Progressive Lenses
You might be thinking of progressive lenses as bifocals. You know, those glasses your parents had with the lenses that looked like little magnifying glasses in the bottom?
Well, first of all, even bifocals have come a long way since these primitive versions, and often don’t have the awkward and abrupt lines between the viewing areas. Progressive lenses are sometimes referred to as no-line bifocals – but really they are much more than that. That said, progressive lenses are so much more advanced and effective than even the best bifocals. Progressive lenses are not the same as bifocals.
Basically, what progressive lenses do is provide appropriate fields of visions at multiple levels. Where traditional bifocals provided the wearer with the ability to read while still providing correction for nearsightedness, they didn’t help with the important in-between range. The in-between range is typically around 3-20 feet. Once you’ve tried the continuous field of vision that is provided by progressive lenses, you’ll never want to go back to traditional lenses.
Well, first of all, even bifocals have come a long way since these primitive versions, and often don’t have the awkward and abrupt lines between the viewing areas. Progressive lenses are sometimes referred to as no-line bifocals – but really they are much more than that. That said, progressive lenses are so much more advanced and effective than even the best bifocals. Progressive lenses are not the same as bifocals.
Basically, what progressive lenses do is provide appropriate fields of visions at multiple levels. Where traditional bifocals provided the wearer with the ability to read while still providing correction for nearsightedness, they didn’t help with the important in-between range. The in-between range is typically around 3-20 feet. Once you’ve tried the continuous field of vision that is provided by progressive lenses, you’ll never want to go back to traditional lenses.
How to wear Progressive Lenses
Once you’ve gotten yourself some progressive lenses, you’ll be ready to open up a whole new world of vision. However, it’s not just as simple as popping the new glasses on and being fully adjusted. You’re going to have to think about it for a while and train yourself to use them. Once you do, though, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without them.
There are a few specific things you should do to get used to your progressive lenses. First of all, stick with them. They might take some getting used to, but you’re going to want to train your brain to focus with the new lenses. When you go back to your old glasses, it’s like resetting the clock, in a way, so just stick it out for a while.
Now this might sound like a no-brainer but you’re going to want to wear them properly. Have your glasses professionally fitted to your face to ensure that they’re lined up with your eyes the way that your eye care professional intended them for. Make sure this is done right, that the optical center is where it’s supposed to be, and keep them adjusted properly.
Once you’re wearing your progressive lenses properly, make sure that you’re moving your head when you want to turn to see something rather than moving your eyes. If you’ve got some peripheral issues with your new lenses, don’t worry, those should fade as you adapt. Above everything else, practice with your new glasses. Wear them in all situations and you’ll be adjusted to them a lot sooner.
Of course, like with anything else, adjusting to progressive lenses is different for everyone. Some people adjust fully in a few minutes, while others take a few days. Be patient and you should be ready to go in no time.
There are a few specific things you should do to get used to your progressive lenses. First of all, stick with them. They might take some getting used to, but you’re going to want to train your brain to focus with the new lenses. When you go back to your old glasses, it’s like resetting the clock, in a way, so just stick it out for a while.
Now this might sound like a no-brainer but you’re going to want to wear them properly. Have your glasses professionally fitted to your face to ensure that they’re lined up with your eyes the way that your eye care professional intended them for. Make sure this is done right, that the optical center is where it’s supposed to be, and keep them adjusted properly.
Once you’re wearing your progressive lenses properly, make sure that you’re moving your head when you want to turn to see something rather than moving your eyes. If you’ve got some peripheral issues with your new lenses, don’t worry, those should fade as you adapt. Above everything else, practice with your new glasses. Wear them in all situations and you’ll be adjusted to them a lot sooner.
Of course, like with anything else, adjusting to progressive lenses is different for everyone. Some people adjust fully in a few minutes, while others take a few days. Be patient and you should be ready to go in no time.
Questions about Progressive Lenses
You might have some concerns about progressive lenses, specifically about how you’re going to look.
Are you worried that your lenses are going to be much thicker and heavier than your current lenses?
Progressive lens technology is changing quickly, and there are a number of materials to consider when making your purchase that your eye care professional can help you with.
Can you use any frames you want or do you have to use special ones for these lenses?
Rest assured knowing that you can use any frames you want. Nobody will ever have to know.
Are Progressive Lenses right for you?
Progressive lenses have become the most common solution for people with presbyopia. They’re widely available and look almost the same as your regular lenses, but they’ll make a huge difference for your vision.
We invite you to call us for an appointment with one of our eye doctors to see if progressive lenses are right for you. The only way to know is to have a full eye exam. Give us a call today at Vision Institute and and make a change for the betterment of your sight!
If you are looking for more in-depth information about progressive lenses, here’s a great article about lenses from Varilux®
If you are looking for more in-depth information about progressive lenses, here’s a great article about lenses from Varilux®