Lenses for eyeglasses have variations. Apart from single-vision lenses, there are what’s called bifocal lenses, which have a visible line that separates the smaller lens from the larger one. If you don’t want to have that visible line for cosmetic purposes, however, you may want to wear glasses with progressive lenses.
What Are Progressive Lenses?
Progressive lenses offer all the benefits of bifocals and trifocals, but without the drawbacks. With bifocals, you have to shift your gaze to the second, smaller lens to look down at a nearby object. If you want to look at something far away, you can look through the top half of the glass. Most people also experience an “image jump” when they look up and down. This can be especially frustrating for people who glasses for the first time.
With progressive lenses, there are no visible lines on the lens. Instead, your vision flows seamlessly. Although you may still look up to see far away objects as with bifocals, progressive lenses have a middle or intermediate area that allows you to see objects in the middle distance. Many first-time wearers also find a much easier time adjusting to progressive lenses than they do to bifocal or trifocal lenses.
Do You Need Progressive Lenses?
If you need glasses to correct your vision, your eye doctor will determine the best eyewear for you. This may depend on your overall eye health and prescription. Many people who have farsightedness, nearsightedness, and other vision conditions may need several prescriptions for a clearer vision. If this is the case for you, progressive lenses are a great idea. They include three prescriptions, offering you a more flexible choice. Progressive lenses are also more suitable for children in need of vision correction.
Furthermore, adults nearing the age of 40 are also at a higher risk for presbyopia, an eye condition that means the lenses in your eyes cannot move as much as they did in the past. Most older adults who have presbyopia and astigmatism find it easier to treat their eye conditions with progressive lenses.
Here at Guilford Eye Center, we are more than happy to take care of your eye health. Whether you have perfect vision or wear corrective lenses, it’s best to schedule an eye exam once a year. Call us today at (336) 292-4516, or fill out our online contact form to book an appointment. We serve residents of Greensboro, NC, and the nearby communities in Guilford County.
