What Your Optometrist Wants You to Know About Bi Focal Lenses

No two peoples’ eyes are the same, which is why there are so many options on the market for correcting vision. Bifocals in eyeglasses have been improving vision since they were invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1784. They are still a popular choice today. If you are interested in getting bi focal lenses at Optics&EYECARE in Ashburn VA, here is what you need to know:

What Are Bifocals?

Bi focal eyeglasses have two prescriptions of lenses within them. Typically, the upper part of each lens has your prescription for distance vision. The lower part is designed for reading-distance activities.

Bifocals have several different designs. The magnified lens part may be:

• a straight half of the lens
• a lower crescent
• a small rounded or rectangular inset

These different options let you adjust how much visual space you have for distance versus up-close sight.

What Are the Benefits of Bi Focal Lenses?

Bi focal lenses are highly convenient and cost-effective. Instead of juggling multiple pairs of glasses for distance vision and up-close work, you only need to keep track of one pair. You also will not need to invest in several glasses and several cases.

You can get bifocals in a variety of styles. They may also be purchased with scratch-resistant and polarizing coatings. These technologies improve the glasses’ longevity and help you see better in bright conditions.

Who is Not a Good Candidate for Bifocals?

If your vision loss is new and unstable, your prescription may change rapidly. This means that you will outgrow your bifocals quickly and need to purchase new pairs. Your eye doctor may advise you to wait until your vision stabilizes.

There can also be an adjustment period when you first wear bi focal lenses. If you have a job that requires you to drive or operate heavy equipment every day, you may be better suited to keeping multiple pairs of single focal glasses.

What Other Options Are There?

If bi focal glasses are not right for you, ask your optometrist about bi focal contact lenses. You may be a good candidate for them. Other options include:

• investing in both reading and distance glasses
• contacts
• tri focal lenses
• progressive lenses
• eye surgery options such as LASIK

Talk to Your Eye Doctor About Bifocals

At Optics&EYECARE, Ashburn’s premier eye care center, we offer bi focal glasses and contacts as well as many other options for improving your vision. If you are interested in learning more, make an appointment today. You can contact us through our online form or call us at (703) 810-7784. We’re looking forward to hearing for you.