Frame Fit Photo Gallery

Below are images that show the proper and improper fit of eyeglass frames. You may recall that I state, “Look, I mean really look at the fit.” I hope that the images show you just how close it is that you need to be looking to assure a proper fit.

Each image is paired with a written description of what to look for.

The most important lesson here is that this exercise is not about fashion! You must see beyond the way the frame looks and see how the frame actually fits. The ability to do this will be an important part of being a good optician.

Thanks to Charmant for the use of their frames.

Click the Charmant logo to visit Charmant.com

	We say that a frame that fits well should go straight back from the chassis end to the ear. The temple should not angle in or out and should not touch the face until just before the ear. The arrows indicate what a good fit would be so you can see that this frame is much too large for this patient.
	Notice the large gaps between the frame and her face. Notice that the temple bends in towards her head from the chassis end. These are both good indications that this frame is much too large for her.
	Here is the perfect example of seeing beyond the fashion. Pretty frame, pretty woman, but not a very pretty fit. The frame is much too small or narrow and the temples are actually touching her face. If this frame size was a 52 you would probably check to see if it came in a 54
	In this image the frame is too small. You can tell this by how the temples angle slightly out from the chassis end.
	Here is an excellent way to tell that a frame is too small! Look closely and you can see that the spring hinge is partially open.
	This is a much-exaggerated image but gives you an idea of what we mean when a frame is not level.
	This is what we mean when we say a frame is level. No, it is not an attractive frame and it is not even a great fit but the square shape lets you see the concept. As mentioned in the module you will need to decide what your reference point will be to level a frame, eyebrows or eyes.
	This is what we want to see when we look for nose-pad to nose contact. Look closely and you will see no sharp angles, no shadows, and the frame is well positioned on her nose.
	This image is slightly exaggerated but is still useful to get an idea about nose pad angles. Obviously, the pad on the left will need to be adjusted to meet the shape of the patient’s nose.
	Take a close look at the fit on these pads. At a glance, they look good but if you look closely (look for the shadow), you will see that they are actually angled away from the top of her nose and would need to be adjusted just a little.
	This frame may not be this patient’s first choice for fashion but it does show a great fit. Notice the way the frame matches the shape of her nose. It makes full contact for the entire bridge, along each eyewire and good contact with the molded nose pads, which can be seen behind the frame.
	This image shows a good fit. It is not perfect but it would certainly work for a light prescription or for a pair of back-up glasses for a contact lens wearer.
	Here is another example of a good fit. The frame sits well in relationship to her eyes, and the frame makes good consistent contact with her nose.
	This is what we never want to see when fitting a plastic frame. This is a keyhole bridge and they will only fit certain nose types. Notice how the frame only makes contact with the nose at two points and those two points are actually sharp edges! You can imagine this patient will be uncomfortable after wearing the glasses for a very short time.
	This is another example of what you do not want to see. This frame is only resting on two small contact areas and you can see the gap along the top. You never want to see gaps or spaces.
	This temple bend is too early since it is starting to bend before it reaches the ear. Notice what that early bend makes the frame do! It pushes it up, forces unwanted tilt, and actually pushes the frame down her nose.
	This is what we mean when we talk about vertex depth imbalance. It is usually caused by poor temple open angles or by a temple bend that is too tight.