Photochromic lenses, sometimes referred to as "transition lenses" after the well-known brand name, Transitions, are eyeglass lenses that can change from clear to dark, depending on the environment.
Typical costs:
For patients with health insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically consist of doctor visit copays and coinsurance of 10%-50% for the glasses. Photochromic lenses typically are covered, at least partially, by vision insurance.
For patients not covered by health insurance, transition lenses typically add $100-$400 to the cost of prescription eyeglasses, which can cost up to $1,000, depending on the frames, lenses and any additional features chosen. While the average pair of prescription eyeglasses costs less than $200, a pair with photochromic lenses could cost $400-$650 or more. And pre-made, non-prescription safety glasses or sunglasses with photochromic lenses can cost as much as $200-$400.
For example, at EyeGlassLensDirect.com, prescription photochromic lenses[1] cost about $100-$450 per pair, not including the frame, which could add several hundred dollars to the total cost. And at EyeGlasses.com, it costs an additional $75-$95, on top of the cost of the glasses, to get Transitions[2] brand photochromic lenses.
At SafetyGlassesUSA.com, light-adjusting safety glasses[3] cost about $40-$220. And at SelectSpecs.com, photochromic sunglasses[4] , cost about $75-$400 per pair.
Photochromic lenses commonly are used by people who work or spend a lot of time outdoors, by people who wear glasses and don't want to get separate prescription sunglasses, and by people with sensitivity to light. They are available from a variety of manufacturers with several options for color (for example, brown or grey) and darkness of tint, and other features.
Like other types of eyeglass lenses, photochromic lenses can be placed in a frame of the patient's choice. Frame choices range from basic to designer.
AllAboutVision.com offers a guide to photochromic lenses[5] .
Additional costs:
Eyeglass cases typically cost from about $5-$30.
Microfiber cloths and lens cleaner typically cost less than $10.
Discounts:
Some online retailers offer discounts. For example, FramesDirect.com has an offer[6] of $15 off any frame with the purchase of Transitions brand lenses.
Shopping for transitions lenses:
The American Academy of Ophthalmology provides an ophthalmologist locator[7] , and it is recommended to verify board certification by contacting the American Board of Ophthalmology[8] . WebMD offers a guide[9] on how to choose an eye doctor.
Transition lenses typically would be purchased through an eye doctor or an optical shop. Online retailers, such as EyeGlasses.com[10] and EyeGlassLensDirect.com[11] also offer photochromic lenses.
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.
10 Quick and Inexpensive Home Makeover Projects To Do While At Home You may not be able to host the large family gathering for the holidays, but there are still many ways to pick up items curbside to spruce up your indoor space for your everyday enjoyment and to bring a more festive spirit. || Posted December 30 2020
10 Key Ways to Prepare for Extreme Snow Forecasters are predicting a true nor'easter will hit the eastern and central states with rain, thunderstorms, ice, snow and high winds over the Thanksgiving weekend. It's crucial to plan ahead, before bad weather hits. || Posted November 26 2013
This price reflects the eyemed card discount. Including wire frames. I went for additional transitioning option in the car which is something new, hope it works just ordered them today.
Ive had my eyes examined by 3 different physicians (m.d) & 3 optomitrists, and i've purchased 9 different sets of glasses in the last 10 years. None of them are any good. I spent thousands on transitions, sunglasses and clear glasses yet no one ever told me what i should buy.
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
shoulder mri Paid: 8000.00 Seriously, 8K for an MRI before all the secret insurance kicks in. I was stuck with a 1200 bill and my insurance is pretty good. This is insane for a 20 minute procedure with no nurse assistance... [more]
what should have cost under 100 Paid: 399.67 had my back wheel stuck on someone's driveway and I was pulled out as easily as a tractor could have done... [more]
Why is dental insurance stuck in the 80's? Paid: 55000.00 In 1986, I started my first full time Big Girl job, which came with options for medical insurance that ranged from "Volkswagon to Cadillac, and everything in between" which was up to me to choose based on my needs, what I could af... [more]