Contact lenses are an alternative to eyeglasses, and they are often used to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness. Specialty lenses address unique visual needs, such as Keratoconus or astigmatism. Collins Eye Center offers multifocal contacts to support clear vision at all distances, as they combine multiple prescriptions in a single lens. Here are some things to know about multifocal contact lenses:
Corrective Goals
Multifocal lenses are often recommended for individuals with presbyopia. Presbyopia is the gradual loss of the eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects, which often becomes noticeable in your 40s. The eye’s lens should be flexible and change shape depending on how far away the object you’re focusing on is. With presbyopia, the lens begins to harden, and your eye can no longer change shape to focus on close-up items.
Corrective lenses are designed to compensate for this cause of vision loss. Reading glasses are often suitable if you had uncorrected vision before developing the condition. For those who already have a vision prescription, contacts provide more targeted correction. Traditional lens options include:
- Bifocals: These lenses combine two prescriptions, often separated by a horizontal line. This allows you to focus on both near and far objects.
- Trifocals: These have three zones, with distinct corrections for near, middle, and far distances.
- Monovision: Monovision lenses separate prescriptions between eyes. One contact is designed for distance vision, while the other is for close-up work.
Instead of splitting your vision between eyes or within a single lens, multifocal contacts allow vision to shift naturally between focal distances. These contacts move with your eye as its natural lens changes shape. This reduces the need to switch between contacts and reading glasses throughout the day.
Design Variations
Design differences in multifocal contact lenses help address varying degrees of presbyopia, pupil size, and personal preferences. Annular contacts feature concentric rings that alternate between near and far correction. This allows the eye to pick the right magnification based on object distance and environmental conditions. Annular designs are suitable if you have advanced presbyopia and need strong near vision, and they are less affected by pupil size variations.
Aspheric contacts use a smooth transition between correction types, similar to progressive lenses. The lenses’ gradually changing curvature better mimics the eye’s natural lens, and this makes it easier to switch between focus points. Aspheric designs are helpful if you have an active lifestyle, because less time is often needed for the eyes to adjust to the new vision aid. They can also provide a wider field of vision with less peripheral distortion.
Candidacy Requirements
To determine if you are a good candidate for contacts, you must complete a contact lens exam with a certified eye doctor. This exam helps determine the proper fit for contact lenses; it measures the cornea’s curvature, pupil size, and tear film. Corneal curvature and pupil size determine the appropriate contact lens size and shape. Improperly fitted contacts may dislodge easily or cause discomfort. Your eyes should also produce an adequate tear film, as this keeps contacts moist and comfortable. An eye doctor will also evaluate your current eye health to determine if multifocal lenses are a good option. Certain conditions, such as astigmatism or macular degeneration, may be better addressed with alternative lenses or corrective procedures.
Get Multifocal Contact Lenses
Presbyopia is a natural part of aging, and it may result in blurry close-up vision, eye strain, and headaches. The condition is often addressed with prescription glasses or contact lenses after a comprehensive eye exam. Our team at Collins Eye Center can explain the available corrective options to suggest a solution that aligns with needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about multifocal contact lenses.
