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How Long Do Glasses Take? What Affects Turnaround at a Boutique Optical


Waiting for your new eyeglasses can be nerve-wracking, especially when clear vision is a top priority. At our boutique optical in Glendale Heights, we know patients want to understand exactly how long the process will take—from eye exam and frame selection to picking up your custom glasses. Our team at iDoctor specializes in efficient, precise service for everyone in Glendale Heights and the surrounding areas, including Bloomingdale and Glen Ellyn. Here, we break down the timeline, local benefits, and how our expertise helps you get the perfect pair every time.

eye doctor in Glendale Heights

What Does Eyeglasses Turnaround Actually Mean?

Eyeglasses turnaround refers to the period from the moment you place your eyewear order (with prescription, selected frames, and lenses) to when your finished glasses are ready for pickup. This includes manufacturing, optical measurements, lens treatments, and final product checks. At iDoctor, our approach is always patient-focused; we prioritize both speed and precision to ensure your new eyeglasses are crafted to fit and perform exactly as they should.

Colorful eyeglasses on display in a modern, well-lit eyewear store.

What Is the Typical Glasses Turnaround at a Boutique Optical?

For most prescription eyeglasses at iDoctor, the usual turnaround time is 7 to 21 business days. The exact timing depends on several factors, but here are standard ranges:

  • Single Vision Lenses: 7–14 business days for most prescriptions.
  • Progressive (No-Line Multifocal) Lenses: 10–21 business days due to advanced lens design.
  • Bifocals: 10–14 business days.
  • Specialty coatings or enhancements: Add 3–7 business days for blue light, anti-reflective, transitions, or polarized options.
  • Frame not in stock: Add 5–14 business days if the designer frame you choose must be ordered directly from the vendor.

iDoctor’s team communicates expected turnaround before every order and offers status updates with the goal of keeping the experience as stress-free as possible.

Key Factors Affecting Eyeglasses Turnaround Times

1. Lens Complexity and Prescription Details

The more complex your prescription—like progressives, high-index lenses for strong corrections, or astigmatism—the more lab work is required. While single vision orders can be processed quickly, advanced corrections demand extra precision at every step. Our use of digital phoropters and detailed refraction at iDoctor means your lenses will be produced to the highest standard, but this meticulous accuracy can extend your wait slightly versus basic orders.

2. Frame Selection and Availability

Our boutique optical curates exclusive designer brands, including Cartier, Prada, Gucci, Tom Ford, Oliver Peoples, and Ray-Ban. If you choose a frame that’s not currently in stock, we order it directly, which can add a few days. For fastest results, ask your optician which popular frames are immediately available.

3. Advanced Lens Coatings and Treatments

Premium lens coatings like Crizal, blue light protection, or photochromic transitions require extra processing. For maximum comfort and protection, many patients opt for these enhancements even if it adds a few days. We provide clear information about the impact on turnaround and always work with you to prioritize your needs and schedule.

4. Custom Measurements, Fitting, and Quality Control

We use Optikam digital measurements for every lens, ensuring perfect alignment and visual clarity for your unique face shape and frame choice. Every pair is checked for accuracy, comfort, and aesthetics by our experienced opticians before you’re notified for pickup. These steps contribute to a truly personalized result and set us apart from chain opticals.

Three vibrant eyeglasses on a pastel surface with a magazine layout, perfect for fashion and design themes.

What Makes iDoctor’s Turnaround Unique in Glendale Heights?

We deliver more than just glasses—we deliver confidence, reliability, and a boutique experience that’s evident from your first visit. iDoctor combines medical-grade diagnostic excellence with the personalized attention only a boutique optical in Glendale Heights can provide:

  • Experience: Dr. Saher Sayed and her optical team have deep expertise in custom vision solutions and advanced optical measurements.
  • Cutting-edge technology: Digital phoropters, widefield retinal imaging, and gentle tonometry for glaucoma detection—ensuring precise, safe prescriptions.
  • Local expertise: Our practice is minutes from Army Trail Road and neighboring cities including Carol Stream and Lombard, perched right between Glendale Heights amenities and close to Bloomingdale.
  • Convenience: We accept all major vision insurance—VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Humana, Superior Vision, Davis Vision, NVA, Spectera, and UnitedHealthcare Vision. Immediate and next-day appointments are often available.
  • Ongoing support: Lifetime adjustments and frame care are always complimentary for our patients.

Frequently Asked Questions: Eyeglasses Turnaround in Glendale Heights

How long do progressive lenses take?

Progressive (no-line multifocal) lenses typically take 10–21 business days to produce. The advanced optics and personalization built into each Varilux progressive lens, like those at iDoctor, require extensive lab work.

Can I get my new glasses faster if I choose an in-stock frame?

