Find answers about Lenses and common questions & concerns of Go-Optic.com customers related to optical, vision, ordering information and more.
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Start adding lenses by selecting a new frame or using your own glasses using our lens replacement service.
Click the Add Lenses button on any prescription-eligible eyewear to start adding lenses.
Using our lens replacement service, customers can send us their glasses, and we'll send them back with new lenses crafted and installed.
The added lenses will not be the same color or tint as the original factory sun lenses. A sun option must be selected, or the lenses added will be clear.
The easy 4-step lens ordering tool will help guide you to make the best lens selection for your order. Each step groups the different configurations with helpful descriptions as well as the availability and price that may change based on the prior step option selected.
Lenses are highly configurable devices with various available and restricted options. The lenses shown in this step may be restricted based on the frame type selected (i.e., Rimless glasses). The lens selection is generally based on the preferences, budget, and needs of the wearer.
Select your lenses in 4 easy steps:
Single-vision, multifocal or non-prescription
Choose whether the lens is single vision (distance or near), progressives, bifocals, trifocals, or non-prescription.
Lens type guideClear, sun-sensitive, or polarized sun
The sun option brand names may be exclusive only to certain lens brands. However, many of these sun features may function similarly across brands. Select a sun option based on brand familiarity or functionality.
Select "Clear" if no sun option is desired, or to add standard solid or gradient custom tinting in the following step. (only available for tintable materials)
Weight, thickness & strength (and clarity)
The lens material controls how thick and heavy the lens will be; some materials offer impact resistance and include UV and scratch protection. For strong prescriptions, when thinner lenses are selected, the aberration value should be considered as this relates to the amount of light that passes through the lens material, making the vision more true to normal or less distorted.
Lens thickness chart Lens material feature guideBrands, designs, and coating options
Brand:
The brand is typically the customer's preference to meet certain expectations with comfort or familiarity. The brand also has its own exclusive options and coatings, which may be essential when ordering lenses.
Coating options:
The coating options may vary based on the lens brand but may offer similar functionality across the brands. Some lenses may also be packaged with included coatings. If a specific coating brand is desired, the respective lens brand would need to be selected.
Series & Designs:
Each lens brand may label the lenses in certain designs with different series names. Some of these include designs or options like digital (freeform), blue-light, and anti-fatigue options that are generally available across various premium lens brands.
For progressive lenses, the lens series may also refer to the design of the vision corridors and adaptability for certain lifestyles. Some progressive lenses may emphasize distance, intermediate, or near vision more than others, which are more commonly worn every day.
For bifocal/trifocal lenses, the design focuses on the shape and size of the reading window (i.e. Flat-top 28, FT-35)
Lens options may vary based on the lens selected.
Enhance your lenses by adding coatings and tints, upgrading the lens material, or a sun option. Specific options may have an extra cost, and some may be included in the lens package. Use the order review panel to get a price breakdown of selected options.
Selections
Required options for select lenses.
Standard coatings
Standard coatings may be found included in certain lens materials, anti-glare coatings, or may be added individually for an extra cost.
Anti-Glare coating
Anti-glare coating brands may vary on the lens brand or sun option. This coating comes included in select lenses or may be added for an extra cost. Easily compare the features of each coating during this step. Additional features are bundled in select anti-glare coatings, including the following.
Color tint
Not to be confused with sun options. Custom color tinting is only available for Clear tintable lenses as an extra add-on. Choose from any color in a desired darkness (may vary by lens material) in three different tint options:
Sun or Material Upgrades
Use this opportunity to see upgradeable options for the lens selected.
Skip this step if ordering plano non-prescription lenses.
The patient and verification option is required for the prescription order.
The patient's full name must be the same as written on the prescription. This is used to verify the patient's order with the prescription.
We offer multiple ways to provide prescription verification (Email, Text/SMS, Fax), or you can provide your doctor's information, and we'll call to get it. Alternatively, a prescription on file may be used without requiring additional verification.
