The Case for Offering Mid-Index Lenses: A Hidden Profit Opportunity

When most patients buy lenses, they ask one thing: “Will it be thick?”

But between the standard 1.56 index and the pricier 1.67 high-index lenses, there’s a middle ground that’s often overlooked—the mid-index lens—1.61.

These lenses offer both visual comfort and cosmetic benefits, and for optical businesses, they’re a smart way to offer value and increase average transaction size.

Let’s talk about why 1.61 lenses from TKR Optics’ Rising Sun collection are worth highlighting in your dispensary.

What Are Mid-Index Lenses?

Mid-index lenses fall between standard resin (1.56) and high-index lenses (1.67+)

These are ideal for patients who want something sleeker than the most basic lenses—but don’t need the premium pricing of ultra-thin high-index options.

Who Benefits from Mid-Index Lenses?

These lenses are especially useful for:

• Patients with prescriptions between ±2.00 and ±4.00

• Style-conscious wearers who want thinner lenses without paying more

• People upgrading from their first pair—especially young adults

• Patients with semi-rimless frames where edge thickness matters

Example:

A 27-year-old with -3.50 SPH walks in for new glasses. A 1.56 lens will be noticeably thick in her chosen frame, but 1.67 may be overkill (and over budget). A 1.60 HMC+ Blue lens offers the right balance.

Why Mid-Index Lenses Are a Missed Opportunity

Many optical shops focus on two extremes: the cheapest (1.56) and the thinnest (1.67). But that skips over a major group of patients who are willing to spend a little more for a better-looking result.

By consistently offering mid-index lenses as an option, you:

• Increase your average sale per pair

• Reduce remake issues due to patient dissatisfaction with lens thickness

• Create a better wearing experience, leading to more repeat customers

How to Position Mid-Index Lenses

When a patient asks, “Will my lenses look thick?”, instead of jumping to 1.67, try this:

“You don’t need the most expensive lens, but we can go with something thinner and flatter than the basic lens. Our 1.61 lenses are a solid middle option—they’ll look better in the frame and feel lighter.”

It keeps the conversation focused on comfort and appearance, not technical specs.

Why Choose Rising Sun Mid-Index Lenses

TKR Optics carries a reliable selection of Rising Sun 1.61 lenses in both:

• Standard HMC

• Blue Shield

  
  

They're available in popular ranges and ready to edge quickly, making them easy to work into your daily dispensing routine.

Final Thought

Mid-index lenses offer a clear win—for both your patients and your business. They look better, feel lighter, and create space for value-added selling without overselling.

If you haven’t been pushing 1.61 lenses as part of your default recommendation flow, now’s the time to start. TKR Optics makes it easy to stock and sell.