Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products and services - Vision Need

  • Single vision lenses correct one distance at a time and are used either for reading, distance vision, or computer work.

    Bifocals offer two distinct viewing zones with a visible line—one for far and one for near.

    Trifocals add a third segment for intermediate distance, usually computer range.

    Progressive lenses combine distance, intermediate, and near vision in one seamless lens with no visible lines, giving a modern and natural viewing experience.

  • Single vision lenses are ideal when you only need correction for one vision distance. They are commonly used for driving, everyday distance vision, reading, and computer tasks. They are lightweight, easy to adapt to, and perfect for younger wearers or anyone who prefers a simple, clear lens with excellent optical clarity.

  • Both are excellent options if you prefer visible lines that clearly separate viewing zones. Bifocals are the best choice when you need distance and reading correction. Trifocals are recommended if you also spend time working on a computer and require an intermediate zone. Many people choose lined lenses because they are familiar, easy to adapt to, and provide instant access to each vision area without searching through the lens.

  • Progressive lenses provide distance, mid-range, and reading correction without any visible lines. They offer a smooth transition between viewing distances and a more natural, comfortable experience. Most wearers appreciate the modern appearance, especially those who don’t want visible segments in their glasses. Progressives are a great everyday solution for active lifestyles and constant switching between near and far tasks.

  • The right choice depends on personal preference. Lined bifocal and trifocal lenses make each zone very clear and easy to find, which can be helpful if you are used to traditional designs. Progressive lenses offer seamless clarity and a clean, modern look without lines. They are excellent if you want a more natural visual experience and prefer glasses that look like single-vision lenses.

  • Single Vision Lenses: Traditional lenses designed to correct a single field of vision, such as distance, intermediate, or near. These lenses are cost-effective and widely used.

    Digital Single Vision Lenses: Manufactured using advanced digital technology to provide:

    • Sharper optics with reduced peripheral distortion.
    • Wider fields of view, especially beneficial for higher prescriptions.
    • Enhanced clarity for a more comfortable viewing experience.

    Digital lenses are ideal for anyone seeking the next level of optical precision.

    • Lined Trifocals: These lenses have three distinct viewing zones: distance, intermediate, and near.
    • No-Line Progressive Bifocals: Also known as progressive lenses, these provide a seamless transition between distance and near vision without visible lines.

    • OD (Oculus Dexter): Information for your right eye.
    • OS (Oculus Sinister): Information for your left eye.
    • OU (Oculus Uterque): Refers to both eyes.

    • SPH (Sphere) Indicates the lens power required to correct your vision:
      ** Nearsighted (Myopia): Marked with a minus (-) sign. Difficulty focusing on distant objects.
      ** Farsighted (Hyperopia): Marked with a plus (+) sign. Difficulty focusing on close objects.

    • CYL (Cylinder) Specifies the lens power needed to correct astigmatism (difficulty focusing due to irregular cornea shape):

    ** Nearsighted Astigmatism: Marked with a minus (-) sign.
    ** Farsighted Astigmatism:
     Marked with a plus (+) sign. Note: If your prescription has a CYL, it will always include an AXIS value.

    • AXIS: Defines the orientation of astigmatism correction: Measured in degrees, ranging from 0 to 180.This specifies the exact position of the astigmatism on your eye.

    • ADD (Addition) Indicates additional lens power for reading or bifocal/varifocal glasses: Shows how much magnification is needed for close-up tasks or intermediate distances.

    • PRISM: Used to correct conditions like a lazy eye or squint: This adjustment shifts the focus of the lens to align the image properly on the retina. Included in prescriptions for special vision needs.
  • You can absolutely order single vision or Digital single vision lenses if your prescription has a bifocal. If you uploaded a copy of your order you will have SPECIFY if you only want single vision, and if it is for distance or reading.

    If you order Single Vision lenses and don't specify what type of prescription you need Glass Lens Eyewear will not be responsible for the lens error. We will remake new lenses at a substantially discounted rate.

  • We do offer Double segment prescription bifocals, commonly referred to as Double D bifocals within the optical industry. These lenses specially designed for individuals who require enhanced visual assistance. These unique lenses feature two distinct segments resembling the capital letter ‘D’ – one positioned at the upper and another at the lower part of the lens.