Yes. If your chosen frame is already in our boutique, your order is sent to the lab immediately, minimizing delays. Out-of-stock or special-order designer frames can add 5–14 business days.

Does using vision insurance affect how long glasses take?

No. We verify and manage all major insurances up front. Your order proceeds while we handle coverage details (VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Humana, Superior Vision, Davis Vision, NVA, Spectera, UnitedHealthcare Vision). Insurance does not add to production time at iDoctor.

Are there options for faster turnaround?

Boutique opticals, like iDoctor, are focused on customization rather than speed. For patients needing urgent glasses (for example, lost or broken eyewear), call us directly at (630) 454-6899. We’ll help you explore available in-stock frames and discuss rush options if possible.

Do prescription sunglasses take longer?

Prescription sunglasses generally follow the same timeline as regular eyeglasses, although specialty tints or polarized treatments may add 3–7 days. We fit sunglass lenses including Xperio UV and premium tints.

Best Practices for a Smooth, Fast Eyeglasses Experience

  • Choose a popular, in-stock frame: Your iDoctor optician can show you frames we stock from brands like Gucci, Tom Ford, Ray-Ban, Coach, and Kate Spade, so your order begins immediately.
  • Confirm and update your prescription: Make sure your eye exam is current and accurate. Any changes later in the process will require rewriting the order and may extend turnaround. See our tip on retinal imaging and understanding your prescription here.
  • Ask about coatings and enhancements: If you’re in a rush, standard anti-reflective coatings speed up the process. Specialty features like blue light, transitions, or polarization provide extra benefits but add days.
  • Stay in touch: Our staff will call just as soon as your glasses are ready. Feel free to call or text (630) 454-6899 for an update anytime.
  • Book your exam and frame fitting together: This helps us verify prescription and begin the order right away, especially if you’re managing a tight schedule.

Local Benefits: Why Order Glasses at iDoctor in Glendale Heights?

  • Fast, friendly appointments: Many new patients report same-day or next-day eye exams. We’re conveniently located near popular Glendale Heights shopping areas and just minutes from Addison and Carol Stream.
  • Insurance-friendly service: Our team handles all insurance paperwork; uninsured? Ask about our $125 Value Package (including frame, premium lenses, and anti-reflective coating).
  • Top-rated in the community: Our patients consistently praise our clear communication about orders and timelines, deep frame selection, and the professionalism of Dr. Saher Sayed and our team.
  • Expert guidance for families and individuals: We put extra care into precise measurements and lifestyle consultations for everyone from style-focused adults to parents outfitting kids for back-to-school.

Woman selecting eyeglasses in a modern optical store, exploring various frames on display.

“Dr. Sayed took the time to explain everything clearly and answer every question with patience. The entire experience was professional, efficient, and the office was immaculate.” – iDoctor patient

How to Book Glasses and Get Your Timeline

Ready for the next step?

  • Call iDoctor today at (630) 454-6899 or book your appointment online.
  • Bring any prior glasses, contacts, or your medication list for the best results at your eye exam.
  • After your personalized exam, a certified optician will guide you through our curated designer frames and lens technologies (including Varilux progressives, Crizal anti-reflective, and Eyezen for digital comfort).
  • Your optician will confirm the estimated turnaround for your exact frame and lens order before finalizing—transparency is always our promise!
  • As soon as your glasses are ready, we’ll call you. All in-person fittings and adjustments are included for life.

Why People Across Glendale Heights Trust iDoctor for Eyeglasses

iDoctor stands out in Glendale Heights not just for advanced eye care technology and designer frames—but for deep local roots, meticulous measurements, and friendly, rapid service. Families from Bloomingdale, Lombard, and Addison choose us for our expertise, insurance acceptance, transparent updates, and ability to blend custom style with precision vision care. Our location (132 E. Army Trail Rd., Glendale Heights, IL) is minutes from key routes, shopping, and residential areas for absolute convenience.

We know your time matters as much as your vision. Our team is here to make sure your eyeglasses process is smooth, accurate, and tailored to you—every step of the way.

Book Your Exam or Eyewear Consultation Today

  • Call: (630) 454-6899
  • Text: (630) 866-1229
  • Address: 132 E. Army Trail Rd., Glendale Heights, IL 60139
  • Online: Book an exam or consult (easy online form, fast response)
  • Hours: Monday 9–5, Tuesday/Wednesday 10–3, Thursday/Friday 9–5

Your perfect pair—and the clarity, comfort, and confidence that comes with it—are closer than you think. If you have questions about the eyeglasses process, insurance, or premium lens options, we’re ready to help.


If you’re ready for custom-fit, high-style eyeglasses built around your needs, connect with iDoctor here—serving Glendale Heights and neighboring cities with precision, care, and top-tier designer frames.

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