Eyeglass Frame FAQ's

Whether you are a busy mom, a corporate executive, an active child or an athlete, Lifetime Eye Care has eyeglass frames to fit your lifestyle and the Optical Staff with the experience to assist you in choosing a frame that is right for you.

If you're getting ready to purchase your first or your 40th pair of frames, there are a few tips you should consider. In this post Carol, Nancy, Tammy and Keri have answered the questions most frequently asked by patients during the process of selecting their eyeglass frames.

Q: What's the secret to finding the perfect pair of frames?
A: Before looking at frames, the prescription and the person's lifestyle are considered. We look at what the primary use of the glasses will be...driving, reading, sports, computer, fulltime or partime wear? Those factors have a large impact on the direction we take with the patient.

Q: Can one pair of frames do it all?
A: The same factors apply to this question as the previous one...lifestyle, prescription, primary use. The lens industry offers options today for those patients wanting only one pair of frames with lenses that change color, as well as bifocal and trifocal viewing. Yet, many of our patients purchase glasses for wear indoors and another pair for sunglasses.

Q: What is the most common mistake a patient makes when selecting a pair of frames?
A: Choosing a style over function. We want to see our patients in glasses that make them look great, but if they're too heavy, they'll slip and slide. If the frame is too narrow it will push off the sides of the head causing discomfort. Next thing you know, that great-looking frame is in the case instead of on the face where it belongs.

Q: Is there a rule of thumb for selecting a certain shape or style of frame?
A: Opposites attract! Most people have a round or oval face, therefore the most common frame shape is rectangular. The best shape is that oppostie of your face shape. Of course, there are exceptions. If you have a round face and you really love the look of a more rounded frame, we will steer you toward a rectangular frame with rounded edges for a softer look. Remember, it has to fit comfortably. It's always better to bet the correct fit rather than a pair of frames that you love when they are in the display case or in the pages of a magazine.

Q: Does skin tone matter when choosing a frame?
A: Yes. some people look great in warm tones, and others look better in cooler tones. The color of the frame should complement your skin tone, not detract from it.

Q: What is popular in men's frames?
A: We are noticing a trend towards a single-bar bridge and find that many men choose frames with a magnetic sunclip for convenience.

Q: And for women?
A: Women view their frames as an accessory, so they give style a great deal of consideration as much as jewelry or shoes. So many styles are available for women today that it would be difficult to pinpoint one trend. Many women love the wide temples with bling, designer logos, or patterns while others prefer something subtle and sleek. As opticians, we want to be sure the fit is comfortable, and if the patient is happy with the style, we are happy, too.

Q: Should parents choose frames that their child will grow into?
A: You canot hem frames, so the answer is no. It is extremely important that a child's frames fit perfectly, or they won't want to wear them. In most cases, children will need new frames every year to keep up with their growth rate. Their prescription may change each year as well so it is critical that they return each year for their annual evaluation.

Q: Do kids balk at having to wear glasses?
A: When I was a kid it was a big deal. Now glasses are cool with the kids. We have children leave our office crying if they don't need them!

Q: What are special considerations parents should make when looking for their child's frames?
A: Durability! Kids are harder on their glasses than adults and boys are harder on them than girls. We usually suggest metal frames with nose pads. Kids also have a flatter nose bridge, so that is something we look at, also.

Q: What is your secret to successful frame selection?
A: The selection experience has to be tailored for every patient, so the process is always different. The process is a unique journey for everyone.

Adjusting to Progressive Multifocals

Old-fashioned bifocals and trifocals have been a common remedy for close vision problems. However, their annoying segmentation and unsightly lines present unnatural optical limitations and ruin the look of stylish eyewear.

Progressive lenses provide you with the most natural vision possible. Historically, bifocals and trifocals have had a visible line between the upper distance and the lower reading sections. While progressive lenses are somewhat more expensive, they offer a unique fuller range of vision and youthful appearance, making them attractive to many patients.

Progressive lenses, as with all multi-focal lenses, require an initial period of training and adjustment for the first-time wearer.

Our Optical staff is available to assist our patients requiring multifocal lenses during their transition time. An appointment is not necessary.

Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, Optician?

Illinois Optometric Association Conference

Dr. Esarey and myself along with Keri, Becky, Nancy, and Tammy spent last Thursday through Sunday in Itasca, Illinois attending courses and seminars at the Annual Meeting of the Illlinois Optometric Association. Cheryl and Carol remained in Charleston in order to keep the office open for any of our patients wishing to pick up glasses or contacts or those needing adjustments for their glasses.

Continuing staff education is essential to the standard of patient care we have set at Lifetime Eye Care. While at the Annual Meeting, our staff and doctors attended courses in "Managing Ocular Emergencies," "Ocular Mathematics," "Managing Ocular Infections," "Team-Based Medicine," "Insurance Billing and Coding," "New Technologies in Treating Macular Degeneration," and "Expanding the Scope of Primary Care." We were introduced to the newest frame styles, lens types, treatments, contact lens options, and diagnostic tools available.