Eyeglass frame sizes are usually measured in millimeters. A frame marked 54-17-140 typically means a 54 mm lens width, a 17 mm bridge width, and a 140 mm temple length.

These three numbers are often printed inside one of the temple arms or near the bridge of the frame. Other useful measurements, including total frame width and lens height, may need to be measured separately.

If you already own a pair of glasses that fits comfortably, comparing its measurements with a new frame can help you choose a similar size.

Example: 54-17-140

54 = Lens Width

17 = Bridge Width

140 = Temple Length

Eyeglass Frame Measurements at a Glance

Measurement What It Means
Lens Width The horizontal width of one lens opening, measured at its widest point.
Bridge Width The distance between the two lens openings across the bridge of the frame.
Temple Length The length of the temple arm from the hinge toward the end that rests behind the ear.
Frame Width The total horizontal width across the front of the frame at its widest point.
Lens Height The vertical height of the lens opening at its tallest point.
Eyeglass frame showing 54 mm lens width, 17 mm bridge width and 140 mm temple length

How to Read the Numbers on Your Glasses

In this example, the frame size is shown as 54-17-140.

  • Lens Width: 54 mm
  • Bridge Width: 17 mm
  • Temple Length: 140 mm

Frame measurements are generally listed in millimeters.

How to measure eyeglass lens width

Lens Width

Lens width is the horizontal width of one lens opening, measured at its widest point.

It is usually the first number in a three-number frame size. For example, in 54-17-140, the lens width is 54 mm.

How to measure eyeglass bridge width

Bridge Width

Bridge width is the distance between the two lens openings across the bridge of the frame.

It is usually the second number in the frame size. In 54-17-140, the bridge width is 17 mm.

Bridge shape and nose-pad design can also affect how a frame sits on the nose, so two frames with the same printed bridge width may not always feel exactly the same.

How to measure eyeglass temple arm length

Temple Length

Temple length is the length of the arm that extends from the frame hinge toward the end that rests behind your ear.

It is normally the third number in a three-number frame size. In 54-17-140, the temple length is 140 mm.

How to measure total eyeglass frame width

Frame Width

Frame width is the total horizontal width across the front of the glasses at the widest point.

This measurement is not normally included in the standard three-number size printed on the frame, so you may need to measure it yourself.

Place the frame on a flat surface and measure straight across the widest part of the front, including any hinges or frame details that extend beyond the lens area.

How to measure eyeglass lens height

Lens Height

Lens height is the vertical height of the lens opening, measured at its tallest point.

Lens height is not normally part of the three-number frame size printed on the temples.

It can be useful when comparing frame shapes and when checking whether a frame is suitable for the type of lenses you plan to order.

How to Use Your Current Glasses to Choose a Frame Size

If your current glasses fit comfortably, use them as a reference when shopping for a new frame.

  • Check the three numbers printed inside the temple arm or near the bridge.
  • Compare lens width, bridge width and temple length with the new frame.
  • Measure the total frame width if it is not listed.
  • Compare the overall shape and bridge design, because frames with similar measurements can still fit differently.