The short answer is no. We can sell you the same lens that competitors sell, at the same price. Lenses and frames vary significantly in quality, coatings, material, thickness and design. When comparing two pairs of lenses from different locations, but of the same design, the lenses will be roughly the same cost. We offer everything from budget eyewear solutions to luxury frame lines and lenses and our expert opticians are available anytime to educate you about the different options available so that you can make an informed decision about your personal eyewear.

Eye exam frequency depends on age, health status and whether you are a contact lens wearer.

• A child’s first eye exam should be at the age of six months and then a second exam should be completed between the ages of 2 and 5.
• Exams should be annually during school years until the age of 19.
• Healthy patients aged 19-64 should be seen at least once every two years.
• Seniors age 65+ should be seen annually as they are higher risk for eye disease.
• Contact lens wearers of any age, are to be seen on an annual basis
• Patients with certain systemic or ocular disease, on certain medications or with elevated risk factors are often recommended a more frequent recall. This is determined after discussion with your doctor.

A number of optical stores offer what are called “sight tests” which use automated machinery to determine a patient’s prescription. The accuracy of these tests is limited and there is no evaluation of eye health. Many serious problems and diseases do not affect vision until the condition is more advanced. Some of these include glaucoma, diabetes, brain tumors, eye cancer and retinal holes. Early detection of any of these conditions is important to be able to protect not only the health of the eyes and the clearness of vision, but also the individual’s overall health and maybe even their life. Having a sight test without an eye health examination presents a serious risk.

An eye exam performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist looks at the entire eye and vision system and is an important part of preventative health care.
Most jurisdictions in North America forbid sight testing, but it is permitted in British Columbia.