How to Choose Eyeglass Frames for a Flat Nose

With so many styles of eyeglass frames available, it can be difficult to know where to even begin when it comes to selecting one. For people with flat noses, including young children and others, the task is even harder, because most eyeglass frames are not made for them. Often, the frames will end up resting on the tops of their cheeks rather than propped on their noses. Fortunately, there are ways to remedy this problem by learning what eyeglass-frame nose bridges work best for flat noses and how to customize frames that don't fit properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Adjustable nose pads

1. Choose the right type of nose bridge on the frames. Look for a "keyhole bridge," which resembles vintage keyholes because it is narrow with high sides. It is found on metal frames.

2. Try on the frames to make sure the keyhole bridge sits high. It should not sit directly against the nose and cheeks.

3. If you cannot find any keyhole bridges that provide the fit you want, look for metal eyeglass frames that have separate nose pads. Having these pads can give you a custom fit for your nose shape.

4. Try on the metal frames with separate nose pads. Have your optometrist adjust the pads so that your frames sit high on your nose bridge and not against your cheeks.

5. If you cannot find any eyeglass frames with keyhole bridges or adjustable nose pads that you like, or if you have your heart set on a plastic frame style that doesn't fit correctly, have your optometrist attach nose pads to the frames. He will have you try on the frames and mark where the nose pads should go to give you the best fit; then he will drill holes and attach the nose pads for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Metal eyeglass frames are more likely to fit a flat nose bridge than plastic because the bridge is thinner and more easily adjustable.

Resources

• Vision RX