Verification optionsThe prescription details may be left blank; our verification staff will do the rest.
Providing the prescription parameters is not required. However, it may be entered online if desired. Our verification staff will input the information or make any necessary corrections upon manually reviewing the prescription.
All parameters supportedThe pupillary distance or the distance between the pupils may be provided as a single number (binocular) or two separate numbers for each eye (monocular).
Note: Many phone apps measure the PD. We suggest taking multiple readings for consistency.
Instead of providing an eyeglass prescription, select the "Readers Only" option if ordering readers. A valid prescription or verification is not required.
Select the reading power desired for the readers.
Use the additional comments section to provide any information to be reviewed by the verification department.
The following step will be the shopping cart page, where the customer may proceed to the checkout screen to submit their order.
For any assistance with our lens selection, please contact our Lens Specialists
The lens index determines the lens thickness, with higher indexes offering thinner, flatter, and lighter lenses, ideal for stronger prescriptions. Consider the recommended prescription ranges for each index to ensure suitability. Choose the right index for your prescription to optimize thickness and visual aesthetics.
Plus (+) prescriptions may have a thicker center, while minus (-) prescriptions have a thinner center, influenced by the lens index. Examples shown below:
| Material | Index | Abbe | Thickness 1 | Best for Rx's 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR-39 Plastic | 1.50 | 58 | Standard | SPH: 0.00 to 2.50CYL: 0.00 to 2.00 |
| Trivex | 1.53 | 43 | 10% Thinner | SPH: 0.00 to 2.50CYL: 0.00 to 2.00 |
| Polycarbonate | 1.58 | 30 | 20% Thinner | SPH: 0.00 to 4.00CYL: 0.00 to 2.00 |
| Mid-Index 1.56 | 1.56 | 39 | 15% Thinner | SPH: 0.00 to 3.00CYL: 0.00 to 2.00 |
| Hi-Index 1.60 | 1.60 | 37 | 25% Thinner | SPH: 2.00 to 4.00CYL: 0.00 to 2.00 |
| Hi-Index 1.67 | 1.67 | 32 | 40% Thinner | SPH: 4.00 to 8.00CYL: 0.00 to 4.00 |
| Hi-Index 1.74 | 1.74 | 33 | 50% Thinner | SPH: 6.00 and aboveCYL: 0.00 to 4.00 |
The ABBE or Aberration value describes the amount of chromatic aberration of an ophthalmic lens. The higher the number, the less amount of aberration and better visual performance and peripheral vision. Standard CR-39 plastic has the highest ABBE value and offers the best visual performance. Meanwhile, the Polycarbonate material has the lowest ABBE value and offers the least. The ABBE values are fairly similar or the same across the different lens brands offered.
1 Thinner up to the advertised amount when compared to standard plastic CR-39 (1.50) index lenses. The maximum thinness amount may vary based on prescription strength.
2 Lenses outside of the recommended range (plus or minus powers) may be subject to custom surfacing delays and additional costs.
Options and eligibility for adding prescription lenses to ophthalmic glasses may vary based on the frame type. The following displays the different types of frames and what to consider when ordering lenses.
Plastic full-rimmed frames are well-suited for stronger prescriptions that may necessitate thicker-edged lenses, as they effectively conceal the lens thickness. This not only enhances the cosmetic appearance but also provides a more aesthetically pleasing result compared to other frame materials.
Opting for thin-edged lenses is advisable, particularly with metal frames, as metal frames tend to expose the lens edge more than plastic frames. Thin edges contribute to a sleeker and more refined appearance in such cases.
Semi-rim glasses, also known as nylor or half-rim frames, necessitate lens edge grooving to accommodate the rim notch and wire for stability and reinforcement. Adequate space is crucial to facilitate wire grooving without compromising the thickness of the lens edge. Opting for durable materials like polycarbonate or Trivex is recommended to enhance durability and minimize chipping.
