The optometrist recommended seamless bifocals. I have a very painful nerve condition in my face (atypical trigeminal neuralgia), so this is what I need with glasses: the lightest weight frames possible- known as ultra light- with the lightest weight lenses possible and automatically darkening lenses so I don’t need the weight of sunglasses. The cheapest frames brought the total to $250 on the site the insurance worked with.
The frames are $20 on the cheap site. Everything else in the cost is the lenses.
As for why I have to buy them online- I don’t want anyone touching my face unless it’s absolutely necessary. The exam was painful enough.
American for-profit healthcare is fucking awesome.
If you have Costco membership, their optical department is pretty affordable. Frames are $50-80. Lenses another $80 or so, but depends on complexity and of you get transitions and whatnot.
It’s the same for Sam’s Club. My eye doctor said glasses would be $800 AFTER insurance. I went to Sam’s Club and got two pairs for $200.
And if you don’t have a membership, one costs $60. So frames lenses and membership could end up less than $250.
from the op description they are in fact a very complicated seamless bifocal. likely some of the most expensive lenses to make. idk, to a certain extent op is looking for a modern luxury item and mad that it’s expensive. like they don’t NEED seamless bifocals, it’s just Better for their condition. they could spend less on thicker cheaper bifocals, they just wouldn’t be as nice.
like it sucks that most glasses are uncomfortable for them, but sadly this has simply resulted in them needing expensive glasses if they get this spec. it’s kind of like someone saying they need a car that’s fast, fuel efficient, rides great, looks cool, is safe, and has lots of storage but are confused why they can’t find a good deal on that.
also, costco takes the shitty eye insurance so you may not be paying much on top of not paying much already. felt good that year.