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How Varifocal Lenses Work

The progressive lens process began in the late 1950s and early pairs of graduated lenses appeared on the market in the next few years. In the beginning stages, varifocal glasses did not always satisfy the wearer because of the difficulties defining and incorporating various magnifications. Today’s products are vastly improved due to computer modeling techniques that allow greater control over the magnification placement. In addition, the lenses contain higher quality materials of glass, polycarbonate or plastics that adapt readily to the manufacturing process.

The main difference between bifocal and varifocal or multifocal lenses can be visualized by thinking of a switch. A normal wall switch or single pole switch has an “ON” and “OFF” position – a bifocal is similar, “ON” for close work such as reading and “OFF” for distance. A varifocal lens, however, is similar to a rheostat or variable switch that changes light intensity by rotating the switch. Instead of a two way choice, the wearer has a selection of focusing options.

Varifocal lenses are effective because they use a progressive range of magnification that is custom designed based on an individual’s vision needs. As a person focuses on an object, their eyes move up and down as they focus and locate the proper magnification on the glasses. When an image becomes clear, the eyes stop at that point. New patients may feel distracted by the sensation of these different focal planes in the beginning, but after wearing the glasses for a short time the eyes become trained and automatically find the correct levels of adjustment.

What is Presyobia?

This medical term sounds serious and complicated but is actually an ordinary problem. Somewhere around the age of 45, many people develop a condition known as presbyopia. Also known as “elder eye”, this common problem involves difficulty focusing on near objects and is a natural result of the aging process. In some cases, eyestrain and headaches are also associated with presbyopia. The condition can occur in conjunction with other vision issues such as myopia. For people with both conditions, a varifocal or progressive type of corrective lens offers a good solution because they allow the wearer the ability to focus at varying distances.

Varifocal Contact Lenses

A popular solution to presbyopia and visual problems that include both distance and close vision loss can be found with varifocal contact lenses. Many people prefer wearing contact lens over glasses because they eliminate the visual distraction of a spectacle frame and also provide a natural appearance. Varifocal contact lenses involve a similar training and adjustment period as glasses but because of their intimate contact with the eye, some wearers adjust faster and find them easier to wear. Other people may prefer traditional framed glasses because of eye sensitivity and dryness of the eyes, astigmatism issues or upkeep concerns.

Benefits of Varifocal Glasses

Many people show surprise after learning that a pair of varifocal glasses is flattering and stylish. Because the glasses hide the magnification gradients, they look young and sophisticated on the wearer. Trendy or traditional frames in metal or plastic, colored, see-through or opaque, rimless glasses – a large selection of available styles fill the optometrist’s showrooms and optical product websites.

Having a single pair of spectacles that works day to night for any activity is far more convenient than toting several pairs. The same glasses worn to read the fine print on a brochure can be used to drive home from work, to attend the opera and to read the morning paper. Convenience and style combine to make varifocal glasses a favorite choice for correcting several vision problems.

What to Expect from Varifocal Glasses in the First Few Weeks

The learning curve to adjust to a new pair of varifocal glasses varies greatly between wearers depending on their tolerance levels, severity of the prescription, prior experience and many other factors. As the patient adjusts to the prescription, they learn to move their head slightly at different positions in order to clearly visualize the object. This process usually becomes second nature after a few weeks. Many people prefer varifocal lenses over bifocals or separate pairs of spectacles because they are always in place and can be used for both near, far and intermediate distances. Normally the power magnification changes from top to bottom but every pair of varifocal glasses is designed for an individual prescription and can be custom ordered according to the patient’s preferences.

In Summary

Aging is inevitable and although much research has been performed to correct vision problems, presbyopia cannot be instantly cured. However, wearing glasses or contact lenses is a minor inconvenience and normally restores vision quality to a near 20/20 range for most people. With the advanced technology incorporated into manufacturing varifocal glasses and lenses, the solution is simple. Choosing a pair of glasses or contact lenses that instantly corrects our visual needs allows us to continue an active and quality lifestyle for many years.

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