Why is eyeglass size important?
The correct size gives you:
Better comfort.
Stability while moving.
Proper lens positioning.
A balanced look.
Less pressure on your nose and ears.
Better performance of your prescription lenses.
A frame may be beautiful, but it won't fit properly if it slips or presses against your face.
What do the numbers on eyeglasses mean?
There are usually three numbers printed inside the temples of eyeglasses, such as:
52 – 18 – 140
These mean:
52 mm: Width of a single lens.
18 mm: Bridge width.
140 mm: Temple length.
An additional number may be displayed to indicate the lens height or the model's color.
Lens width
Lens width is the horizontal measurement of a single lens.
Generally:
Small lenses suit small faces.
Medium lenses suit most faces.
Large lenses suit wide faces or large designs.
But the shape of the lens also matters. A 50mm round lens may appear larger than a rectangular lens of the same size.
Bridge Width
The bridge is the part that rests on the nose.
If it's too narrow:
It may press against the nose.
It may leave marks.
It may lift the glasses too high.
If it's too wide:
The glasses may slip.
They may move around when you walk.
The lenses may touch your cheeks.
The lenses may shift in position in front of your eyes.
Temperature Length
The temple extends from the hinge to behind the ear.
If it's too short:
It may press against behind the ear.
It may pull the frame forward.
It may cause discomfort.
If it's too long:
It may not stay in place.
The glasses may slip.
The end extends too far behind the ear.
How to Measure Your Current Glasses
If you have comfortable glasses:
Check the numbers inside the temple.
Note the lens width.
Note the bridge width.
Note the temple length.
Use this as a reference when purchasing. The new glasses don't need to be an exact match, but close measurements reduce the chance of error.
Signs of a Proper Fit
Properly Fitted Glasses:
They don't slip.
They don't press against the temples.
They don't leave deep marks on the nose.
They don't touch the cheeks.
They sit horizontally.
They don't move when you bend over.
The eyes are balanced within the lenses.
The arms curve comfortably behind the ears.
Signs That Glasses Are Too Big
The frame is noticeably wider than the face.
The glasses constantly slip.
The bridge is wide.
The lenses touch the cheeks.
The arms are too long.
The glasses move around when you walk.
Signs That Glasses Are Too Small
They press against the sides of the head.
The arms are too far from the head.
The bridge presses against the nose.
The frame leaves noticeable marks.
The hinges feel tight.
The eyes are too close to the edges of the lenses.
Is the size the same for all frame shapes?
No.
A size 52 might fit you in a rectangular frame, while you'd need a 50 or 54 in a round frame.
Size is affected by:
Frame shape.
Edge thickness.
Bridge position.
Temple design.
Frame curvature.
Lens depth.
Appropriate size for high prescription lenses.
If you have high prescription, a smaller frame may help:
Reduce lens thickness.
Lighten weight.
Improve appearance.
Reduce peripheral distortion.
This should be discussed with an optician before choosing a larger frame.
How to choose your glasses size online?
Use your current glasses numbers.
Read the size chart.
Review the model's front and side views.
Check the full frame width.
Use a virtual try-on.
Consider the exchange policy.
Don't rely solely on small, medium, or large sizing.
Common approximate sizes
Sizing varies between companies, but generally:
Small size: Relatively narrower lens width.
Medium size: The most common size.
Large size: Suitable for wide faces or oversized designs.
Actual sizes are more accurate than these classifications.
Choosing the right size in the Gulf climate
With heat and perspiration, ill-fitting frames can easily slip. Therefore, choose:
A stable bridge.
Proper nose pads.
Lightweight material.
Temples that don't pinch.
A rust-resistant frame.
A fit that stays in place when walking.
Shop by size with Lens Code
At Lens Code, you can check the frame dimensions before buying and compare the lens width, bridge width, and temple length to choose a model that's closest to your size.
The bottom line
To find the right eyeglass size, start by reading the numbers on your current glasses, then observe the frame's stability and the comfort of the bridge and temples. The correct size doesn't pinch or slip and keeps the lenses positioned in front of your eyes.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find my eyeglass size?
Inside one of the temples or on the bridge of the frame.
Can I choose the size based on face width only?
Face width is important, but bridge width, temple length, and frame shape should also be considered.
Do large glasses affect vision?
They can if the lenses shift or the optics are positioned further away from the eyes.
Can the fit be adjusted after purchase?
The temples and nose pads can sometimes be adjusted, but the basic frame width cannot be changed.
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A team specialized in optical sciences and eye care, dedicated to providing the latest information and advice to help you choose the perfect glasses and contact lenses.