Are Multi-Focal Lenses Better For You?

Do you find yourself switching between glasses depending on your activity? Multi-focal lenses may be an ideal solution for you.

In this guide, I’ll cover what multi-focal lenses are, their uses and benefits, how they work, and if they might be the right option for your vision needs.

Multi Focal Lenses 

Multi-focal lenses enable clear vision at a range of distances. If you are tired of switching between reading glasses, driving glasses, or other activity-specific lenses, you may be interested in multi-focal lenses.

What Are Multi-Focal Lenses?

Multi focal lenses, also known as progressive lenses, have three distinct prescriptions in one lens. By incorporating several prescriptions into the lens, multifocal lenses accommodate a range of vision needs. 

With distinct sections devoted to seeing close up, at a distance, and in between, multi focal lenses are a great solution if you want one pair of glasses or contact lenses that work in almost any situation.

How Do Multi-Focal Lenses Work? 

Multi focal lenses work by incorporating several prescriptions into one lens. The power changes from the top to the bottom of the lens. 

The three separate portions of the lens correspond to seeing clearly at a different distance: Near, Intermediate, and Distance Vision. 

This means that one lens allows you to see clearly whether you are reading a menu, looking at a sign in the distance, driving, or just going about your daily tasks. 

Looking either up or down the lens will give you good vision at a particular distance, as shown below: 

• Distance Vision — The portion of the lens dedicated to seeing clearly at a distance is typically near the upper portion.  
• Intermediate Vision — The middle of a multi focal lens is dedicated to intermediate vision. This is ideal for tasks such as working, using a computer, and other intermediate vision activities. 
• Near Vision — Near vision usually features a soft focus toward the edges of the lens. Looking through the lower portion of the lens will allow you to see clearly for near vision tasks, such as reading.

What Is the Difference Between Multi Focal Lenses and Progressive Lenses?

You may have noticed that progressive lenses and multi focal lenses are used interchangeably in the vision world. While they both combine several prescriptions into one lens, there is a small yet distinct difference. In multi focal lenses, there is a subtle yet noticeable line between each of the three prescriptions. 

The different prescriptions in progressive lenses are separated by invisible lines. This modern appeal makes progressive lenses ideal for daily, long-term wear. 

Are Multi-Focal Lenses Better for You? 

Whether you are better suited for bifocals or multi focals will depend on your vision issues, your optometrist’s recommendations, and your personal preferences. 

Constantly switching prescription lenses every time you change activities can be tiring. If you are tired of switching lenses based on whether you are relaxing, driving, or reading, you may enjoy the convenience of multi focal lenses.  

During a comprehensive eye exam and consultation, we can determine your unique measurements, pinpoint how to maximise your vision, and discuss your vision goals and preferences. We can then tailor a vision solution that positions the lens zones in the ideal location for your needs and preferences. 

Optometrists in Shelley helping a local customer

Tips for Adjusting to Progressive Lenses

When wearing your progressive lenses or multi focals, keep these tips in mind to help adjust: 

• Wear your multi focals daily and consistently to make sure you adapt to how they work 
• Be cautious when using stairs and be sure to look through the top portion of the glasses for the clearest view
• When working at a laptop or computer, it can be helpful to lower the monitor height a bit lower than eye level. This will make it easier to position your head and eyes to look through the lower portion of your lens that is intended for near vision tasks. 
• Be patient with yourself — it is normal to take a few weeks to adapt to multi focals. I always tell new multi focal wearers to give themselves a period of grace as they adjust to how the lenses work. This is especially true if you are trying multi focals for your first time..
• If concerns or issues arise, don’t hesitate to contact our team! We’ll make sure to help you through the process and ensure your multi focal lenses are functioning as they should. 

How Are Bifocal and Multi-Focal Lenses Different? 

As opposed to bifocals that only offer two distances with clear vision, multi focals offer clear vision at the majority of distances. 

Bifocals also have a noticeable line on the lines whereas multi focals feature a smoother surface.

What Are the Benefits of Multi-Focal Lenses

Benefits of multi focal or progressive lenses include: 

• Convenience — Progressive lenses enable clear vision across a range of distances, eliminating the need to switch between glasses depending on the activity. 
• Vision Improvements — Multi focals offer an effective solution for a variety of vision issues. They provide a natural visual experience compared to reading glasses or bifocals and are ideal for a range of distances. 
• Aesthetic Appeal — Progressive lenses eliminate the visible lines in between prescriptions, creating a stylish, modern design. The absence of visible lines creates a seamless style that is comfortable for extended wear or just about any occasion. 

Can You Get Multi Focal Contact Lenses?

There are many styles and prescriptions available for multi focal lenses. At The Eye E Place, we tailor your prescription based on comprehensive eye testing and your preferences and vision goals. 

Whether you are interested in contact lenses or glasses, our professional eye examination will determine the right option for you. We’ll discuss your lifestyle, visual requirements, preferences, and your vision goals. 

Together, we’ll determine a progressive lens solution that lets you go about your daily tasks comfortably and confidently. 

Interested in Finding Out If Multi Focal Lenses Are Right for You? 

Multi focal lenses feature three different prescriptions that allow for clear vision at near, intermediate, and far distances. Whether you are shopping, driving, reading, or working, multi focals can accommodate most of your vision needs. 

If you are interested in finding out if multi focal lenses are right for you, we would be glad to assist you.  

Book your Perth Eye Test and professional eye examination today and our team will determine the ideal vision solution for your needs, budget, vision issues, and preferences.