Do you find yourself either struggling to see distant objects or squinting to read the small text on your computer screen? Progressive lenses could be the answer to your vision woes. Read on to learn about these innovative new technologies and how they can help you see better during every part of your daily routine.

What Are Progressive Lenses?

Progressive glasses use multifocal lenses—also called Progressive Addition Lenses (PALs)—to allow wearers to modulate between several vision fields. A multifocal lens incorporates multiple prescriptions into a single, fluid design. Progressive glasses use your weakest “distance prescription” at the top, allowing you to easily focus on faraway objects. The bottom of the lens incorporates your full prescription to help you read tiny print without squinting. When you are using the computer or having a conversation, the central area of the lens offers a comfortable middle ground between the two prescriptions.

The Benefits Of Progressive Lenses

Unlike bifocal lenses, which differentiate between these fields with a visible line, the prescription areas on multifocal lenses blend together seamlessly. That’s why you will also sometimes hear multifocal lenses referred to as “no-line bifocals.” The prescription strength subtly and gradually increases as you move your eyes around the lens, eliminating eye strain and making everyday tasks like driving and reading much safer and more comfortable.

With multifocal lenses, you’ll be able to easily move between fields of vision, as if you aren’t wearing glasses at all! No more switching between your “regular” glasses for driving and your “reading” glasses for glancing through the newspaper. It’s three pairs of glasses for the price of one. And since there is no frustrating line between the vision fields, you won’t develop the headaches or neck pains that people with bifocals sometimes encounter. Many people are amazed at the difference that multifocal lenses can make, both in their vision quality and their comfort.

Choosing Your Progressive Lenses

There are two main types of progressive lenses:

  • Traditional progressive lenses: These lenses use older technology to add your prescription to the back of the lens. It is less expensive, but also less accurate and personalized as more modern options.
  • Digital progressive lenses: Using the latest lens surfacing technology, a digital lens can customize its prescription regions based on your wearing habits, preferences, and eye shape.

It may take a few days to adjust to your new multifocal lenses, but your eyes will soon learn to compensate for the different prescriptions and move fluidly between them. It is important to wear your progressive lenses as much as possible and not to alternate between them and your old glasses. Soon, you won’t even notice that you are wearing them!

Contact Us

If progressive lenses sound like the perfect solution to your vision issues, then contact our office at 818-891-6711 to learn more. In order to be fitted for your new lenses, you will first need a thorough eye exam to determine the correct range of prescriptions for you. Dr. Barry Leonard and his staff can make personalized recommendations and help you find the perfect fit!