    Professionals such as electricians, mechanics, and plumbers often find themselves working in tight and confined spaces, necessitating the ability to view objects up close, above, and below them without the need to constantly adjust their heads. The ingenious placement of the bifocal segments on the Double D lenses allows these individuals to effortlessly glance up or down and access the full bifocal power, enhancing their efficiency and convenience at work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products and services - Lens Material

  • Glass lenses offer superior optical clarity, higher scratch resistance, and long-lasting durability compared to plastic or polycarbonate. They provide sharper vision with less distortion, especially for higher prescriptions. The trade-off is that they can be slightly heavier, which is why frame choice matters.

  • Modern high-index glass lenses are thinner and lighter than traditional glass, and the right frame makes a big difference. We recommend smaller eye sizes, round or oval shapes, or adjustable nose pads. These reduce weight pressure and make glass lenses comfortable for daily wear.
    Also, most of the added benefits of glass far outweigh the issues the material can have.

  • Yes. Glass lenses have natural scratch resistance without needing heavy coatings. They withstand everyday wear better than plastic or polycarbonate, making them ideal for people who want long-term durability.

  • Absolutely. High-index glass (1.70–1.90) is ideal for strong prescriptions because it is thinner, flatter, and less bulky than standard glass. This reduces lens thickness at the edges and gives a more natural look.

  • Glass lenses only work full-rim frames. They are not recommended for rimless or drill-mount frames due to their weight and material structure. For rimless frames, a polycarbonate, trivex or high-index plastic is better. Our parent company VS Eyewear offers a full range of these products.

  • You can select the following links that will take you to the specific lens replacement for each material index. This will give you greater details and a chart to help you determine your lens thickness.

  • While this is ultimately true, glass is a very rigid material that can shatter if dropped or hit the right way. It's EXTREMELY unlikely. You see, glass lenses are held to similar safety standards as other lens materials so they are much safer than most people think. They undergo specific treatments to help with impact resistance. They are also tempered so if they take an impact they don't necessarily shatter, instead they crack so it drastically reduces any chance of glass shards coming back into your eye.

  • Since glass lenses are so scratch resistant and chemical resistant they are significantly easier to take care of. This means that you don't have to worry as much about the cleaners you use, water works fine in most cases. You can also be a little more careless with your cloth because it's so much harder to scratch. Since this is the case glass lenses will typically last longer than a plastic lens.

    Like most things in life, there is a give and take when considering glass as your material of choice. But if you’re tired of your plastic lenses scratching and want superior clarity then you may want to give glass a chance!

  • The Glass Lens Eyewear team is excited to present our collection of glass safety glasses. This selection of products includes a great assortment of frames that come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. All of our glass safety glasses meet rigorous ANSI Z87 safety standards and feature extremely scratch-resistant glass lenses in a 1.53 index material.

    These glasses are ideal for people who need ANSI-approved safety glasses but don’t need the impact safety of polycarbonate. Plus, glass is much more scratch resistant than any plastic lens material and tends to take a lot longer to wear out.

    All glass safety glasses are available with a great variety of lens types that you can choose from. If you do want other lens material with your safety glasses, please reach out to our parent company VS Eyewear.

  • Glass Lens Eyewear does offer Photochromic lenses in 1.53 and 1.60 index glass lenses. They are the Photogray, Photobrown and Corning Thin & Dark lenses. The Thin and Dark will get darker than the other lenses, but these do not get as dark as the Transitions in a polycarbonate lens material.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products and services - Replacement Glass Lenses

  • It’s simple: you choose your lenses online, send us your frames, and we professionally install brand-new lenses. Our optical lab handles cutting, edging, and mounting the lenses to fit your frame perfectly. Once complete, we ship your glasses back to you ready to wear. Most orders are finished and returned in a few weeks after we receive your frame. Once completed we will email updated tracking information.

  • No. Replacement lenses allow you to keep the frames you already love. As long as your frame is in good condition, we can install new lenses without requiring a new purchase. Many customers replace lenses in designer or favorite frames they don’t want to give up.

  • We offer replacement lenses for single vision, reading, bifocal, trifocal, and progressive designs. You can also choose high-index glass for stronger prescriptions, anti-reflective coatings, polarized sun lenses, transitions, and more. You get the same optical quality found in new glasses — just mounted into your existing frame.

  • Production and shipping times depend on your frame and lens type:

    Turnaround time is typically 10-15 business days from the moment we receive your frame. If it is one of our frames or a frame that we have done lenses for in the past, it shaves time off production.

