What are Multifocal Lenses?
Multifocal lenses, also known as progressive lenses, are lenses that correct vision at different working distances. “Progressive” refers to the gradually increasing and decreasing focal capacity within the lens. Multifocal lenses, unlike bifocal lenses, have a gradual change in the prescription without separate segments and appear the same as single vision lenses. Multifocal lenses allow the user to see at various distances for example distance, intermediate and near are considered to be the most useful ‘general purpose lens' available today.
How Do Multifocal Lenses Work?
Multifocal lenses have a gradual change in focal power that graduates from the top of the lens to the bottom. With multiple prescription strengths built into the lens, multifocals create a smooth, seamless and gradual spectrum that allow the wearer to find the correct zone within the lens to focus on objects of varying distances. Most people adapt to multifocal lenses in a couple of days but for some, it can take a few weeks. Our Dispensing Opticians fully explain the benefits and any potential adaptation issues you may experience with multifocal lenses.
Who can benefit from Multifocal lenses?
Multifocal lenses are suitable for people who require multifocal correction. Historically, spectacle wearers would require multiple pairs of specs to individually resolve some of the aforementioned eye conditions whereas multifocal lenses have the benefit of addressing many of the issues within a single pair of glasses due to their multifocal capacity. Multifocal glasses are commonly used for multi-distance viewing across a range of real world instances that require close, intermediate or distance viewing, such as reading a book, watching television or driving. Office lenses are a form of multifocal lenses and are more attuned to the demands of close and intermediate vision requirements.
Uses for Multifocal Lenses:
- Near Vision: Reading, Knitting, Sewing
- Intermediate Vision: Watching television
- Far Vision: Driving
A personal consultation and eye examination is required to assess your suitability for multifocal lenses. For more information about our selection of multifocal lenses, what they can and can’t do for you and to book your personal eye examination, contact our London practice via ncs@rogerpope.co.uk or on 020 7935 2124.