Prescription sunglasses allow users to shield their eyes from the sun while preserving their vision. These lenses can be costly, but are perfect for active people who need vision correction.
Typical costs:
Prescription sunglasses vary in price from $20 to more than $700, depending upon the frames and type of lens used in the frame.
Basic lenses, with simple plastic or metal frames, can be purchased online or through an eye boutique. These lenses cost about $50 for simple plastic lenses with plastic frames[1] ., while designer prescription sunglasses can cost $325 for Gucci glasses to more than $600 for Shuron MacArthur sunglasses[2] at online retailers.
Other discount retailers, such as Lenscrafters[3] and Pearle Vision[4] offer sunglasses that cost between $150 and $500.
Prescription sunglasses can also be purchased through an eye care professional. Prices should be similar to online retailers. Ask about discounts for purchasing prescription sunglasses with eyeglasses or contact lenses. The eye care professional may also offer a free eye exam with the purchase of prescription lenses.
Most insurance companies do not cover the purchase of prescription sunglasses. The Vision Service Plan[5] , a national provider of vision insurance, does allow consumers to buy prescription sunglasses with their annual eyeglasses benefit. Typical copays, which can range from $15 to $50, will apply.
Eyeglass purchases should include metal frames, nose pads and lenses. In some cases, the retailers may list separate charges for the frames and the lenses. The listing may also include care information for the lenses and frames. AllAboutVision.com explains the different types[6] of frame styles and lenses available.
Additional costs:
Patients must have an annual eye exam to purchase prescription sunglasses through a U.S. retailer. Most experts recommend that patients purchase prescription sunglasses through a U.S. retailer because overseas merchants are not bound by Food and Drug Administration regulations. The average national cost for an eye exam is $114, but the cost will vary. See How Much Does An Eye Exam Cost.
Discounted and free eye exams are available through a variety of programs and foundations. The National Eye Institute[7] maintains a list of many of these programs.
Shopping for prescription sunglasses:
AllAboutVision.com[8] provides guidance on the types of sunglasses available and where they can be purchased.
An online purchase can be the most affordable option, but patients should investigate the company before buying online. Check with the Better Business Bureau[9] before making a purchase.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 2013
7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
Sinus Infections - Steroid shot and sent home Paid: 2753.00 I woke up having breathing problems. I went to nearby non-hospital THH office. Nurse took blood pressure and temperature. Dr came in the room and spent less than 10 minutes and stated I had sinus infection... [more]
Mold Testing Pacific Palisades, CA Paid: 800.00 It cost us 800. We were pleased with Knight Environmental consulting who we hired. They were very thorough. Friendly and respectful of our home.They checked everywhere in our 7000ft home and tested the air... [more]
extraction Paid: 739.00 Had 3 extractions yesterday. The cost was 304.00 each extraction but with some kind of insurance plan you could get 30% off. The plan was 75.00 annually and came at a huge savings on the work as my final cost with the plan was 814... [more]
McHenry MD - Suburban Propane Paid: 3300.00 Just got my bill and in 5 weeks we supposedly used 356 gals. Hard to do when you are not there the entire time and you turned the thermostat to 60. They charged $.35 more per gallon then from 5 weeks ago. $3.42 per gallon... [more]
Laceration from stick Paid: 25.00 Slipped and fell on a stick while running around on a hill, and recieved 2 lacerations on my right leg, one about an inch long and one about 2 inches long. Called my insurance asap (Kaiser) and they directed me to one of their Urgent Cares... [more]
Urinalysis was asked of me Paid: 3920.00 This was supposed to cost $250. Total!$3,675. for a urinalysis. Not mentioned anywhere on ANY search was this required to get a card... [more]