    Complex prescriptions, specialty coatings, or high-index materials may take a little longer, but most orders are completed quickly. We will notify you if we have any issues with our lab or the prescription job we are completing for your frames.

  • Yes. Replacement lenses are often much more affordable than buying new frames and lenses. If you already have a frame that fits comfortably, replacing lenses is the smartest option. Many customers save 30–60% compared to buying new glasses, especially with designer frames.

    1. Email: The most efficient way of getting information is sending your request with your order number to our email - sales@glasslenseyewear.com
    2. Live Chat or Phone: Contact customer service via Live Chat on our website or call us at 484.773.0285 for updates.
    3. Email Notification: You’ll receive a tracking number via email once your order is finalized.
  • Sending your frames ensures the best results for your lens order:

    1. Perfect Fit: Your frames are precisely traced to cut lenses to the exact shape and size needed.
    2. Safety: Lenses are pre-installed in your frames, reducing the risk of damage during shipping.

    This process guarantees a professional fit and long-lasting quality for your new lenses.

  • Segment Height is the vertical measurement from the bottom of your lens to the top of the segment line in multifocal or progressive lenses. It ensures the transition between lens zones (distance, intermediate, and near) aligns with your natural line of sight.

    How to Measure Segment Height:

    1. Wear your chosen frames: Ensure they sit comfortably in your natural position.
    2. Stand in front of a mirror or have someone assist: Measure from the bottom edge of the lens to the center of your pupil.
    3. Get a professional fitting: An optician typically measures segment height during an in-store fitting for the most accurate results.

    * * * DETAILS ON HOW TO MEASURE FOR PROGRESSIVE'S * * *


    * * * DETAILS ON HOW TO MEASURE FOR LINED BIFOCAL'S * * *

  • Pupil Distance (PD) is the distance, measured in millimeters, between the centers of your pupils. It ensures that the lenses in your glasses are correctly aligned with your eyes, providing clear and comfortable vision.

    How to Measure PD:

    • Measure Your Own PD: Stand 8 inches from a mirror, close one eye, and use a ruler to measure from the center of one pupil to the other.
    • With a Friend’s Help: Ask a friend to measure your PD while you keep your eyes still, looking at a distant object.

    * * * OPEN THIS LINK FOR STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS * * *

    Remember to measure your PD 3–4 times for accuracy. The average adult PD range is 54–74mm, and for children, it’s 43–58mm.

  • After placing your lens replacement order, you’ll receive instructions on where to ship your frame. Typically, frames are sent to:

    Glass Lens Eyewear
    LENS REPLACEMENT
    26 Broadway
    Bangor PA 18013

    Make sure to include your order confirmation inside the package for reference.

    Note: Please do not include any cases with your frames. Glass Lens Eyewear is not responsible for any cases that are lost during production if sent by the customer.

    We recommend shipping your frames back to us and obtain a valid tracking number from the carrier and make sure you ensure it for its value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products and services - Details & Policies

  • All returns require a Returned Material Authorization (RMA) number.  We have a few methods for you to contact us for your request:

    1. Go to your order and select Request Return.  This is in your account or on the order confirmation mailed to you.  MAKE sure you type the reason for the return.
    2. Contact our customer service representative via email at sales@glasslenseyewear.com to obtain an RMA number prior to returning the product.
    3. Go to our Live Chat at glasslenseyewear.com and request to speak to a rep to receive a RMA number.
    4. Call us at 484.773.0285 to speak with one of our courteous representatives.

    Products will not be accepted for return if not accompanied by a valid RMA number, which must be clearly marked on the outside of the package or included in the package. Products returned without a RMA will be sent back to the customer as is.

    SEE OUR FULL POLICY

  • ORDER CANCELLATION

    No prescription order can be canceled once it enters our lab; however, if you wish to cancel your order before it goes into the lab (usually in less than one business day), there might be a $15 cancellation fee to account for clerical time and card processing fees. 

  • Yes, we ship to most countries worldwide. Shipping costs and delivery times vary by location. NOTE: We are not responsible for any additional Duties/Taxes/Customs charges.

  • Yes, you can simply make a purchase as a Guest. However, if you choose to create an account, you will be able to save your prescription information and other preferences that will make future shopping at Glass Lens eyewear simpler and more convenient.

  • Most competitors do not own their own lab and must purchase your prescription lenses from an outside optical lab. Our supplier houses two full prescription optical labs, one for plastic and the other for glass. Because of this, we cut out the middle-man, allowing us to offer lower retail prices.

