A broken pair of glasses instantly disrupts your day, requiring immediate, practical solutions to restore clear vision. Managing this situation involves quickly assessing the damage, applying temporary fixes, and coordinating professional repair or replacement. This guide outlines the necessary steps to manage the immediate crisis and secure a long-term solution.
Immediate Temporary Repairs
Assess the damage to determine if a temporary fix is feasible until you can see a professional. Minor issues like a loose hinge screw can be stabilized by wedging a small piece of a wooden toothpick or dental floss into the screw hole. Snap off the excess material; this method replaces the missing screw, keeping the arm attached for short-term use.
For a completely broken frame bridge, especially on plastic or acetate models, use a small piece of strong, opaque tape, such as electrical or painter’s tape, to align the pieces. This stabilizes the frame structure enough to wear temporarily and prevents further misalignment. Avoid using super glue on frame breaks, as it can permanently damage the material and prevent professional repair later.
When a lens pops out, the repair method depends on the frame type. For metal frames, slightly loosen the securing screw with a tiny screwdriver to reposition the lens into the groove before retightening. For plastic frames, immerse the frame in warm—not hot—water for a minute to soften the plastic, allowing you to gently press the lens back into its groove. If the frame is visibly warped or cracked, re-inserting the lens is not recommended, as it can worsen the damage.
Contacting Your Eye Care Professional
After applying a temporary fix, contact the office where you purchased your glasses or had your last eye exam. Professionals have the specialized tools and expertise needed for safe repairs and proper frame alignment. When calling, describe the severity of the damage, such as a loose screw versus a snapped frame or a deeply scratched lens.
Have your prescription details and date of purchase ready. This information allows the provider to quickly check if a replacement frame is in stock or if your prescription has expired. Many offices perform minor adjustments or replace missing parts, like nose pads or screws, on-site, often at no charge. If the damage is extensive, such as a lens crack or a broken metal bridge, they will schedule a consultation to assess whether repair or full replacement is necessary.
Use a spare pair of old glasses or contact lenses to maintain clear vision while the professional process unfolds.
Understanding Replacement and Warranty Options
Before committing to replacement, investigate any accidental damage warranties or protection plans purchased with the glasses. Many retailers offer a one-year or 18-month warranty covering accidental damage, such as drops or impacts, often requiring a small deductible or co-pay. Standard vision insurance usually covers a new pair of glasses every 12 to 24 months but rarely covers replacement for breakage or loss unless a supplemental plan was purchased.
If the glasses are irreparable and not covered by warranty, you need your current, unexpired prescription for replacement. Your eye care provider must give you a copy of your prescription immediately following a refractive exam, which you should request if you do not have it. This document allows you to shop around, including exploring online retailers, which can be a cost-effective option. Online purchases often require you to provide your pupillary distance (PD) measurement.