Frames and fitting advice
Choosing the Right Frames
The right frame should look good, feel comfortable, and work properly with your lenses.
Choosing glasses is not just about style. A good frame also needs to fit your face, support the lenses properly, and suit your prescription and how you use your glasses.
At Waipapa Eyecare, we help you consider fit, comfort, lens suitability, durability, and appearance before you make your choice.
What we look for
- Comfortable bridge and nose fit
- Correct temple length and secure fit
- Lens size suitable for your prescription
- Enough depth for progressive or bifocal lenses
- Frame shape that suits your face and lens needs
- Material and durability for daily use
- Accurate measurements for lens fitting
Frame style matters, but fit matters too
A frame can look great on the shelf but still be unsuitable if it does not fit your face or does not leave enough room for the lenses you need.
Physical fit
The frame should sit comfortably on your nose, stay secure behind your ears, and not press heavily on your temples or cheeks.
Lens suitability
Some frames are better suited to certain prescriptions and lens types. Stronger prescriptions, progressives, bifocals, and thinner lens options all need careful frame choice.
Daily use
Your glasses need to suit how you actually use them, whether that is full-time wear, reading, computer work, driving, sport, or occasional use.
Progressive and bifocal lenses need enough frame depth
For progressive lenses, we generally look for at least 18mm from the pupil centre to the bottom of the frame. For bifocal lenses, we generally look for at least 14mm. This helps ensure there is enough useful lens area for the design to work properly.
Common frame types
Different frame styles have different strengths. The best choice depends on your prescription, lens type, fit, and personal preference.
Full rim frames
Full rim frames completely surround the lenses. They provide good lens support and are often a practical choice for stronger prescriptions or lenses that need more structure.
They also come in a wide range of styles, from subtle and classic to bold and modern.
Semi-rimless frames
Semi-rimless frames usually have a frame across the top of the lenses with the lower edge exposed. They can look lighter than a full rim frame while still giving some structure.
They may not be suitable for every lens type or prescription, so fit and lens choice need to be checked carefully.
Rimless frames
Rimless frames are minimal and lightweight, with the lenses attached directly to the bridge and arms.
They can look very discreet, but they generally need more careful handling and may not suit all prescriptions or lens materials.
Frame materials
The material affects weight, feel, adjustment, durability, and style.
Acetate frames
Acetate is a popular frame material with a wide range of colours, patterns, and shapes. It often has a warmer feel on the face than many metal frames.
Acetate frames can usually be adjusted, but they should be kept away from excessive heat, such as a hot car dashboard, as heat can affect the shape.
Metal frames
Metal frames can be slim, lightweight, and adjustable. Some materials, such as titanium, can be particularly light and corrosion resistant.
Metal frames come in many styles, including full rim, semi-rimless, and rimless designs. Some people prefer metal for a more subtle look.
Higher prescriptions need careful frame choice
If you have a stronger prescription, frame size and shape can make a big difference to lens thickness, weight, appearance, and comfort. Smaller, well-centred frames often work better than very large frames.
We can help you choose a frame that suits both your style and your lenses.
Reusing your existing frame
You do not always need to buy a new frame to get new lenses.
Can I reuse my frame?
Often, yes. If your current frame is in good condition and suitable for the lenses you need, we may be able to fit new lenses into it.
Onsite lab convenience
In many cases, once your new lenses are ready, our onsite lab can fit them into your existing frame while you wait.
Common questions
Here are a few practical things to think about when choosing frames.
Should I choose the biggest frame I like?
Not always. Large frames can increase lens thickness, weight, and distortion, especially with stronger prescriptions. We will help you balance appearance with lens performance.
Can any frame take progressive lenses?
No. Progressive lenses need enough vertical lens depth and suitable positioning. We check this before recommending a frame.
What if glasses slip down my nose?
A frame that slips may need adjustment, different nose pads, a better bridge fit, or a different frame shape. Fit is just as important as style.
Are rimless frames strong?
Rimless frames can work well for some people, but they are more delicate than many full rim frames and may not suit all prescriptions or lifestyles.
Need help choosing frames?
You can book online, phone us, or call in and see us at Waipapa Eyecare.
For urgent eye problems, sudden vision changes, flashes, floaters, eye pain, or injury, please phone us rather than using online booking.
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