There are so many different types of contacts out there that I thought I would talk to you today about the multi focal contact lens. It does exist. Now multi focal lenses are not for everyone, but I just wanted to give you some information so that you are aware of what these lenses are and what they do. Multi focal lenses are the main term for all contact lenses with more than one power. So if you hear about a bi-focal lens then it is also a multifocal lens just there are two prescriptions in the same lens. These lenses are to help correct age- related vision problems where the eye can longer focus on objects up close. Multifocal lenses have a gradual transition between the prescription for reading up close and the prescription for distance. These lenses are similar to progressive eyeglasses. Bifocal lenses have a sharp edge between the near and far prescription area of the lens.
There are two different designs for multi-focal lenses:
1. Alternating vision- Your pupils alternate between the two powers, as your gaze shifts upward or downward. Alternating bifocal lenses work much like bifocal eyeglasses. The distance correction power is on the top and the near correction power is on the bottom. Your eyes look through one or the other depending on if you are looking in the distance or up close.
2.Simultaneous vision- Requires your eye to be looking through both distance and near powers at the same time.
Multifocal lenses are not for everyone. How do you know if they are a good fit for you? When you get your eye exam, your eye doctor will consider two things: your pupil size and your “add”, or near prescription. If you have any questions about if the multifocal contacts are the right fit for you, contact our Nashville or Hendersonville location and schedule and eye exam.