Blog Hero

Bifocal vs Progressive Lenses

Book Appointment

For individuals that need vision correction both near and far, progressive or bifocal lenses are a must-have! As your eyes age and your vision changes, age-related farsightedness or presbyopia may start to affect your vision.

What are Bifocal or Progressive Lenses?

Progressive and bifocal lenses transition from near to far distance prescription within one lens! For that reason, these lenses provide you a single lens to fit all your prescription needs. 

Progressive vs Bifocal Lenses

Both progressive and bifocal lenses are used as a vision solution for presbyopia and provide comfortable vision for individuals with multiple prescriptions. Progressive lenses seamlessly transition between near and far prescriptions within the lens. In contrast, a distinct line separates near and far vision in bifocal lenses. Consider your lifestyle and your personal preference when choosing which type of lens is the best fit.

Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses provide a clear distinction between near and far vision prescription within the lens. While many people may immediately choose a progressive lens, a bifocal may be a better fit for your lifestyle and vision needs. Some individuals find the strong distinction between Rx’s of a bifocal lens more comfortable for their vision. 

  • Two vision zones (one for near vision and one for distance)
  • Has a distinct line separating the powers
  • May cause difficulty reading computer screen and cause a greater risk for computer vision syndrome

Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses provide a transition from near, intermediate, and far vision prescription. As compared to bifocal lenses, progressives provide a wider zone of clear vision to make activities like computer use and reading easier for the wearer. Early progressive lens designs had a soft blur during movement. However, with technological advancements, today’s progressive lenses have reduced this blur to provide better vision for active wearers.

  • Seamless progression between all distances of vision (near, intermediate, and far)
  • No distinction between different powers within the lens
  • Most popular lens for anyone with presbyopia who wears eyeglasses
  • Expanded intermediate zone for better computer vision

We understand the need for comfortable eyewear adequate for your lifestyle. Unsure about if you would benefit from bifocal or progressive lenses more, ask us! We are here to determine what eyewear fits your lifestyle. Progressive and bifocal lenses could be the solution you have been searching for! Contact our office today!

Categories

Written by Dr. Erica Durlacher

Dr. Erica Durlacher is a Louisiana native graduating in 2008 from Runnels High School. In 2012 She received her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Southeastern Louisiana University. Dr. Durlacher then went on to pursue her Doctor of Optometry degree at Southern College of Optometry. She graduated in 2016. Dr. Durlacher has clinical experience in primary eye care, ocular disease management and treatment, contact lenses, pediatrics, and post-operative care and management. She enjoys all aspects of eye care, and strives to provide exceptional care for her patients. She has a special interest in specialty contact lenses such as Scleral lenses and Ortho-K lenses. Dr. Durlacher is a member of the American Optometric Association and the Optometry Association of Louisiana, and is an Infant See Provider.

More Articles By Dr. Erica Durlacher
instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax