Do you need to zoom out what you read to focus your vision better? Do you hold your phone at a distance to see the letters? If these situations sound familiar to you, you are experiencing the symptoms of presbyopia. This visual condition affects people as they age, and it can be corrected with the use of multifocal lenses.

There are many benefits that you can find with a single lens: improved vision at different distances, ease of adaptation, and much more. If there is more information that you need to learn about it, we will explain everything here.

What are Multifocal Lenses?

Multifocal or Progressive lenses are a type of ophthalmic lens that allows vision problems to be corrected for both distance and near in the same lens. This means that it will not be necessary to change them to see clearly at different distances.

The reason behind their functionalities lies in their design: on the same surface, they integrate different graduations that allow you to focus correctly at multiple distances. This feature makes them very useful if you have presbyopia problems and other age-related vision errors.

Types of Multifocal Lenses

Bifocal Lenses

They offer two correction zones, one for near vision and another for distance vision. The bottom part of the lens is used for close vision, while the top part is used for distance vision.

Trifocal Lenses

They have three correction zones: near, intermediate, and distance vision. The bottom part of the lens is used for near vision, the middle part for intermediate vision, and the top part for distance vision.

Progressive Lenses

Also known as “lineless” or “prescription” lenses, they gradually transition from near to far vision correction without a visible line on the lens. This makes them more aesthetically appealing and comfortable to wear than bifocals and trifocals.

You Must Learn to Look through them

Your ophthalmologist may recommend moving your eyes over different areas of the progressive lenses to focus on objects at different distances. With this exercise, you may experience distortions, headaches, dizziness, and even depth perception problems, all due to the multiple powers of the lens.

You will have a Period of Adaptation

The break-in period can last up to two weeks, and you must wear the progressive lenses consistently to speed up the process. If you still experience discomfort after this time, it is best to schedule an eye exam to check the fit of the lenses.

5 Benefits of Using Multifocal Lenses

As you age, the system that allows you to focus near and far vision naturally loses quality. Although the use of multifocal or progressive lenses does not prevent this from happening, it can help control it and relieve presbyopia. Its use is recommended to enjoy the following benefits:

#1 They Avoid Sudden Image Changes

Although progressive lenses integrate different optical zones in the same lens, the transition between one and the other is smooth and gradual. There is no visible line on the lens that can interrupt or distort vision.

This makes the wearing experience more comfortable and natural, as your eyes can progressively adjust their focus as you look at different distances.

#2 They Do Not Cause Adaptation Problems

The technology of these lenses emulates the natural focus of the eye so that you do not feel dizziness or discomfort when using them for the first time, at least not after you exceed the natural adaptation time.

Likewise, getting used to seeing through the different graduations is not too difficult; you will just need to be consistent when using them.

#3 They Correct your Vision at Different Distances

The multifocal design can simultaneously cover both distance and near focus. Its use allows you to improve your vision at any distance and perform any task without having to change from one type of lens to another.

#4 They help Aesthetically

They can be integrated into any frame you prefer, so they usually have an elegant and modern design that adapts to any lifestyle and fashion.

#5 They improve your Quality of Life

By allowing complete vision correction, progressive lenses improve your visual quality, impacting many activities of daily living: better performance, better understanding, better ability to perform tasks, and more.

Can you Find Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Yes, there are multifocal contact lenses, which work similarly to conventional progressive lenses. These have different optical zones in the same lens to allow complete correction of near and distant vision.

Multifocal contact lenses are an attractive option if you prefer not to wear glasses and want to enjoy the comfort and freedom that contact lenses offer. However, you should keep in mind that they may require an adaptation period to get used to the gradual graduation of the different optical zones.

Additionally, you can speak with Salisbury Optometrist to determine if these contact lenses are the best option for your specific case, as they are not suitable for everyone.

What is the Price Range of Progressive Lenses?

The price of progressive lenses is not unique in the market and can vary for various reasons, mainly due to the formula required to correct each user’s vision. As the prescription increases, so does the price, as extra-thin materials are needed that reduce lens thickness to improve quality, appearance and comfort.

In addition, the price of multifocal lenses can also vary depending on the brand that manufactures them since each one uses different materials and technologies in the manufacture of its lenses. Therefore, it is important to compare prices and features of different brands before you make a purchasing decision.

Recommendations for Beginners

Train Your Eyes While Reading

It is advisable to change your reading position and hold the material at least 16 inches away from your eyes. You can also train your eyes not to move significantly with your head while reading and move the reading material instead of your head to see clearly.

Learn to Look Down

When walking with your new bifocals, it’s best to avoid looking down so you don’t see your feet blurry. If you need to, tilt your head down and focus your gaze on the top of your glasses.

At Salisbury Optometrist, We Help you Improve your Vision

At Salisbury Optometrist, you can find the best multifocal contact lenses or framed multifocal lenses in any design, size, or brand. Our luxury catalogue has them all. You can purchase them or schedule an appointment with our specialists.