We have all seen (and possibly experienced) poorly fitting spectacles. I’m not talking about someone wearing a bold or out-of-date style. I’m talking about the inability to function comfortably or confidently due to the way the frames and lenses were manufactured. 

The process starts with an updated spectacle prescription from your eyecare provider. Typically, yearly prescription updates are adequate, but sometimes more frequently is necessary. It’s not common for the prescription to remain optimal after a year's expiration.  

After the accurate prescription, a frame should be selected that will work well with the script. For example, high minus prescriptions don't always fit well in large frames. In addition, frames should also be selected based on the shape of the patients’ nose, ears, and head. As well as for the specific tasks that they will be used for. 

After the accurate prescription has been determined and the well-fitting frame has been selected, measurements must be taken. The term “PD” is used frequently when it comes to prescriptions, but that is just one of the many measurements taken. Most prescriptions require more than just a PD for ideal vision and comfort.  These measurements are best taken by a seasoned optician to avoid error. Just like any other measurement, if it is not precise, it may lead to problems down the line.

If any of these steps are skipped or mishandled, the process breaks down. Things can really get messy when multiple sources are involved. For example, if someone acquires a frame from an online retailer, and uses their script from their trusted optometrist, but takes both to a different optical for the lenses to be made. Troubleshooting frames and lenses that did not turn out as expected can be quite frustrating. This is best avoided by following protocol and keeping everything in-house.