Salvino D’Armate, the man who is most often credited as the inventor of eyeglasses, would hardly recognize
his creation today. Technology has changed not only the function of corrective lenses, but also the look. Today’s lenses are lighter, thinner more durable and more specialized with a
variety of upgrades and extras available . The downside is, there are so many types of lenses to choose from, it can be difficult to know if you’re getting the corrective lenses
that are best for you.
Types of Lenses
Progressive: Progressives are a type of multifocal lens, a lens that contains two or more prescriptions. Progressives are seamless with no tell-tale line indicating where the different lenses meet. Progressive’s increase edge-to-edge clarity without the need to take glasses on and off or peer over the top.
Bifocals: Bifocals are the most common type of multifocal corrective lens. They are two prescriptions made into one lens. The upper part of a bifocal is for seeing at a distance and the lower part is for near vision.
Trivex: Trivex is the ideal choice for impact-resistance lenses. It is a lightweight plastic made from polycarbonate. All types of safety glasses, sports glasses or eyewear for children are available in Trivex.
High Index Plastic: This lens type is created for people who need especially strong prescriptions. In the old days, a strong prescription required a thick or “coke bottle” lens, but high index plastic makes it possible to provide the same corrective value with a lighter, thinner lens.
Aspheric: Most lenses are spherical in shape, aspheric lenses are thinner and flatter than typical lenses. This allows for much larger portion of the lens to be utilized.
Photochromatic: These are also known as tinted glasses. Photochromatic lenses are available in both glass and plastic versions. They change from clear to tinted as the wearer moves from inside to the outside. Photochromatic lenses eliminate the need to order prescription glasses.
Polarized: Polarized glasses reduce glare and are especially useful for driving and playing sports.
Types of Lens Coatings
UV Protective: A specialized coating that protects the eyes from ultra-violet rays.
Scratch-Resistant: As it sounds, a scratch-resistant coating protects glasses from minor scuffs and scratches. This type of protection is especially useful for children and active wearers.
Anti-Reflective: An anti-reflective coating reduces halos and reflections. Less reflection creates a better overall appearance for the wearer.
Mirror: Mirror coating is purely a style choice, it allows the eyes to be hidden behind a mirror-like finish. Coatings come in a variety of colors including traditional silver, blue and gold.
At Maple Ridge Eye Care we understand the choices can be overwhelming. Your specific vision problem may limit the types of lenses you can choose from. We are here to help guide you through the process of choosing the right corrective lenses, from beginning to end.