Given that a portion of the lens is exposed without the protection of a full rim, there is an increased susceptibility to chipping. Therefore, handling these lenses with extra care is essential. Additionally, implementing edge polishing can contribute to improved cosmetic appearance and overall lens aesthetics.
Lightweight rimless glasses feature lenses that are drilled and mounted onto the nosepiece and hinge. To ensure durability, it is essential to use lenses made of Polycarbonate, Trivex, or Hi-Index (1.67+). Please note that an additional fee for the drilling and mounting process will be applied when placing a lens order.
Given that lenses in rimless glasses are fully exposed, they are more susceptible to chipping and damage. Therefore, it is crucial to handle them with extra care. In cases where screw-in mounting is used, occasional tightening may be necessary if they become loose. Additionally, the application of edge polishing can enhance the overall cosmetic appearance of these glasses.
Flat-based sunglasses, characterized by a base curve of 4 (the lowest), are well-suited for individuals with all prescription strengths, including stronger prescriptions. The flatter lens design minimizes distortion and effectively reduces the "coke-bottle" effect often associated with stronger prescriptions. This frame type is particularly advantageous when paired with aspheric lenses, offering an ideal combination for clear vision and enhanced aesthetics.
Mid-wrap frames, featuring a base curve of 6, exhibit a slightly greater curvature compared to standard frames with a base curve of 4. These mid-wrap-around frames are capable of accommodating prescriptions up to ± 4.00. The increased curvature is designed to provide a subtle wrap-around effect, offering both style and support for a range of prescriptions. The maximum prescription strength is contingent on the pupillary distance PD measurement, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurements for optimal lens fitting in these frames.
Steep wrap-around frames, characterized by a base curve of 8+, are specifically designed for a pronounced wrap-around effect. However, these frames are suitable only for light prescriptions, supporting strengths up to ± 2.00. The maximum prescription strength is contingent on the pupillary distance PD measurement, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurements for optimal lens fitting in these frames.
The maximum width for blank lenses is 70 millimeters, meaning frames larger than 65 millimeters cannot accommodate additional lenses; this may be based on the PD measurement. For thick-edged (minus) lenses, opting for a thinner design is advised, as wider lenses tend to be thicker. Therefore, oversized frames are more suitable for lighter prescriptions, up to ± 2.00, ensuring optimal aesthetics and performance.
As of now, single or double-lensed shields are not currently eligible for prescription lenses. Blank prescription lenses are typically available conventionally in a round shape with a maximum width of 70 millimeters per lens/eye. Shields, due to their specific design, are not suitable for conventional prescription lenses. Some shield manufacturers may provide adapters or inserts that can fit behind the shield, but in such cases, lenses must be added separately to the insert or adapter.
Goggles are not eligible for prescription lenses at this time. Please see the Shields section for further details.
High-performance or active sports styles are currently not eligible for prescription lenses due to the unconventional nature of the frame and the unique method by which the lens is attached and reinforced to the frame. These frames are not designed to support the standard format of traditional prescription lenses. For additional information, please refer to the Shields section.
Polycarbonate or Trivex lens materials are suggested and, in some cases, required for children and younger adults under 16.
Polycarbonate or Trivex lens materials are impact-resistant, which makes them great for sports and physical activities.
Polarized lenses are recommended for outdoor water activities because they help reduce glare off water surfaces.
Polarized lenses are recommended for outdoor snow activities because they help reduce glare off surfaces and objects like ice and snow.
Non-Polarized lenses like a traditional custom color tint or sun-sensitive lenses are recommended since polarized lenses may make all screens being viewed blacked out.
Safety & Protective (PPE) eyewear is made from Polycarbonate or Trivex lens materials for their impact-resistant properties.
Anti-Glare coating is recommended to help reduce glare from headlights and oncoming traffic.
Adding 10% Rose tint helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.
Blue-light protection helps block harmful blue-light emitted from phones, tablets and screens that can lead to tired eyes.
Blue-light protection helps block harmful blue-light emitted from phones, tablets and screens that can lead to tired eyes.