  • We do have a storefront in Bangor PA where we stock a broad range of our frames as well as an abundance of finished glasses. You can also purchase frames for fit. If you are not satisfied with the frame you can return for a full refund or we can send out another you may be interested in.

  • For most vision insurance plans, Glass Lens Eyewear will be considered an out-of-network provider; however, you can submit your purchase for reimbursement by following the steps outlined on our Vision Insurance informational page. Email us and we will send you complete details on a variety of insurance companies. ALSO, let us know if you need a special receipt to submit to your insurance company.

  • Whether or not you have vision insurance, flex spending and health insurance account funds can, in fact, be used for prescription eyewear. Contact our Courteous staff for additional information.

  • Your glasses will be shipped via UPS 2nd Day Air or FedEx 2Day when they are finished, but your shipping option does not affect the order’s processing time. These are special made prescription orders that take time to produce. Most prescription orders take a few weeks to be processed prior to shipping. Our glass reading glasses normally take about 3-5 days to process and ship, because of the variety of frame styles, shapes and powers.

    Once shipped Glass Lens Eyewear will send valid tracking information so you can track your package.

  • Yes, because of trade restrictions, there are a few countries that we cannot ship to. We will inform you if you attempting to ship to a location we cannot ship to at this time.
    There are also a few particular brands that we are not allowed to export, and we will let you know of this, as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products and services - General Information

  • Yes, all of our prescription eyewear comes with a case and microfiber pouch.

  • Anti-reflective (AR) and anti-glare coatings are one and the same coating. It’s a coating that helps minimize light reflections that occur on both sides of your glasses.

    It is imperative to get an (AR) coating if you have a strong prescription and if you are doing a lot of computer work. (AR) coating also assists with your night driving issues.

  • It takes some time to adjust to wearing progressive lenses. Because there are different corrective powers within the lenses, your eyes and your mind will need to learn to adjust. Often it will take a week or more to completely adjust.


    If you continue to have problems, but your eye doctor is able to verify that the prescription is accurate, it may be that the frames simply aren’t sitting correctly on your face and can be adjusted to fit more precisely.

  • Photochromic lenses have to be exposed to direct UV rays before they will change. Depending upon weather conditions they may get more or less dark from day to day.


    Photochromic lenses will not darken in a car, because most windshields have UV filters built into them. These lenses will also not get as dark as the transitions made of plastic lens material.


  • Wraparound frames and frames with large lenses have limits when it comes to prescription capabilities. Wraparounds can cause distortion for stronger prescriptions because of the curvature of the lens. Frames with larger lenses (including wraparounds) also have limits on what pupil distances will work in them. This has to do with the size of our lens blanks; we can only move your optical center so far from the center of an uncut lens while maintaining enough room to edge it to the shape of your frame. This is especially true for bifocal prescriptions.


  • You can clean your glasses with warm water and a mild dish soap, and then dry them with a soft cotton towel or a special microfiber cleaning cloth made for glasses. You can remove any build-up from around the nose-pads using a soft toothbrush.

    In general you should avoid using rough materials like paper towels to dry your glasses, which can scratch your lenses as well as your frames. Real glass lenses are much more forgiving and easier to clean than the plastic lens materials.



  • Never keep your glasses in a hot vehicle, as the high heat could damage the frame. Always store your glasses in the microfiber pouch and use a case to protect your glasses when you’re not using them.


  • Our Safety Glasses offer exceptional clarity, natural scratch resistance, and enhanced UV protection — ideal for outdoor work, construction sites, driving, welding environments, landscaping, and high-glare conditions. NOTE: They are ANSI Z87.1 approved, but are not approved and tested for impact resistance.





  • SELECT HERE FOR FULL DETIALS ON HOW TO CLEAN GLASSES IN 5 EASY STEPS:

    1. Wash and dry your hands
    2. Rinse your glasses under the tap with lukewarm water
    3. Apply dish soap on lenses, then gently rub lenses and frame
    4. Rinse your glasses again
    5. Dry it with a clean microfiber cloth or lint-free towel
  • SELECT HERE TO LEARN THE BEST GLASSES FOR EACH FACE SHAPE

    Understanding your face shape aids in selecting glasses that complement your features. Frames can accentuate desired features or harmonize with your face's natural contours for a balanced appearance.