FAQs

EYE HEALTH FAQs

For over 90 years, Cohen’s Fashion Optical has helped our customers maintain their eye health with expert care. You may have questions regarding eye exams and common eye conditions. Following are frequently asked eye health questions to provide you with quick information prior to your next eye exam appointment.

How often do I need an eye exam?

Annual eye exams are recommended for adults 18 to 60+, unless your eye health dictates further examination and care. Adults who wear contact lenses are required to have an annual exam to receive a current contact lens prescription.

Do I still need an eye exam if I have 20/20 vision?

You bet. Your eyes can change from year to year plus eye exams catch early signs of diseases such as glaucoma or diabetes.

What can I expect at a typical eye exam?

During your exam, an optometrist will test your vision, check your eye health, and look for signs of general health problems (vision issues can be an indicator of other health concerns such as diabetes). In addition, your doctor may also put you through a few tests that are designed to catch eye conditions and diseases early, such as cataracts and glaucoma. You will also have time to discuss your prescription with your optometrist and ask any questions you may have about eye health and vision correction solutions.

What causes dry eyes?

Dry eyes are caused by a lack of adequate tears - a blend of water, mucus, and fatty oils—in the eyes. Tears help keep the surface of your eyes smooth, your vision clear, and ward off infection. Decreased tear production can be an issue if you are older than 50, have had laser eye surgery such as LASIK, are a post-menopausal woman, or have a medical condition such as diabetes, arthritis, lupus, or thyroid disorders. Some medications can also cause dry eyes, as does extensive work outdoors or indoors on a computer.

Why is ultraviolet (UV) protection important?

Extended, unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause serious eye damage, including macular degeneration, cataracts, and photokeratitis, which can cause temporary vision loss. Protect your eyes from harm with sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV rays. Because of their full range of coverage, wraparound sunglasses provide the most protection.

What do I do if I scratch my eye?

If you've gotten poked in the eye or rubbed your when a foreign object was in it, you've possibly ended up with a corneal abrasion. It's important to see your doctor as soon as possible. While many eye scratches will heal on their own, some may be more susceptible to infection and require prescription medication. If you believe you may have lacerated your cornea, seek emergency medical attention as quickly as possible.

Can I sleep in my contact lenses?

While some contact lenses are designed for wearing through the night while sleeping, not all are. Ask your eye doctor how you can use your current contact lenses—or request a prescription for contact lenses designed to be worn while sleeping.

What is presbyopia?

Stretching your arms to read that menu? If you're over 40, it's likely that you've entered presbyopia, which is your eyes' loss of focusing ability that occurs naturally with age. This is a normal change that affects everyone as they age. Discuss vision solutions-from reading glasses to progressive lenses and multifocal contacts—with your eye doctor.

What is glaucoma?

A condition caused by the pressure of fluid inside the eye, glaucoma can damage your optic nerve that connects the eye to the brain. It can lead to partial vision loss or blindness. The risk of developing glaucoma increases for those who are over 40, are very short-sighted, are of African or Caribbean descent, or who have a family history of glaucoma.

What are cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens, which sits behind the iris and pupil. When this lens becomes increasingly opaque, this condition can lead to partial vision loss of blindness—cataracts are the most common cause of blindness in people over 40 worldwide today.

What is macular degeneration?

The leading cause of severe vision loss in people over the age of 60, this condition occurs when the macula—the small central portion of the retina—deteriorates. Early signs of macular degeneration include shadowy areas in central vision or distorted vision.

GENERAL FAQs

With decades of experience and dedicated teams of on-site Optometrists and eyewear specialists, Cohen’s Fashion Optical is your source for comprehensive eyecare, eyeglasses and contact lenses. Following are frequently asked general questions to provide you with information prior to your visit to one of our convenient locations.

How Much Does An Eye Exam Cost?

Cohen's Fashion Optical maintains various online coupons that may be used toward eye exams and eyewear. Eye exam coupons can be found here and eye exams can be easily scheduled online, or with a quick call to the location nearest you. For detailed pricing information, please call your local Cohen's Fashion Optical store or visit our location page.

Is There A Cohen's Location Near My Home Or Work?

Yes, we have over 100 Cohen's stores in major malls and convenient city locations, each with a Doctor of Optometry on staff. There are 2 ways to find the nearest Cohen's Locations: Schedule an appointment on our online appointment scheduler or call 1-800-EYES-440, or input your zip code, and you will be given the closest locations. Select a store and you will be directly connected to it.

How Often Do I Need To Have An Eye Exam?

Annual eye exams are recommended as a part of preventative health care. You may be unaware of problems because there are often no obvious signs or symptoms. It is important to detect and treat vision problems early in order to maintain good vision and eye health. Consult with your Cohen's Fashion Optical Optometrist about your particular vision needs. Children's needs often vary, depending on individual age. (Refer to our Eye Health pages for more information on eye exams)

Can I Combine My Vision Benefits With Your Current Coupon/Promotion?