Yellow or brown tinted lenses enhance contrast.
Polycarbonate or Trivex lens materials are lightweight in almost any prescription.
Anti-Glare coating is recommended to help reduce lens edge distortion.
Hi-index lenses (1.67 or 1.74) are suggested to minimize thickness.
Great for traditional sunglass use. Offers even color perception and provides good contrast for low-light conditions while dimming glare and brightening shadows. Along with grey, these are the darkest lenses available.
Suggested for: General dark-tinted sunglasses
Great for traditional sunglass use. Darkest option available. Provides true color perception while dimming light in brighter-than-normal conditions.
Suggested for: Privacy General dark-tinted sunglasses
Great for traditional sunglass use. Enhances contrast which improves depth perception.
Suggested for: Driving Shooting General sunglasses
Great contrast. Helps reduce eye-strain and increases visual depth.
Suggested for: Reading Snow Driving
Great for low-light conditions like fog and haze. Helps filter out blue light which makes them great for gaming and looking at screens for extended periods of time.
Suggested for: Gaming Computers Shooting
Fashion color also helps against high glare conditions.
Suggested for: Fashion High-glare
Helps reduce glare and eye fatigue. Offering enhanced definition and color perception. Great for reading.
Suggested for: Reading Snow
Digital (FreeForm) lenses are made digitally, whereas traditional lenses are conventionally ground. Digital lenses aim to optimize visual performance by reducing distortions, correcting aberrations, and offering a more natural and comfortable viewing experience.
Digital lenses may be made digitally on both the back and front sides of the lens or only the back side of the lens. Both front and backside digital lenses are referred to as "Freeform" lenses.
FreeForm Digital (Both sides)
FreeForm digital lenses apply digital technology to both the front and back surfaces of the lens and offer a higher degree of customization than standard digital backside-only lenses.
Digital Backside only:
The digital technology is applied to the back surface of the lens, which is the side facing the eye. The front surface of the lens remains conventionally ground.
Lenses with Reading Boost, also known as reading enhancement, anti-fatigue, or advanced single-vision lenses, provide additional magnification at the lower portion of the lens for near-vision tasks, such as reading or other close-up activities. These lenses benefit individuals who may experience difficulty with small print or fine details as they age, a condition often associated with presbyopia.
Reading boost lenses are similar to mild progressive lenses and are generally intended for adults under 50 who may not need all that a progressive lens offers. And also someone who would like to enjoy lower prices than what your ordinary progressive lens can cost.
The powers available for reading boost may vary based on the lens brand.
| Lens brand | Powers available |
|---|---|
| Essilor Eyezen | +0.40, +0.60, +0.85, +1.10 |
| ZEISS SmartLife Digital | +0.50, +0.75, +1.00, +1.25 |
| Hoya Sync III | +0.57, +0.95, +1.32 |
It is suggested to add Anti-glare when ordering aspheric lenses to help reduce distortion.
Computer progressive lenses, also known as computer lenses or occupational progressive lenses, are specialized eyeglasses designed to optimize vision for intermediate and close-up distances, specifically for extended computer use. Computer progressive lenses only have intermediate and near vision capabilities. Distance vision is not supported in Computer progressive lenses, as it uses the distance area to expand the intermediate vision. These lenses address the unique visual demands associated with digital devices and the working distances typically encountered during computer work.
Bifocal & trifocal lenses come in various designs to address different vision needs. The lower part for near vision has a flat or straight top line, creating a visible segment in the lens. Trifocals and Occupational lenses include an additional segment for intermediate vision. Choosing the right design depends on individual preferences and lifestyle.
The flat top (FT) or straight top (ST) bifocal near-vision window is 28 millimeters wide across the top. This is the most common bifocal type.
The flat top (FT) or straight top (ST) bifocal near-vision window is 35 millimeters wide across the top for a broader field of near vision.
