How is Kuona different from a traditional optometry practice?
KUONA, a boutique optometry clinic and optical store, located at the base of one of New York City’s most iconic hotels, The Beekman. Founded by Dr. Sophia Visanji, KUONA introduces a groundbreaking concept in eyewear, where expert eye care meets the warmth and elegance of luxury hospitality.
The space has been intentionally designed by Ringo Studio with warm tones and thoughtful mid-century modern details, creating a seamless connection with the Beekman’s welcoming atmosphere. KUONA is about more than just vision. It’s a new way to experience eyecare - combining health, beauty, and conierge service in one space.
The space has been intentionally designed by Ringo Studio with warm tones and thoughtful mid-century modern details, creating a seamless connection with the Beekman’s welcoming atmosphere. KUONA is about more than just vision. It’s a new way to experience eyecare - combining health, beauty, and conierge service in one space.
What does Kuona mean?
The brand name, KUONA, means “to see” in Swahili - an homage to Dr. Visanji’s family, who left East Africa as refugees exactly 50 years ago this year. KUONA reflects the power of the immigrant dream. It’s a new vision in an industry that has been stagnant for far too long.
Do you take insurance?
Of course! We take both vision and medical insurances including VSP, Eyemed, United Healthcare, BCBS, Cigna and …
Do you accept Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Spending Accounts (HSA)?
Yes, we accept both FSA and HSA plans and encourage you to use it before you lose it! Use them towards new specs to elevate your look, prescription sunglasses (you can never have too many), readers, contact lenses or exam fees, including our specialty dry eye treatments that will have you refreshed and rejuvenated.
What if I have no insurance?
No insurance. No problem…
Which payment methods do you accept?
Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Cash.
What is your refund policy?
Receiving services or goods at Kuona acknowledges your understanding of these policies, which are also available in-store and online. A written copy of the store’s refund policy is available on request.
Refund Policy Overview
We do not offer refunds; store credit is provided instead. Any Items purchased during an Event or Discounted due to insurance is not available for return / exchange. A restocking fee applies to all returned / exchanged goods.
Prescription goods include custom-made lenses, plano lenses, and add-ons such as anti-glare or Transitions photochromic lenses. There is a no-refund policy on these items. However, we offer a 50% discount on new lenses during a frame restyle.
Frame Restyling
We offer (1) complimentary frame restyle within 30 days of receipt. Please note:
- The patient is responsible for any difference in cost of frame and lenses.
- No refunds or credits are issued for items of lesser value.
- Lenses for the new frame are offered at 50% off.
- Discounts do not apply to lenses added to Patient’s Own Frames (POF).
Restocking Fees
- Restyled / Exchanged Frames: $50
This policy is subject to change without notice. For any questions or updates, please contact Kuona Management for the most recent policy update.
Refund Policy Overview
We do not offer refunds; store credit is provided instead. Any Items purchased during an Event or Discounted due to insurance is not available for return / exchange. A restocking fee applies to all returned / exchanged goods.
Prescription goods include custom-made lenses, plano lenses, and add-ons such as anti-glare or Transitions photochromic lenses. There is a no-refund policy on these items. However, we offer a 50% discount on new lenses during a frame restyle.
Frame Restyling
We offer (1) complimentary frame restyle within 30 days of receipt. Please note:
- The patient is responsible for any difference in cost of frame and lenses.
- No refunds or credits are issued for items of lesser value.
- Lenses for the new frame are offered at 50% off.
- Discounts do not apply to lenses added to Patient’s Own Frames (POF).
Restocking Fees
- Restyled / Exchanged Frames: $50
This policy is subject to change without notice. For any questions or updates, please contact Kuona Management for the most recent policy update.
What is your contact lens policy?
Contact lens fitting and follow ups must be completed within 3 months of comprehensive exam.
If the time is extended past the 3 month time period, The doctor will require a new comprehensive exam to be performed. If insurance was utilized for the initial exam and you have exceeded the 3 month time period you will be responsible for any out of pocket expenses incurred with a new comprehensive eye exam unless we are able to utilize insurance benefits.
CONTACT LENS PURCHASE & RETURNS POLICY:
We offer exchanges or store credit for any unopened boxes. Please note that we do not provide refunds on contact lens purchases; store credit or exchange only.
Dr’s Rx Change prescriptions, you are eligible for (1) Dr’s Rx Change exchange of prescription on any unopened boxes within 60 days from pickup. If there is a difference in price of said exchanged boxes, you as the patient are responsible for the difference in price.
Contact Lens Shipping Policy:
All 1 Year Supplies are eligible for Free Home Shipping.
Loss or Theft of Packages; The patient assumes any and all risks associated with shipping products to the patients chosen address. Kuona is not liable for any contact lens orders that are being shipped directly to the patient. In the case of Loss or theft it is up to the patient to file a claim with the appropriate delivery carrier, Bank / Credit Card & NYPD to attempt to cover their losses.
RESTOCKING FEE:
There is a $15 Re-stocking fee on any exchanged contact lenses.
If the time is extended past the 3 month time period, The doctor will require a new comprehensive exam to be performed. If insurance was utilized for the initial exam and you have exceeded the 3 month time period you will be responsible for any out of pocket expenses incurred with a new comprehensive eye exam unless we are able to utilize insurance benefits.
CONTACT LENS PURCHASE & RETURNS POLICY:
We offer exchanges or store credit for any unopened boxes. Please note that we do not provide refunds on contact lens purchases; store credit or exchange only.
Dr’s Rx Change prescriptions, you are eligible for (1) Dr’s Rx Change exchange of prescription on any unopened boxes within 60 days from pickup. If there is a difference in price of said exchanged boxes, you as the patient are responsible for the difference in price.
Contact Lens Shipping Policy:
All 1 Year Supplies are eligible for Free Home Shipping.
Loss or Theft of Packages; The patient assumes any and all risks associated with shipping products to the patients chosen address. Kuona is not liable for any contact lens orders that are being shipped directly to the patient. In the case of Loss or theft it is up to the patient to file a claim with the appropriate delivery carrier, Bank / Credit Card & NYPD to attempt to cover their losses.
RESTOCKING FEE:
There is a $15 Re-stocking fee on any exchanged contact lenses.
How often should I be getting an eye exam?
Every year.
What if I don’t have any vision issues? Do I still need to get my eyes checked?
Absolutely! Clear vision is only one part of ensuring your eyes are healthy.
What dry eye/aesthetic treatments does Kuona offer?
Optilight (IPL) and Optilift (Radio Frequency)