How Much Should Opticians Be Charging?

[Stargazer]

I just had to pay £535 for varifocal lenses using my own frames. That includes a £67.50 voucher which I received because I am in receipt of Pension Credit. I upgraded to the best lenses but am still gobsmacked at the cost charged. I have had varifocal lenses for the past several years. I am picking them up this afternoon. Am I entitled to ask for a copy of my prescription? I have paid in full but intend to ask for a breakdown of this amount. Previously I have paid nothing, using my own frames and always at the same Opticians for forty years. It is under a different name now as original optician retired several years ago.

[Peter Pedant]

// Am I entitled to ask for a copy of my prescription? I have paid in full but intend to ask for a breakdown of this amount.//

of course you are entitled to ask ..... BUT
are they obliged to break down the charges - erm not sure, yes I think

£500 now is £50 1970 - just before decimalisation and as far as I can recollect is NOT a rip off ( but expensive )

just paid £200 for replacement glasses having picked out a frame from the £25 bargain pick
and thought well *** - I need the things, so ho hum ....

how much should an optician be charging
as much as the market can bear .....

the good old wilson idea of central control of everything has gone ( along with WIlson )

[HansUrbancka]

There are so many different quality varifocal lenses that, without full specifications, I think it very difficult to put a value on what you have been prescribed. However what you have been charged does seem somewhat over the top.

You may find the following links to be interesting.:-

https://www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/advice/how-can-i-complain-about-an-optician#:~:text=Contact%20the%20Optical%20Consumer%20Complaints%20Service%20%28OCCS%29%20with,of%20poor%20quality%20or%20not%20fit%20for%20purpose.

https://www.which.co.uk/news/2019/11/varifocal-glasses-the-best-and-worst-places-to-buy/

https://lensology.co.uk/pricing/varifocal-lenses/

Hans.

[mjwman]

My optician is in Turkey where we have a place.
£250 for top varifocals and proper branded frame.
It would be cheaper to go on holiday and buy some. It takes just 3 days and includes a very comprehensive eye test!