Best Frames for High Prescription Lenses
Struggling to find stylish frames that suit a high prescription? At Mountain View Optometry, we understand how important it is to find the right balance between style, comfort, and vision. Explore our expert guide to discover the key factors to consider if you have a strong eyeglass prescription.
What is Considered a High Prescription?
A high prescription generally refers to lenses with a power of +/-6.00 diopters or higher. As the strength increases, so does the thickness and weight of the lenses. This can impact both how your glasses look and how they sit on your face—sometimes causing visual distortion, a "bug-eye" effect, or uncomfortable pressure points.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Frames for High Prescription Lenses
1. Material
Lightweight frame materials like titanium provide excellent support for thicker lenses without adding unnecessary bulk. These options are ideal for daily comfort and long-term wear.
2. Lens Size & Shape
Smaller lenses minimize edge thickness and weight. Round or oval-shaped frames tend to distribute lens thickness more evenly, perfect for maintaining a sleek look with strong prescriptions.
3. Frame Thickness & Rim Type
Opt for full-rim frames, which fully encase the lenses for better structural support. Avoid rimless or semi-rimless styles, which can make thick lenses more noticeable.
4. Bridge Fit & Comfort
A well-fitted bridge (the piece between the lenses that bridges your nose) ensures your glasses stay comfortably in place. Adjustable nose pads can help distribute weight more evenly-especially helpful for heavier lenses.
Checklist when choosing a frame for High-Prescription Lenses
✔️ Full-Rim Frames
Full-rim styles are the most supportive and conceal thicker lens edges well.
✔️ Round or Oval Frames
Rounder shapes tend to keep lenses uniformly thin and are especially flattering for higher prescriptions.
✔️ Plastic Frames
Plastic frames are naturally thicker, offering excellent edge concealment while being cost-effective, light weight, and available in a variety of colours and designs. Acetate frames stand out for their enhanced durability, flexibility, and richer finish, making them a premium alternative to standard plastic.
✔️ Titanium Frames
Titanium frames are ultra-lightweight and durable, making them perfect for people with high prescriptions who wear glasses all day.
Frames to Avoid with High-Prescription Lenses
- Oversized Frames: Amplify lens thickness and weight.
- Rimless/Semi-Rimless: Provide minimal support and expose lens edges.
- Deep Lens Shapes (e.g., Aviators): Exaggerate lens distortion and thickness.
- Wraparound Frames: May cause peripheral distortion in stronger prescriptions.
Tips to Reduce Lens Thickness and Weight
- Choose high-index lenses (1.67 or 1.74) for a thinner, lighter design.
- Select digital surfaced lenses to optimize lens thickness and reduce peripheral distortions.
- Frames with small rims reduce the lens material needed.
- Positioning the eyes as centrally as possible within the frame.
When you have a high prescription, selecting the right frames isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about comfort, performance, and long-term satisfaction. At Mountain View Optometry, our experienced optical team can help you find frames that fit your style and your vision needs.
Visit us to explore our curated selection of high-quality frames designed to complement strong prescriptions without compromising on comfort or clarity.
Written by Rosendo
About the Author:
Rosendo was born and raised in Havana, Cuba, where he began his professional journey studying Optometry and Optics. His career then took him to Dubai, where he worked in the optical field for two years as a Sales Associate. Now, he’s settled in Calgary and takes great pride in being a valued member of our Mountain View Optometry team as an Optical Associate.
