to the online lab or optical retail store and you should be able to have them made quickly (usually within a week).
3 Decide on a lens material. Once you have found a place to insert your lenses, you must decide on the type of plain glass that you want to wear. According to the Cleveland Clinic, lenses used to be made exclusively out of glass; however, now most lenses are made from different kinds of plastic because plastic is lighter and more shatter-resistant. The biggest advantage of glass lenses is that they do not scratch as easily as other lens material.
Tips & Warnings
If you will be wearing your plain lenses during any physical activities, consider using polycarbonate lenses in your frames. This type of lenses is the most shatter-resistant and safer than regular plastic or glass lenses. According to the National Eye Institute, 90 percent of eye injuries could be avoided by wearing protective eyewear.