How to Size Glasses Frames

Eyeglasses are available in many styles, sizes and colors. Getting the perfect fit looks great, and it is also very important for seeing correctly, especially with certain types of prescriptions. Care should be taken when picking out and sizing your eyeglasses frames.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler with millimeters

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Instructions

• 1

  Pick a material. Glasses frames are available in plastic and metal. Plastic frames are usually lighter and available in many colors. Metal frames tend to be more durable and last longer.

• 2

  Select a style. Frames should contrast your face shape. If your face is round, choose an angular frame. If your face is angular, choose oval or round frames. The frame size is marked on the bridge (nosepiece) of the frame or the temple (arm). If you find a style you like, but it is too small or too large, you may be able to order the frame in a different size.

• 3

  Measure the fit. An ideal fit for a frame is to have your eyes centered in the middle horizontally of the lenses. If the frame is too wide, you will look cross-eyed. Too narrow of a frame makes your eyes appear buggy. Vertically, your eye should be in the top half to third of the lens.

• 4

  Note the size. Frames are measured and ordered in millimeters (mm) and are determined by one lens size, usually 48 to 54 millimeters, but can be less or more. A typical frame size might be written as 50x20x145. The first number is the lens size. The second number is the bridge size, or the distance between lenses. The third number is the temple size, the part of the frame that fits around your ear.

• 5

  Make sure the frame is the right size for your prescription. Eyeglasses that are made for extremely nearsighted or farsighted prescriptions should be put into smaller styles to ensure optical clarity. No-line bifocals require a certain depth to the lens, usually 20 millimeters from the pupil to the bottom of the frame.