Multifocal contact lenses: what you should know

As you get older, reading small print or focusing on close-up objects can become tricky. This common issue, known as presbyopia, often starts after age 40 when the eye’s lens becomes less flexible. Multifocal contact lenses offer a great solution, helping you see clearly at all distances, whether you’re reading a book, using a computer, or driving. These lenses are perfect for anyone who wants clear vision without juggling multiple pairs of glasses.

What are multifocal contact lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses are special lenses that combine different prescription strengths in one lens. The lenses are designed with different powers to correct refractive errors in multiple fields of vision. They help you see clearly up close, at medium distances, and far away. Designed for people with presbyopia, these lenses are a convenient alternative to reading glasses or bifocals. They come in various types, like daily, weekly, or monthly disposables, making them easy to fit into your lifestyle.

How do multifocal contact lenses work?

Multifocal contact lenses have different zones, each with a unique power to help you see at various distances. For example, one zone might help you read a menu, another lets you work on a laptop, and a third helps you see far-off signs while driving. Your eye naturally picks the right zone based on what you’re looking at. When you read, your pupil gets smaller, using the near-vision zone. When you look into the distance, your pupil widens, and the distance-vision zone kicks in. This seamless switch lets you see clearly without needing glasses.

Types of multifocal contact lenses

Multifocal lenses come in a few different designs, each working slightly differently:

Concentric Design: These lenses have rings of different powers, like a bullseye. The center might focus on near vision, with outer rings for distance vision, or vice versa.
Aspheric Design: These lenses gradually change power from the center to the edge, offering a smooth transition between near and far vision.
Segmented Design: Often made from rigid gas-permeable materials, these lenses have distinct sections for near and far vision. When you look down to read, the lens shifts slightly to use the near-vision zone.

Your eye doctor will help you pick the best design for your needs.

Who can benefit from multifocal contact lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses are a great option for people over 40 who are dealing with paresbyopia. These lenses help you see clearly at different distances, so you do not have to switch between reading glasses and regular glasses throughout the day. If you have trouble reading small print or often move between close-up and distance tasks, like teaching, driving, or working at a computer, multifocal lenses can make everyday life more comfortable. They are also a good choice for people with active lifestyles who do not want to carry glasses everywhere. Some types are even made for people with astigmatism, using a design called toric multifocal lenses, which offer both clarity and stability.

Adjusting to multifocal contacts

To try multifocal contact lenses, start with an eye exam. Your eye doctor will check your vision and fit you with the right lenses. They might try different designs or brands to find what works best. It can take a few weeks to get used to multifocal lenses, especially if you’re new to contacts. Start by wearing them for a few hours a day and gradually increase the time. Your doctor will guide you through the process to ensure comfort and clear vision.

Switching to multifocal lenses can take some getting used to. You might notice halos or glare around lights, especially at night, or slight blurriness in dim settings. These effects often fade as your eyes adjust. Starting with multifocal lenses early in your presbyopia journey can make the transition smoother. If you have ongoing issues, talk to your eye doctor. They may suggest a different lens type or brand to better suit your eyes.

Multifocal contact lenses vs. progressive glasses

Multifocal contact lenses have some big advantages over progressive glasses. They let you see clearly in all directions without the distortions sometimes found in progressive lenses. They’re also great for active lifestyles since you don’t need to carry glasses or worry about them slipping off. Plus, contacts give you a natural look without the visible lines of bifocal glasses. Progressive glasses might be easier to adapt to for some, but they require head movements to focus at different distances.

Caring for your multifocal contacts

Taking care of multifocal contact lenses is simple but important. Always wash your hands before touching your lenses. Use a recommended cleaning solution for reusable lenses and never reuse daily disposables. Follow your eye doctor’s advice on cleaning, storing, and replacing your lenses to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. Daily disposables are a great low-maintenance option because you can just toss them after each use.

Why choose Contacts Direct?

Multifocal contact lenses are produced by most of the largest manufacturers and so they are available in daily-, weekly-, and monthly-disposable options, making it easy to aorder contacts online. If you think you are starting to develop presbyopia and you believe multifocal contact lenses could be a good solution for you, discuss multifocal contacts and different power gradations with your OD at your next eye appointment. You can order contacts online with insurance from Contacts Direct and have them shipped to your door hassle free!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are multifocal contact lenses covered by insurance?

Most vision insurance plans cover multifocal lenses, but coverage varies. Check with your provider or learn how to use your vision insurance to see what’s included.