Im retired from the USA and moved to Bangkok recently. I live in On nut. On Monday I have to go for my yearly eye exam. This will be the first eye exam Im having in Thailand. I have an issue with one of my eyes. So in the USA I was seeing an ophthalmologist for my routine eye exams. Im seeing one at Bumrungrad Hospital. My medical insurance from the vision covers the eye exam. I also have supplemental vision insurance from another company. This would cover frames and lenses and I would have to pay for them a very small amount. Unfortunately the vision insurance does not cover overseas. Anything would be payed a small amount out of network.

      If I have need to get new lenses and frames, where would be the best place to go for them? My lenses are more costly because they are bi-focals. I also have the lenses that darken in sunlight. Bumrungrad also has an eyeglass center. But Im guessing it will be costly to purchase lenses and frames there. I see a lot of eyeglass places in malls. But Im not sure if they are very good. 

I used Owndays (albeit in Philippines but I see them appearing in BKK now) - initially a good check-up and assessment although the promised same day manufacturing didn't extend to my progressive lenses, which took 2 weeks to make. But less than a year after getting them, the lenses are horribly scratched and it seems the shop doesn't want to know. I have worn glasses for more than half my life and never had a pair that scratched so easily. I will never use them again. 

1.  I and many will advise to order from Zenni - good service to Thailand and much cheaper than local made.  Normally good lens/frames in the $100 range.

 

2.  You might want to try progressive lens rather than bi-focal if you have not tried before.  They work well for most people.

 

3.  Get your prescription and PD from your opthamologist to order outside hospital.  You can do PD yourself if need be.

 

4.  I found years ago that darkening lens do not work well in hot weather (and were a real danger driving through tunnels).  Probably better to get normal lens and sunglasses