The flattop bifocal near-vision window across the entire lens bottom is for the broadest field of near vision. This makes them suitable for tasks that require extensive near vision, like reading or computer work.
The near-vision segment is a round shape, providing a smoother transition between the distance and near prescriptions. The RS24 has a bifocal segment of 24 millimeters wide.
The Occupational lens is designed for specific tasks or occupations, with customized prescriptions for intermediate and near vision, often without a visible line.
The Flat top (FT) 7x28 offers a magnification power of 7 times for close-up vision and 28-millimeter width for the intermediate and near vision segments. Trifocal lenses typically have three distinct prescription zones separated by visible lines – the upper part for distance vision, the middle for intermediate vision, and the lower segment for close-up tasks. This design is beneficial for individuals with presbyopia, addressing the need for clear vision at various distances.
Higher-quality progressive lenses generally have a higher price tag and provide a better vision experience.
Higher-quality progressive lenses offer solutions optimized to suit the individual's lifestyle, significantly enhancing the ease of using progressive lenses.
Key features include:
Aside from these features, progressive lenses have the same features as any other lens concerning a lens's core features like the material (weight, thickness, and strength), sun option, and coatings that may also improve the visual experience. Please refer to our extensive lens help guide for further details about these other features.
More information regarding the different progressive lens brands and designs may be found directly on the manufacturer's websites below.
Each progressive lens is available in either a Standard, Short, or Variable corridor design.
A lens corridor, also known as the "corridor length" or "progressive corridor," refers to the middle portion of a progressive lens where the power changes gradually from the distance prescription to the reading or near prescription.
Freeform digital lenses are usually available as variable design corridors. Variable design corridors enhance the progression to the reading area by optimizing the corridor length based on Rx specifications, frame measurements, and segment height.
Most progressive lenses are designed with a general balance, prioritizing distance and near vision while offering only limited support for intermediate vision. However, some advanced lens designs shift the emphasis to suit the wearer’s specific needs better.
These include:
Lens quality grades were created to help identify the different quality of lenses across various lens brands. The grades only apply to progressive lenses at this time.
| Progressive Lens Quality Grades | |
|---|---|
Standard |
Traditional (legacy) progressive lens designs or value brands are generally introduction-level progressives and the most affordable. |
Advanced |
The Advanced-grade mostly includes digital progressive lens options that are typically considered better than standard traditional options. |
Premium |
The Premium grade mostly includes all the freeform digital progressive lens options which are considered better and more customizable than the Advanced options. |
Elite |
The most high-end progressive lens options available typically include freeform digital design and other qualities that make them classified in the highest tier of progressive lens options available with the highest level of customization available. These lenses are known to offer the best lens experience and adaptability. |
Our lab has over 40 years of optical experience crafting bifocal, trifocal, and progressive lenses. We use a proprietary fitting formula that is calculated according to the patient and the frame. If you would like to use a custom Seg Height Measurement for the progressive lenses, it may be provided during the lens order when providing a prescription (step 3).
Tailored progressives are customized to meet an individual's unique vision needs and preferences. The customization considers the person's prescription, lifestyle, and visual habits. This personalized approach optimizes the visual experience by ensuring a smooth and natural transition between different prescription powers within the lens.
Basic differences between the sun options available.
Color tint
Sun-sensitive
Polarized
More information about each sun option may be found below in this section.
Traditional custom color tinting is available for fashion or sun protection.
Prices may vary based on the tint type selected.
All colors are available in any tint type.
Light fashion tinting up to maximum darkness tint for sunglasses.
* The colors and darkness shown are for illustration purposes only and may appear different in person.
Sun-sensitive (or photochromic) lenses, intended for part-time sunglass use, are clear indoors and get darker under the sun. Exposing the lens directly to the sun's UV rays turns ordinary lenses into sun lenses when they are needed the most. A variety of high-quality premium photochromic lens options are available and packaged with the lens. Sun-sensitive coatings are usually only available in neutral colors like grey, brown, or green, with select brands offering other shades like blue and purple.
