Eyewear Guide: How to Choose Glasses & Lenses

Start With Your Eye Exam

The best eyewear recommendations begin with a comprehensive eye exam. Your prescription, eye health, comfort, and daily routine all affect which frames and lenses will work best.

During your visit at Modern Optical NY on Kings Highway, we help you:

• Confirm your most accurate prescription
• Review screen, reading, driving, and outdoor needs
• Choose lens features based on comfort and performance
• Find frames that fit well and feel great all day

When you are ready to browse styles, visit our eyewear catalog or explore designer brands we carry in-store.

How to Choose the Right Frame Size

Choosing the right frame size is just as important as choosing the right prescription. Glasses that are too wide slip down, too narrow pinch, and poorly sized bridges leave pressure marks. Understanding a few key measurements makes it easy to find a comfortable, well-proportioned fit.

Understanding frame measurements

Every pair of glasses has three standard measurements printed on the inside of the temple arm (the piece that goes over your ear). They are usually separated by a small square or dash and look something like 52-18-140.

• Lens width (first number) — The horizontal width of one lens in millimeters. This is the most important number for overall frame size.
• Bridge width (second number) — The distance between the two lenses, measured across the nose bridge in millimeters. This determines how the frame sits on your nose.
• Temple length (third number) — The full length of the temple arm from the hinge to the tip that curves behind your ear, in millimeters. This affects how securely the glasses stay in place.

How to read the numbers on your frames

Look on the inside of either temple arm near the hinge. You will typically see the brand name, model number, and a sequence like 52-18-140. Some frames also print the lens width and bridge width on the inside of the nose bridge itself. If the numbers are worn off, your optician can measure the frame for you.

Measuring without existing glasses

If you do not have a pair of glasses to reference, you can estimate your sizing needs:

• Face width — Hold a ruler across your face at the temples (the flat area beside your eyes). Most adult faces measure between 125 mm and 150 mm across. Your ideal frame should match this width closely so the temples align with the sides of your head.
• Pupillary distance (PD) — This is the distance between the centers of your pupils, measured in millimeters. Your optometrist measures this during your exam. PD helps determine where your lenses should be centered within the frame for optimal clarity.

Frame size ranges

General adult sizing ranges based on lens width:

Bridge width typically ranges from 16 mm to 22 mm. A narrower bridge (16–18 mm) suits faces with a higher or thinner nose bridge, while a wider bridge (19–22 mm) works better for lower or broader nose bridges.

Temple length usually falls between 135 mm and 150 mm for adults. If temples feel too short or too long, your optician can help identify the right measurement.

Children's sizing considerations

Children need smaller proportions across all three measurements:

• Lens widths typically range from 42 mm to 48 mm for younger children and 46 mm to 52 mm for older children and teens
• Adjustable nose pads help accommodate growing faces and keep frames from sliding during activity
• Flexible or spring-hinged temples add durability and comfort for active daily use
• Sizing should be re-evaluated at each kids eye exam as children's faces change quickly

Tips for comparing sizes across brands

Frame measurements are standard across the industry, but fit can still vary between brands due to differences in frame shape, curvature, and temple design. Keep these tips in mind:

• Always compare all three numbers, not just lens width
• A frame with the same measurements but a rounder shape will feel different from a more rectangular one
• When shopping online, check the product listing for the full measurement set and compare it against a pair you already own and find comfortable
• If you are between sizes or trying a new brand, visiting the store for a fitting ensures the best result
• Our opticians can measure your current frames and recommend sizes that will work well for your face

Frame fit and comfort checklist

Use this quick checklist before purchasing:

• Frames sit evenly without slipping
• Nose bridge feels secure without pressure marks
• Temples feel stable without pinching
• Lenses center correctly in front of your eyes
• You can wear the pair comfortably for long periods

If fit is off, even the right prescription can feel uncomfortable. Proper adjustments make a major difference.

Lens Coatings & Add-Ons

Depending on your routine, these upgrades can improve daily comfort and durability:

• Anti-reflective coating for clearer night driving and less glare
• Scratch-resistant protection for longer lens life
• Smudge-resistant finish for easier cleaning
• UV protection for year-round outdoor eye safety

We help prioritize features so you only pay for what supports your real use cases. For Essilor lens families — including Eyezen, Varilux, Transitions, Crizal, and Xperio UV — see our advanced lens technology hub rather than duplicating full product detail here.

Eyewear care tips

• Clean lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaner
• Avoid paper towels or clothing that can scratch coatings
• Store glasses in a hard case when not in use
• Keep frames away from high heat (car dashboards, heaters)
• Schedule periodic adjustments to maintain fit