Whether you currently wear single-vision glasses, bifocal (with the line) lenses, or do not need prescription glasses at all, you will notice a lot of differences once you make the change to multifocal eyeglasses. Multifocal glasses, particularly Progressives allow you to see clearly for both distance vision and near vision through the same lens. With the transition into multifocal glasses, your options of what to buy will change slightly. You will realize that your choices of frame-types differ than what you could get with regular single-vision lenses. Your prescription details will suddenly appear longer and more complex. Additionally, there is certainly a progression in order for your eyes to become accustomed to the shift, and it could be difficult at first. As to not stress you out due to all of these changes, enjoy this helpful guide to help better you better adapt to the adjustments.
When searching for a new pair of eyeglasses frames, you’ll want to be sure it’s possible to fit your multifocal lenses inside. While there are several option of thin and petite frames, usually they’re simply not conducive to multifocal lenses because there isn’t enough room for both vision needs. When buying glasses online, most optical websites will let you know if its possible to produce such a lens within your chosen frame, or not. Concurrently, when you buy glasses with your doctor, he should also be able to let you know what you need in regards to frame choice.
While they are typically referred to as “no line bifocals”, progressive glasses are different than bifocals. Bifocal eyeglasses have a line that separates the distance and near vision parts, or a visible window within the lens that allows you to read from. However, progressive lenses use optical technology to allow both vision corrections within only one lens; furthermore, as a gradual change in lens power goes throughout the lens, these can truly be called multifocal since you are not limited to two visions (distance and near). Because of this difference, adjusting to Progressives can be a bit more work than it was to originally adjust to bifocals. The main thing to note when using progressive lenses for the first time is that you must be ready for the transition; it could take up to ten days to truly adjust your eyes and optical memory. Just be sure that you do not get into the habit of tilting your head when looking down. Move just your eyes and focus on one word on a page, within the reading section of your lenses. One quick tip to help you adapt to the transition is to then move your page up and down, and side to side. Always keep your focus on your chosen word; this will help educate your optical memory. The faster your eyes acclimate to the foci, the less likely you will suffer from headaches.
Don’t be intimidated by the transition from single vision – or no prescription eye glasses at all – to multifocal lenses. Even if you’re currently wearing bifocal glasses there will be a bit of an adjustment period. However, hopefully with the tips above you will be able to get through the transition-time quickly, and easily!
Hillary Glaser is the Director of Marketing and Special Projects for eyeglassespro.com – the easiest way to buy glasses online. She over sees day-to-day operations for all marketing and promotions of eyeglasses for the company.