consumer guide to eyewear

Eyeglasses come in a wide range of price ranges, from $70 for basic eyewear to well over $1000 for exclusive brands.

Discount Retailers

You’ll undoubtedly see advertisements for “TWO PAIRS OF GLASSES AND AN EXAM FOR $89!” from discount retailers. Discount eyeglass retailers may sell eyewear at the lowest cost but that they usually also provide the worst overall service, quality and speed. Many patients report disappointment using discounters when it comes to the performance of their frames. Discounters often use polycarbonate lenses which do not provide the clearest or most comfortable vision.

Discount eyeglass sellers are able to provide low prices by purchasing discontinued, poorly manufactured or unauthorized frames and old technology lenses in large lots. Because the manufacturer no longer produces the frames, these frames are essentially disposable; when the frames break, they often not repairable by the seller. Similarly, lens designs that were outdated years ago are still being sold by discounters.

In the marketing world, savvy advertisers understand that a sales pitch such as “TWO FOR ONE,” “50% OFF FRAMES,” and “SAVE $100” will grab your interest. However, once these special offers are applied to inflated retail prices, the final price is often more expensive than prices for high quality eyewear found at independent opticians.

Comparison Shopping and Brand Names

Our best advice is to purchase your eyewear where you feel the most confident in the optician’s professionalism, knowledge and ability to design and accurately fill your prescription. Reputable opticians working with your eye doctor to expertly advise you on products offered in your best interest and keep you seeing your very best is what our reputation has been based on for the past 90 years. When you want caring experience, expert technology balanced with good dollar value we hope you will give us a try.

Guarantees and Warranties

Guarantees and warranties vary widely by optical store, with some stores providing these at no charge, while others will provide warranty coverage for a fee of $30–$50. Medical Eye Center provides the following guarantees and warranties at no cost:

  • A satisfaction guarantee allowing you to return your glasses, for any reason, within 90 days of purchase for a full refund.
  • A one-year warranty on any scratch coating purchase you make, limited to one free remake per lens.
  • A one-year warranty on any anti-reflective coating purchase you make, limited to one free remake per lens.
  • Free cleaning, adjustments, hinge screw replacements and nose pad replacements for the life of your glasses.

We guarantee you'll be happy!