We often have questions of whether or not a patient can reuse and old frame for a new prescription or a frame that was purchased outside of our office. We can reuse existing frames under a few conditions. Most frames that are in good condition can be used but with a limitation of liability.
While we are very careful when handling your supplied frames, it is always possible that a frame could break or become damaged when disassembling and reassembling lenses into the frame. Patient-supplied frames are also rarely under warranty. For this reason, we cannot be held responsible for any cost incurred if your existing frames become damaged, broken, or lost when placing your new lenses and in transit to or from our lab. In the event that your frame becomes broken, you can supply another frame, purchase any of our stock frames for 25% off, or can choose from our free frame collection. It is important to note that the cost of lenses cannot be refunded as lenses are custom-made for your specific prescription and the shape of your selected frame.
When a patient elects to use his or her own existing frames we will examine them for any signs of wear and tear. It is important to understand that this does not guarantee that your frames are in optimal shape as there are many factors that could make a frame more likely to break or become damaged that are not visible to the naked eye. We will do our best to advise you of the risk of breakage or damage. Because the frames are not our own, we cannot guarantee a perfect fit and cannot be liable in any way for breakage or cost due to patient-provided frame failure. We will confirm that you wish to proceed knowing the risks associated and assuming financial responsibility for any damage, breakage, or loss. At this time you will also be charged a $30 fee to cover the cost of frame examination, de-mounting, cleaning, edging, and mounting your new lenses into your supplied frame. If your specific frame or lens requires complex lens mountings such as a drill-mount, you may be charged additional fees.
While the decision is ultimately up to you, we recommend considering a new frame that includes a warranty. This will not only maximize the lifetime of your frames, but will also save you the replacement cost of new lenses should your existing frames become broken, damaged, or lost in transit. Most of our frames come with a 1 year warranty.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (604) 558-3937.