Optical Lens Edgers Are Changing The Eyewear Game

By Author: Adam Steede
Total Articles: 6
Comment this article

Offering faster service and top-tier quality without driving up costs can feel nearly impossible in a competitive optical market. But with in-house lens edger machines, opticians can have more control over turnaround times. These machines allow optical shops to bring lens cutting and shaping onsite, eliminating the delays and expenses that come with outsourcing.
What used to take days at an external lab can now be done in just hours with the right optical lens edger. That means happier customers and a more efficient workflow, leading to better margins.

Why it pays to invest in your own lens edging system
Installing lens edging equipment gives optometrists greater control over both their operations and customer experience. By producing lenses internally, clinics can cut lab fees and improve turnaround times. This allows them to stand toe-to-toe with larger chains — all while maintaining a personalized service that keeps customers loyal and likely to recommend.

Create custom lenses fast
Machines like the Nidek ME-1500 offer advanced features that make lens edging faster and more flexible. With ...
... capabilities like 3D drilling and adjustable asymmetrical bevels, this equipment allows for precise customization on a variety of eyewire shapes. Even complex tasks like creating jewel or counterbored holes become seamless, with just a push of a button. The result? Less setup time and staff training, and more output.

Take control of quality with better precision
Every modern optical lens edger is built for accuracy. Advanced cutting systems produce smooth, clean edges, while built-in grooving functions handle curved and thick lenses with ease. These devices also include protective features to reduce risk during operation and maintain high safety standards for both users and equipment.
Opticians can also perform partial step edging on demo lenses before processing a customer’s actual prescription — reducing costly errors and giving your team more confidence in every job.

Work smarter with patternless technology
Patternless edging systems eliminate the need for physical lens templates. These machines can scan and recognize rimless hole positions and adjust for high-curve frames, as well as work with various materials like Polycarbonate and Trivex. Some units even have automatic polishing features — further simplifying production.

Same-day glasses with less noise and effort
In-house edging now offers faster turnaround times than ever before. Instead of waiting several days for a lab to return finished eyewear, opticians can deliver custom lenses on the same day. An advanced optical lens edger operates with minimal noise thanks to vibration-controlled grinders and can make real-time adjustments to force and pressure electronically, reducing manual workload and increasing productivity.

Ready to upgrade your optical lab?
Steede Medical makes it easy to purchase top-tier lens edgers from trusted names like Nidek. You’ll get reliable machines, excellent service, and competitive pricing—plus peace of mind knowing your equipment will be delivered on time and in perfect condition. Visit their website today or call 305 597 0607 to order an optical lens edger for your optical shop.

This article is written by Adam Steede, Managing Director of Steede Medical LLC. Steede Medical LLC is a medical distribution supplier that sources and supplies medical products such as nitrile gloves, hand sanitizers, complex instrumentation, and microscopes for specialist doctors and hospitals. Steede Medical LLC is a regular distributor and envisions new ways to move towards securing the nation’s well-being, all while protecting patients’ safety.