Choosing the Best Frames for High Prescription Lenses
Reviewed by
Bridget Anderson
When buying new glasses, there are quite a few practical – and of course, aesthetic – factors to consider, and even more if you’ve got a high prescription.
Whether you’re wearing glasses for work, leisure, or everyday use, selecting the right frames can significantly impact your comfort and appearance.
This guide will help you understand a high prescription and provide practical tips on choosing frames that support your lenses and suit your personal style.
What is considered a high prescription?
A high prescription usually refers to lenses with a power equal to or greater than greater than +/- 5 diopters.
A high prescription can result in thicker lenses, if a suitable lens index is not chosen, which can affect your choice of eyeglass frames.
Knowing this will help you choose the most suitable frames that can support your strong prescription while maintaining a sleek appearance.
6 tips for finding the best frames for thick lenses
Finding the perfect pair of glasses for thick lenses involves considering various factors such as frame size, shape, material, and style.
Here are some essential tips to help you choose the right frames for your high prescription lenses:
Small frames
Smaller frames are ideal for high prescription lenses because they reduce the lens thickness at the edges and make the lens size less noticeable.
Glasses with small frames make thick lenses appear thinner and also distribute the overall weight of the glasses, enhancing comfort.

Round and oval frames
Another easy way to hide thicker lenses is to choose round and oval frames. Full-rimmed ones in particular are the go-to choice for high prescription glasses.
Combining these two characteristics will help to disguise thick lens edges by enclosing them completely.

Colored frames
Colored frames are a cool trick to draw attention away from the thick lenses.
Choosing a frame in either a vibrant or darker color can make your eyeglasses appear less bulky while creating an aesthetically pleasing look.

DID YOU KNOW?
Patterned frames can serve as a camouflage for the thickness of high prescription lenses.
Plastic over metal frame
Plastic frames are the best pick for high prescription lenses because they are lightweight and offer a thicker frame material that can mask the lens edges.

Metal frames are not recommended because they add extra weight to the glasses and can feel uncomfortable for longer use.
If you prefer the look of metal frames, titanium is a lightweight and durable option that can support high prescriptions effectively.
Precise PD measurement
Now that you know what frame types work for high prescription lenses, it’s time to talk about important lens features, especially if you have a strong prescription.
Pupillary distance (PD) is the distance between your pupils and is crucial for ensuring that your lenses are correctly aligned.
Your PD measurement must be accurate to avoid discomfort, headaches, or blurred vision.
High index lenses to eliminate the "coke bottle effect"
A high prescription can often lead to the “coke bottle effect” which can cause your eyes to appear smaller, magnified, or distorted.

To avoid this effect, you can opt for high index lenses. They are made from a material thinner than polycarbonate and are designed to be lighter, more comfortable, and more visually appealing when you require a higher prescription.
High index lenses are a great solution if you want frame styles such as pilot, or if you’d like to have metal frames without worrying about the thickness and weight of your lenses.
Treatments like anti-reflective coatings can improve your vision and also make the lens appear thinner by reducing glare.
Frames to avoid with a high prescription
Before you order your new frames, there are some frame styles you’ll want to avoid that can lead to discomfort or an unappealing look.
Oversized or very small frames
Frames that are too large exaggerate lens thickness and may make your vision less clear. Also, big frames with sharp angular edges can lead to even more distorted vision.
As mentioned earlier, small frames are recommended for high prescription glasses. However, it’s important not to take this advice too far, as frames that are too small may not provide adequate support for thicker lenses.
These frames offer a limited vision area and can make it harder to see.
Rimless or semi-rimless frames
Rimless or semi-rimless frames are not ideal for high prescription lenses. These styles often lack the necessary support for thick lenses, making wearing glasses uncomfortable.

These frame styles can draw attention to the lens thickness because they leave the edges exposed.
If you want rimless or semi-rimless frames for your high prescription lenses, you should choose high index lenses to accommodate your wish.
Choose a frame you'll love
Ultimately, the best frames for high prescription lenses are those that you love and feel confident wearing.
By considering these tips and focusing on your personal preferences, you can find the right frames that offer clear vision, comfort, and a look that complements your unique personality.
If you need assistance choosing suitable glasses for you, feel free to get in touch with our in-house opticians for personalized advice.