What to do if Eyeglass Frames Get Bent

It happens to everyone sooner or later—you set your glasses down for a moment, or they slip out of your hand, and suddenly the fit feels off. Bent eyeglass frames are more than a small annoyance; they can affect vision, comfort, and even cause headaches if not fixed properly. The good news is that a little care and patience can make all the difference in getting them back into shape.

Assess the Damage First

Before you start adjusting anything, take a close look at what’s actually bent. Are the arms uneven? Is the bridge slightly twisted? Is one lens sitting higher than the other? Identifying where the distortion lies helps prevent further damage or the need for eyeglass repairs in Portland, OR. It’s also a good time to check for loose screws, missing nose pads, or stress lines in the frame—signs that the glasses may need professional attention instead of a quick fix at home.

Be Gentle with Adjustments

If the bend is minor and the frames aren’t made of delicate materials, you can sometimes make small adjustments yourself. For metal frames, hold the glasses firmly and use gentle, gradual pressure to realign them. Avoid quick bending motions that could snap the frame or warp the lens alignment. For plastic frames, avoid trying to bend them cold—warming them slightly with warm (not hot) water for a minute or two can make them more pliable. Never use direct heat like a hairdryer or boiling water, which can ruin the finish or shape.

Know When to Seek Professional Help

If your glasses feel loose, sit crooked, or just don’t seem to fit the same even after trying to adjust them, it’s best to stop and visit your optician in Portland, OR. They have the right tools and training to reshape frames safely without damaging the lenses. Most optical shops can fix bent frames quickly—often in just a few minutes—and may even check for alignment issues you can’t see.

To avoid future mishaps, store your glasses in a sturdy case whenever you’re not wearing them, and handle them with both hands when putting them on or taking them off. A little mindfulness goes a long way in keeping your frames straight, your lenses clear, and your vision perfectly balanced.