For a strong prescription, the best glasses combine a smaller, well-fitted frame with thin high-index lenses and precise measurements. Frame size has the biggest effect on lens thickness and weight, while lens material and design affect how thin and natural your eyes look. At Lucent Family Eye Care in Vancouver, our licensed opticians help you choose designer eyewear that suits both your style and your prescription.
Why Strong Prescriptions Make Lenses Thicker
Nearsighted (minus) prescriptions
are thinnest in the centre and thickest at the edges
Farsighted (plus) prescriptions
are thickest in the centre
A lens bends light to focus it on your retina. The stronger the prescription, the more the lens has to bend light, and the thicker it becomes.
- Nearsighted (minus) prescriptions are thinnest in the centre and thickest at the edges. Large frames show more of that thick edge.
- Farsighted (plus) prescriptions are thickest in the centre. Large frames make the centre thicker and the lenses heavier.
- Astigmatism can make some edges of the lens thicker than others, so frame shape matters too.
The good news is that the right frame, lens and fit can make a big difference in how your glasses look and feel.
Frame Size: The Biggest Factor in Lens Thickness
Choosing a frame that is proportionate to your face is the most effective way to keep strong lenses thin and light.
- Choose a smaller lens size. Smaller lenses mean less thickness at the edge or centre.
- Look for a frame that centres your eyes. Your pupils should sit close to the middle of each lens. Frames that are too wide push your eyes toward the inner edge and increase thickness on the outer side.
- Favour rounder or softer shapes. Round and oval lenses often keep edge thickness more even than wide rectangles.
- Consider full-rim frames for minus prescriptions. A full rim, especially in acetate, helps hide thick lens edges. Rimless styles can show more of the edge.
- Check the bridge fit. Frames that slide down your nose move the lenses out of position. If this happens often, see our guide to low bridge glasses.
Lens Thickness: Materials and Designs That Help
| Lens option | What it does | Why it helps a strong prescription |
|---|---|---|
| High-index lenses | Bend light more efficiently | Thinner, lighter lenses for the same prescription |
| Aspheric lens design | Flatter lens curves | Less bulge and less magnification or minification of your eyes |
| Anti-reflective coating | Reduces reflections | Fewer visible rings in the lens and clearer night vision |
| Scratch-resistant coating | Protects the lens surface | Keeps premium lenses clearer for longer |
We offer lenses from HOYA, Nikon, Zeiss, Essilor and Shamir, and our opticians will recommend the material and design that suit your prescription and budget. Explore our prescription lenses.
Comfort: Weight, Fit and Measurements
Strong lenses are heavier, so comfort depends on how well the frame carries that weight.
- Lightweight materials. Japanese titanium and stainless steel frames are strong and light, which helps with heavier lenses. Brands such as Masunaga and DITA offer titanium options.
- Adjustable nose pads. These help balance the weight and keep the lenses in the right position.
- Accurate measurements. With strong prescriptions, small errors in lens centring can cause strain or distortion. Our opticians, with over 30 years of experience, meticulously ensure all measurements are as precise as possible.
- A proper adjustment. Temples and pads should be adjusted so the frame sits evenly without pressure points.
Progressive Lenses for Strong Prescriptions
If you need help with both distance and near vision, progressive lenses are available for strong prescriptions too. Fitting height and frame depth are especially important. Learn more about progressive lenses in Vancouver.
Can You Get Same-Day Glasses With a Strong Prescription?
Our in-house edging lab often finishes eligible single-vision glasses in under an hour. However, very strong prescriptions, prism correction and some custom lens designs may need an outside lab. In those cases, many patients choose a same-day backup pair while their custom glasses are being made. Read more about same-day prescription glasses.
Start With an Up-to-Date Prescription
Even the best frames cannot fix an outdated prescription. If your vision has changed, or it has been more than one to two years since your last check, book a comprehensive eye exam before choosing new glasses. People with high myopia also benefit from regular retinal checks with Optomap imaging.
Visit Our Optical in Marpole, Vancouver
Our licensed opticians are happy to help you try frames and compare lens options. Visit us at 612 West 58th Avenue, minutes from Oakridge, Kerrisdale, South Vancouver and Richmond. Walk-ins are welcome with a current prescription. We direct bill most major BC extended health plans, and financing is available. Call or text 604-777-7579, or book an eye exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of frame is best for thick lenses?
Smaller frames with rounder or softer shapes usually keep thick lenses thinner and lighter. Full-rim frames, especially in acetate, also help hide thick edges on nearsighted prescriptions.
What type of frame is best for high-index lenses?
Most frames work with high-index lenses, but a well-fitted, proportionate frame gives the best result. Your pupils should sit near the centre of each lens to keep thickness even.
What glasses should I wear if my prescription is high?
Choose a smaller, well-centred frame, thin high-index lenses with an aspheric design, and an anti-reflective coating. Precise measurements and a proper fit make strong lenses more comfortable.
Are high-index lenses worth it?
For strong prescriptions, high-index lenses are usually worthwhile because they are noticeably thinner and lighter. Our opticians can show you how different materials compare for your prescription.
Can I get same-day glasses with a strong prescription?
Sometimes. Eligible single-vision prescriptions can often be finished in under an hour in our in-house lab, but very strong prescriptions and some custom lenses need an outside lab.