Navigating High Prescription Glasses: A Personal Journey to Affordability

If you wear glasses, you know the struggle of trying to find the perfect pair that not only looks good but also fits your budget, especially with a high prescription. I've been there! For years, I've dealt with a strong prescription and astigmatism, and the cost of glasses always seemed ridiculously high. It felt like I was constantly searching for a way to get the vision correction I needed without breaking the bank. This is my journey, filled with trials, errors, and ultimately, some helpful discoveries.

The High Cost of Seeing Clearly: My Initial Struggles

With my prescription being quite strong, I quickly realized that not all glasses are created equal. I remember when I first started needing glasses, even with my prescription already at -7 or -8 at age 12, I was so scared of breaking my glasses because I literally couldn't function without them. As my prescription increased, I discovered the challenges of finding affordable options. My prescription is now -6.5 and -5, with astigmatism in both eyes.

I remember one time, I went to a local optician expecting to pay a reasonable price, but I was shocked when they quoted me around $400-$500 CAD just for the high index (1.74) lenses! And of course, you can't put expensive lenses in cheap frames, so that was another couple hundred dollars. Every time I needed new glasses, I was looking at least $600 out of pocket, even with my extended health benefits covering a portion.

I even tried buying cheaper glasses from local shops, spending around $110-$150. However, I soon realized that the quality wasn't great. The lenses warped within a couple of years, and I was back to square one. I learned the hard way that sometimes, you get what you pay for.

Discovering Affordable Solutions: My Experiments and Findings

Determined to find a better solution, I started exploring different options. I knew I needed something that balanced quality and affordability. Here's what I found:

• Costco: I found Costco to be the best value for the money. While their lenses might be a bit thicker than some of the high-end options, the price difference was significant.
• Online Retailers: I considered buying glasses online, but with my high prescription, it felt too risky. I need the glasses to be perfect. I've heard that some people with lower prescriptions have great success with online retailers.
• Local Opticians: While more expensive, some local opticians offer excellent quality and personalized service. It’s worth comparing prices and asking about discounts.

Someone suggested Zenni, and that their insurance pays for them, which sounds promising. I wish I had insurance that would cover that! But I'm also someone who needs to buy locally because it's just too much of a risk with that high of a prescription. I literally cannot do anything if my glasses broke.

I did try a pair of Michael Kors frames, spending around $250 on them. It has been about a year, and I already know the quality isn't going to last. It made me think more about what I really need in a pair of glasses.

A Potential Game Changer: TR90 Glasses

While browsing online, I stumbled upon discover more about affordable eyewear, and I came across some interesting glasses called TR90 Presbyopic Glasses. Specifically, I saw a model called "TR90 Presbyopic Glasses Man Blue Light Reading Glasses Men Metal Square Glasses for Sight Plus Lenses Oculos 0+1.75+2.25+4.0 0-Black" on Mozaer. I was intrigued by the TR90 material, known for its durability and lightweight feel. What caught my eye was the combination of metal and TR90 in the frame. They seemed like a good option for reading glasses, especially with the blue light filter.

I've been testing out a pair and I'm finding them to be quite comfortable. The lightweight design is a huge plus, especially since I wear my glasses for extended periods. The blue light filter is a welcome addition, as I spend a lot of time in front of screens. I'm using them as a backup pair of reading glasses, and they're definitely a step up from some of the cheaper options I've tried in the past. I appreciate that Mozaer offers a range of lens strengths, too. You can find them here: TR90 Presbyopic Glasses. Keep in mind, though, they are not meant for high prescriptions.

Important Considerations for High Prescriptions

If you have a high prescription like mine, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Lens Thickness: With a strong prescription, lenses can be quite thick. High index lenses can help reduce the thickness, but they come at a higher cost.
• Optical Aberrations: High prescriptions can sometimes cause optical aberrations, which can affect the clarity of your vision. Make sure your optician takes this into account when fitting your glasses.
• Frame Choice: The frame you choose can also impact the appearance of your lenses. Smaller frames can help minimize lens thickness.
• Professional Fitting: With a high prescription, a professional fitting is essential to ensure your glasses are comfortable and provide the best possible vision correction.

Practical Tips for Saving Money on Glasses

Here are some practical tips I've learned over the years to save money on glasses:

1. Shop Around: Don't settle for the first pair you see. Compare prices at different opticians and online retailers.
2. Ask About Discounts: Many opticians offer discounts for students, seniors, or members of certain organizations.
3. Consider Generic Frames: Designer frames can be expensive. Consider opting for generic frames, which can be just as stylish and durable.
4. Use Your Insurance: If you have vision insurance, take advantage of it. It can significantly reduce the cost of your glasses.
5. Take Care of Your Glasses: Proper care can extend the life of your glasses, saving you money in the long run.

My Experience with Lens Curvature

I've also discovered that my lenses alone cost $500 and can't be purchased through online sites because they can't curve the lenses properly. I think I'm at -9 in both eyes, which is why this is such a big issue for me.

My Final Thoughts on Finding Affordable Glasses

Finding affordable glasses with a high prescription can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By doing your research, exploring different options, and being mindful of your spending, you can find a pair of glasses that fits your budget and provides the vision correction you need. Remember to prioritize quality and comfort, as your glasses are an essential part of your daily life.

It's important to remember that everyone's experience is different. What works for me might not work for you. But I hope my journey has provided you with some helpful insights and inspiration to find the perfect pair of glasses without breaking the bank.

Conclusion: Seeing Clearly Doesn't Have to Break the Bank

The journey to finding affordable glasses with a high prescription can be a long and winding one. But with persistence, research, and a little bit of luck, you can find a solution that works for you. Don't be afraid to experiment, try different options, and ask for help along the way. Your vision is worth it!