How Opticians Can Help Patients Find The Perfect Frames for their Face Shape

As an optician, you have a key role in helping patients select the perfect pair of frames. While upselling frames or lenses can be effective, there's another approach that can be even more successful— getting personal with your patients by identifying their face shape. After all, they rely on your expertise and opinion to find the frames that will make them look and feel their best.

Helping your patients find their perfect pair of frames is not only rewarding in itself, but it's also a great way to generate extra revenue in your optical dispensary. By taking the time to really understand your patients' needs and preferences, you can help them find frames that not only look great but also feel comfortable and suit their lifestyle. 

Unlocking Style and Comfort: Opticians Guide Patients to Selecting Frames for Every Face Shape

Determine face shape

The first step in finding the perfect frames is to determine their face shape. There are six main face shapes: round, oval, square, heart, diamond, and triangle. To determine their face shape, have them stand in front of a mirror and outline their reflection to help you visualize their shape if it's not already obvious. Once you have traced their face shape, compare it to the following descriptions:

• Round: If the face is rounded with soft features and no sharp angles, they have a round face shape.
• Oval: If the face is longer than it is wide with a gently curved jawline, they have an oval face shape.
• Square: If the face is angular with a strong jawline, square forehead, and square chin, they have a square face shape.
• Heart: If the face is wider at the temples and narrows at the chin, they have a heart-shaped face.
• Diamond: If the face is widest at the cheekbones and narrows at the forehead and jawline, they have a diamond face shape.
• Triangle: If the face is wider at the jawline and narrows at the forehead, they have a triangle face shape.

Frames that Complement Different Face Shapes

Once you have determined your patient's face shape, it's time to find frames that complement their features. Here are some tips on which frames work best for each face shape:

• Round: Round faces should avoid frames that are too small or too round. Instead, opt for frames that are rectangular or square-shaped with sharp angles to add definition to the face.
• Oval: Oval faces can wear just about any style of frame, but rectangular or square-shaped frames are best for adding balance to the face.
• Square: Square faces should avoid frames that are too angular or too square. Instead, opt for frames that are round or oval-shaped to soften the angles of the face.
• Heart: Heart-shaped faces should avoid frames that are too heavy or too wide at the top. Instead, opt for frames that are wider at the bottom to balance out the face.
• Diamond: Diamond faces should avoid frames that are too narrow or too round. Instead, opt for frames that are wider than the cheekbones and have bold, angular lines.
• Triangle: Triangle faces should avoid frames that are too narrow or too heavy at the top. Instead, opt for frames that are wider at the top and gradually narrow towards the bottom.

Let Frames Reflect Their Personality  

Remember, helping your patient find the right frames is not just about following guidelines but also about letting them express their individuality and personal style. So, take these recommendations as a starting point, and don't be afraid to experiment and explore different frame styles until you find their perfect match.