Our promotions cannot be combined with any other vision benefit plans, offers, sales, or packages. Our expert optical associates are happy to help you determine which option will give you the most savings: your vision benefits or other promotions. If you have any further questions, we encourage you to call or visit your local store. To find the Cohen's Fashion Optical nearest you, please visit our Locations page.

What Is The Process For A Contact Lens Exam And Fitting?

During a contact lens fitting, the curve and diameter of your eyes are measured in order to ensure you receive lenses that fit accurately and work well for your vision correction needs and lifestyle. If you have not previously worn contact lenses, training will be provided to show you how to put your lenses in and take them out, and properly store and care for them. After a trial period wearing the contact lenses, you will schedule a follow-up visit with our Doctor of Optometry to confirm that the contact lenses are a good match for your vision needs. Cohen's Fashion Optical makes it easy to schedule a contact lens exam and fitting online, or over the phone.

Where Can I Get My Eyewear Repaired?

Cohen's Fashion Optical is happy to offer minor repairs, such as replacement of screws or nose pads, at no cost. We encourage you to contact or visit your local Cohen's Fashion Optical store. Our expert optical associates will be able to assess how best to repair your eyewear. Visit our Locations page to find the Cohen's Fashion Optical store nearest you.

Do I Have To Get An Eye Exam At Cohen's To Buy Prescription Eyewear?

As the eye exam is the most important element in determining your eyewear needs, we prefer that a Cohen's Doctor of Optometry examines your eyes. However, we will accept a current, valid prescription from a licensed Optometrist or Ophthalmologist. You can schedule your annual eye exam with a Cohen's Fashion Optical doctor online quickly and easily here.

Does Cohen's Fashion Optical Sell Gift Certificates Or Gift Cards?

Yes, all Cohen's Fashion Optical stores carry gift certificates that may be purchased in any denomination. We encourage you to call or visit your local Cohen's Fashion Optical store for further assistance or to complete your purchase. To find the store nearest you, visit our Locations page.

Does Cohen's Fashion Optical Sell Gift Certificates Or Gift Cards?

What Is The Difference Between An Optician, An Optometrist And An Opthalmologist?

An Optician is the person who helps you choose and adjust properly fitting eyewear such as glasses and contact lenses. An Optometrist is a trained healthcare professional who conducts eye examinations. An Ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who is licensed to practice medicine and surgery, and who specializes in eye and vision care.

Can You Put New Lenses In Frames I Bought At Another Store?

We would be happy to replace the lenses in your existing frames. Bring in your eyeglasses to the nearest store and our expert optical associates will evaluate the condition of the frames to see if the lenses can be replaced. To find the store nearest you, visit our Locations page.

Do I Need A Prescription For Color Contact Lenses?

A valid contact lens prescription is required in order to purchase any type of contact lenses, including color contact lenses, even if you do not need contact lenses for vision correction. A contact lens fitting will measure the curve and diameter of your eye, and help ensure the health of your eyes, so you can feel confident about an accurate fit. If a lens is not properly fitted, it can shift, causing irritation, scratching, or other problems. You can schedule an eye exam with a Cohen's Fashion Optical optometrist online by visiting our Exams page. If you'd prefer to schedule your exam over the phone, please contact your doctor's office at the location you wish to visit. To find the store nearest you, visit our Locations page.

How Long Will It Take To Get My Glasses?

Most glasses can be made in about an hour, depending on the prescription, lens type and special treatments, etc. Our optical associates are committed to offering you the best service possible!

What Can I Expect At A Typical Eye Exam?

During an exam, your Optometrist will test your sight, check your eye health and look for any signs of general health issues. For specifics on an eye exam and how to read your prescription, refer to our Eye Health section.

Does Cohen’s Accept My Insurance?

Cohen's locations accept most HMO, Union, major Insurance plans and company vision plans. Click here for more information or confirm your benefits and eligibility through your vision plan provider, or when you come into a Cohen's store, an associate will assist you with it. You can also use your flexible spending account towards eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses!

Does Cohen's Offer A Finance Plan?

Yes. Cohen's has its own special financing plan. You can apply for the Cohen's finance plan at any participating Cohen's location. To find a Cohen's location near you click here.

What Types Of Frames Are Available At Cohen's?

Cohen's features the latest European and American designers. Our huge selection of designer frames represents the latest in high fashion as well as contemporary, active and sports brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Bulgari, Gucci, Prada, Versace, Fendi, Dior, Tom Ford, Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Mark Jacobs, Ray-Ban and many more. We also carry a wide array of value brands. Click here to view our value selection.

Do You Sell Eyeglasses Without Prescription Lenses?

Yes. These non-prescription lenses are called "plano" lenses. Eyeglasses today have become an important fashion accessory. Even though you may not need vision correction, you can still enhance your image and style with an eyewear wardrobe.

Does Cohen's Carry Sunglasses?

Yes. Cohen's offers the latest designer sunglasses with both prescription and non-prescription lenses.

Do You Offer Franchise Opportunities?

Yes. We are always looking for qualified individuals to join us and achieve success together in the optical industry. Please visit the Franchise Opportunities section.