Certain photochromic coating brands may offer darker levels, faster activation times, and even include polarization.
Premium sun-sensitive brands for custom prescription lenses. Variety of colors may vary based on lens package.
Polarization reacts to glare differently than anti-glare coating. While anti-glare coating helps reduce off the lens, polarization helps reduce glare off surfaces and objects being viewed. Combine your lens with both for the ultimate no glare sun lens.
Polarized lenses are advanced full-time dark sunglass lenses that reduce glare off surfaces & objects and improve visual acuity, as opposed to traditional color tinting. These lenses are great for fishing, skiing, and outdoor activities.
Premium polarized brands for custom prescription lenses. Variety of colors may vary based on lens package.
Enhance the sun protection and appearance of polarized or sun-sensitive sunglass lenses by adding an optional front mirror-finish coating. Lens mirror coatings are available only on select lens brands and coatings.
The premium mirror coating brands are for custom prescription lenses. The variety of colors may vary based on the lens package.
Visit the manufacturer's websites for further information about these options:
Blue-light protection coating filters out blue light emitted from computer screens, smartphones, tablets, and television screens while letting the beneficial light pass through. Long-term exposure to blue light can cause eye strain and fatigue, which harms the eyes.
Blue-light protection is packaged with many lenses but is also available in additional coatings, with each level offering about 20% protection. Combine multiple levels of blue-light protection to receive the maximum protection against blue-light exposure.
 |
Essilor Essential Blue Series Available for select Essilor lenses |
 |
ZEISS BlueGuard Available for select ZEISS lenses |
 |
Hoya Clear Blue Filter Available for select Hoya lenses |
 |
Crizal Prevencia Available for most lenses |
 |
Duravision BlueProtect Available for select ZEISS lenses |
 |
Hoya Recharge Available for select Hoya lenses |
Anti-glare (anti-reflective) coating is packaged with many lenses or available as an additional option for all others. This coating reduces annoying lens glare, offering various benefits for the wearer.
Hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings enhance the performance and durability of anti-glare coatings by repelling water (hydrophobic) and resisting oil and fingerprints (oleophobic).
Oleophobic repels oils from the skin, such as fingerprints and smudges, making lens cleaning easier.
Hydrophobic coating repels water from the lens surface. It is especially beneficial in rainy or humid conditions, as water droplets are less likely to cling to the lens surface.
Options and pricing may vary based on the lenses selected.
Anti-glare coating leaves a slight hue on the lens that looks like a film or residue. The hue is intended by design and is used to help reduce the white glare on the lens. Some coatings, like select Duravision anti-glare coatings, leave a blue hue that may be preferred for cosmetic reasons.
Lens-edge polish improves the cosmetic appearance of the lens. However, a polished lens edge can also cause higher glare due to reflective light, which can sometimes be bothersome. This feature is usually added for thicker lenses, for rimless frames, or upon special request. There is no extra cost for lens-edge polishing.
Lens-edge grooving is processed for semi-rimless, half-rimless or nylor frames. The lens stability is usually supported by a wire fitting inside of the edge groove. It is recommended to consider the lens should have a fair amount of edge thickness to support a stable grooving and preserve lens integrity. Polycarbonate or Trivex materials are recommended for durability. There is no extra cost for lens-edge grooving when lenses are ordered with semi-rimless frames.
Lens drilling & mounting are for full rimless glasses. Lenses are precisely drilled to the manufacturer coordinations then mounted to the frame to ensure an accurate fitting. Lens options for full rimless glasses are limited to Polycarbonate, Trivex and Hi-Index 1.67 (or higher) materials only for durability reasons. Due to the fragile nature, it is recommended to handle these lenses with greater care than an ordinary pair of glasses. Moreover, further maintenance (tightening) may be needed from time to time. There is an extra cost for drilling & mounting that is usually applied to the lens order when ordering lenses with full rimless glasses.
Contact our support department for further assistance. Customer service
