Getting an eyeglasses prescription can be life-changing, especially if you’ve been suffering through years of headaches and eyestrain. However, staying on top of that prescription is essential, as glasses prescriptions are typically only valid for 1–2 years after an eye exam. This is because our eyes continue to change as we age, so regular eye exams to account for adjustments allow your prescription to adapt as your eyes do.
The Lifespan of Prescription Lenses
Your glasses prescription doesn’t last forever. Prescriptions typically expire between 1 and 2 years from the date it was issued—but the specific timeframe depends on several factors. These include your state or country’s regulations and your optometrist’s recommendations based on your eye health.
Where To Find Your Glasses Prescription Expiration Date
Want to know when your prescription expires? You can usually find the expiration date in one of these places:
- On the prescription itself: Always check the paperwork your eye doctor gave you—it will often include the issue and expiration dates.
- Your prescription details are on file with your optometrist. If you can’t find it, call your optometrist. We’ll have your prescription details in our records.
If you’re overdue for an update, you might be risking your eyes or using glasses that simply don’t work as well as they should.
Why Do Eyeglass Prescriptions Expire?
You might be wondering why prescriptions can’t last forever—after all, your glasses still seem to help you see clearly, right? Here’s why eye prescriptions have a shelf life:
- Regular vision changes: Your vision changes over time, sometimes so gradually that you don’t notice. Regular eye exams ensure your prescription is accurate and your glasses do their job.
- Eye health monitoring: Besides vision correction, routine eye exams help detect potential eye health issues such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Early detection can make a world of difference in treatment.
- Legal and safety requirements: Regulatory bodies often mandate expiration dates to protect patients’ health and keep prescriptions current.
Can I Get Glasses With an Expired Prescription?
Most optical retailers will not allow you to purchase new glasses with an expired prescription. This might seem inconvenient, but it’s for a good reason! They want to ensure your new glasses meet your current vision needs.
If your prescription has expired, the first step is to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist. After your updated prescription is ready, you’ll have what you need to order your new lenses.
Why Is It Important to Wear an Up-to-Date Prescription?
Wearing glasses with an outdated prescription might not seem like a big deal, but it can have a variety of negative consequences for your vision and overall health:
- Eyestrain and headaches: Outdated lenses force your eyes to work harder to focus, leading to discomfort and frequent headaches.
- Blurred vision: Over time, you might find it harder to read, drive, or focus clearly, especially in dim lighting.
- Delayed detection of eye conditions: Regular checkups when updating your prescription help catch eye problems early, protecting your long-term vision.
If you’ve experienced these symptoms, consider updating your prescription and getting new lenses. This will also help with any visible wear and tear on your current glasses that occurs through use. Scratched, smudged, or damaged lenses can also impact clarity, even if your prescription is accurate.
What Do I Do if My Glasses Prescription Is Out of Date?
If your prescription has expired or you suspect you need a new one, here’s what to do next:
- Schedule an eye exam: Book an appointment with us to check your eyes and update your prescription.
- Browse frame options: Consider upgrading your style with a new pair of frames or stick with your trusted favorites.
- Purchase your new lenses: Once your updated prescription is ready, order your new glasses and enjoy improved vision and comfort.
Benefits of Buying New Glasses from an Optometrist
While many people consider using their prescriptions to buy glasses online to save money, to really get the most out of your money, buy your new lenses directly from your optometrist.
- Accurate Prescription: We ensure that your glasses have the most accurate and up-to-date prescription tailored to your vision needs. This precision enhances comfort, reduces eye strain, and improves visual clarity.
- Customized Fit: Purchasing glasses from us includes professional fittings. This guarantees that your frames and lenses sit comfortably and align correctly with your eyes for optimal performance.
- Access to Expert Advice: We can help you select frames that suit your face shape, lifestyle, and prescription. We can also advise on different lens options, such as blue light filtering or anti-glare coatings, to maximize functionality.
- Quality Assurance: Our glasses meet high-quality and durability standards. Plus, we offer warranties or adjustments, providing peace of mind with your purchase.
- One-Stop Convenience: By purchasing glasses directly from us, you save time and simplify the process, combining your eye exam with access to a range of frame and lens options in one convenient location.
Many optometrists now offer online booking, making it easier than ever to schedule your next exam. Plus, some eyewear retailers even offer discounts for combining an eye exam with a new pair of glasses, giving you both savings and stylish new specs.
Keep Your Vision Clear and Healthy
Your glasses prescription is key to maintaining clear vision and protecting your long-term eye health. Keeping your prescription current will improve your comfort and catch any potential eye issues early. At Eclectic Eyewear, we encourage all our patients to have regular comprehensive eye exams that allow for updated eyeglass prescriptions as needed to take better care of their eye health. Contact us today to schedule your next eye exam and get an updated prescription.
