Can You Put New Lenses in Old Frames?

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can put new lenses in old frames, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions people ask after getting their eyes tested and realising their prescription has changed, but their frames are still perfectly fine.

The good news is that, in most cases, the answer is yes. You don’t always need a brand-new pair of glasses just because your vision has changed. If your existing frames are in good condition and still suit you, replacing the lenses can be a smart, practical option.

In this post, we’ll walk through how it works, when it’s worth doing, when it’s not, how much it can cost, and what to check before you send your frames off.

So, Can You Put New Lenses in Old Frames?

Yes, you usually can. Opticians are asked every day things like can you have new lenses put in old frames, can new lenses be put in old frames, or can you change lenses in glasses. In many cases, fitting new lenses into existing frames is completely fine.

As long as the frames are structurally sound and suitable for your prescription, new lenses can be made and fitted without any major issues. This is especially common when someone already has a favourite pair they like wearing and don’t want to change the style or fit.

Why People Reuse Old Frames Instead of Buying New Ones

There’s a reason reglazing glasses has become so popular.

For a lot of people, their frames already tick all the boxes. They suit their face shape, feel comfortable all day, and match their personal style. Finding a new pair that feels the same isn’t always easy.

Other common reasons include:

• Wanting to save money rather than paying for a new pair of glasses
• Keeping beloved frames that are no longer sold in store
• Reducing waste by reusing eyewear instead of throwing old glasses away

If your frames are still doing their job, replacing the lenses often makes more sense than starting again.

Are All Old Frames Suitable for New Lenses?

Not always. While many old frames can be reused, some simply aren’t suitable.

Frames need to be in good condition to cope with having lenses removed and new ones inserted. Opticians will usually look closely at the hinges, the lens edges, and the overall shape of the frame.

Frames are more likely to be suitable if they:

• Have no cracks or splits around the lens area
• Still hold lenses firmly in place
• Aren’t warped or badly misshapen
• Have hinges that open and close smoothly

If frames are very old, brittle, or already damaged, there’s a higher risk they could break during the process.

What to Check Before You Reuse Your Existing Frames

Before sending frames off, it’s worth giving them a proper once-over.

Check the hinges for looseness, look closely at the edges where the lenses sit, and make sure the frames still feel solid when you put them on. Minor scratches or cosmetic wear are usually fine, but structural issues are not.

If you’re unsure, an optician can advise whether your frames are suitable before any work starts.

Using Your Own Frame With a New Prescription

Using your own frame for a new prescription is very common, especially after having your eyes tested.

Most standard prescriptions can be fitted into suitable frames without any issues. However, stronger prescriptions may need thicker lenses, which can place extra stress on older or more delicate frames.

This doesn’t mean it can’t be done, but it’s something an optician will take into account before going ahead.

What Types of Lenses Can Be Fitted?

Single Vision Lenses

Single vision lenses are the simplest option and the easiest to fit into old frames. They correct vision at one distance only and work well for reading or distance glasses.

If your prescription is straightforward, fitting single vision lenses into existing frames is usually a smooth and low-risk process.

Varifocal Lenses

Varifocal lenses can also be fitted into old frames, but the frame shape matters more. Varifocals need enough vertical depth to allow for distance, intermediate, and reading zones.

Shallow or very small frames may not be suitable, even if they previously held varifocal lenses.

Non Prescription Lenses

You can also fit non prescription lenses into old frames. These are often used for fashion frames, screen glasses, or other plain lens options where no vision correction is required.

What About Sunglasses?

Yes, sunglasses can often be reglazed too. This applies to both prescription sunglasses and standard tinted styles.

If the frames are suitable, a professional sunglass lens replacement service can fit new tinted, polarised, or UV-protective lenses into your existing sunglasses.

How the Reglazing Process Works

The process is usually straightforward:

1. You provide your prescription and lens choices
2. Your frames are sent securely by post
3. The frames are checked for suitability
4. New lenses are cut to the exact shape
5. Lenses are fitted into the frames
6. Your glasses are returned ready to wear

Using a dedicated reglaze glasses service means you don’t need to visit a physical store to get it done.

Is There a Risk the Frames Could Break?

There is always a small risk when working with old frames. Age, material, and previous wear all play a part.

Frames that are in good condition rarely cause problems, but very old or fragile frames can break when lenses are removed or inserted. This is why condition checks are crucial before starting.

Is It Cheaper to Replace Lenses or Buy New Glasses?

In most cases, replacing lenses is cheaper than buying a new pair of glasses. The final cost depends on your prescription, lens type, and any coatings you choose.

By reusing frames, many people save money and avoid paying for new frames they don’t actually need.

Saving Money and Reducing Waste

There’s also an environmental benefit to reusing old frames. Keeping glasses in use for longer helps reduce waste and cuts down on unnecessary replacements.

For many people, reglazing isn’t just about money – it’s about making better use of what they already own.

Final Thoughts

If your frames are still in good condition and you like how they look and feel, getting new lenses fitted is often a sensible option. It allows you to update your vision, keep a favourite pair, and avoid buying new frames unnecessarily.

For a lot of people, reusing old frames with new lenses is simply the easiest and smartest choice.

FAQs

Can you put new lenses in old frames?

Yes, in most cases you can. If your frames are in good condition and suitable for your prescription, opticians can usually replace the lenses without needing a new pair of glasses.

Can opticians put lenses in any frames?

No. Frames must be structurally sound and able to hold lenses securely. Frames that are cracked, badly warped, or very brittle may not be suitable for new lenses.

Can you have new lenses put in old frames in the UK?

Yes. Many UK opticians and online services offer reglazing, allowing you to reuse your existing frames rather than buying new ones.

Is it cheaper to replace lenses or buy a new pair of glasses?

Replacing lenses is often cheaper than buying a new pair of glasses, especially if your frames are still in good condition. The final cost depends on your prescription, lens type, and coatings.

Can you get new lenses in scratched old frames?

Scratches on the lenses are fine, as the lenses will be replaced. However, if the frames themselves are scratched, cracked, or damaged around the edges, they may not be suitable.

Can you put new lenses in sunglasses?

Yes. Many sunglasses can have new lenses fitted, including prescription and non-prescription sunglasses, as long as the frames are suitable.

Can you reuse old frames with a new prescription?

Yes. Using your own frame with a new prescription is common after an eye test. Stronger prescriptions may require thicker lenses, so frame suitability will be checked first.

Is there a risk my frames could break?

There is always a small risk, particularly with very old or fragile frames. Frames in good condition rarely break, but age and material can increase the risk.

How long does it take to get new lenses fitted?

Turnaround times vary, but once frames are received, most reglazing services complete the process within a short waiting period.

When is it better to buy new frames instead?

Buying new frames may be a better option if your existing frames are damaged, uncomfortable, no longer suit your face shape, or are incompatible with your prescription.