Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses provide a unique, effective and convenient solution for those who require two different prescriptions for optimal, clear vision.

A bifocal lens is divided into two parts - the upper half is typically reserved for distance vision (for those with short sightedness), while a segment in the lower half is designated for near vision (for those with farsightedness). By incorporating two different prescriptions into one lens, bifocal lenses eliminate the need for multiple pairs of glasses. This can be especially convenient for individuals who frequently switch between tasks that require different levels of vision correction.

Presbyopia, a natural ageing process where the eye's lens loses its ability to focus on near objects, is a common reason why our clients are recommended bifocal lenses. Over the age of 40-45 years, natural changes to the visions mean that people may start to experience presbyopia, thereby requiring additional help to support their near vision. Bifocal lenses can provide an effective solution by incorporating a dedicated near vision segment within the lens, alongside any optical prescription they may already have in the upper portion of the lens.

Customisation is also available when it comes to bifocal lenses. For instance, if you work in an office, you may want bifocal reading glasses that incorporate both distance and near vision prescriptions. This allows wearers to have clear distance vision in the top portion of the lens for meetings or presentations, while the lower segment can provide clear near vision for looking at computer screens or documents.

In addition to the traditional bifocal lens, there are also progressive bifocal lenses available. These lenses offer a seamless transition between near and far vision, without the visible line typically found in traditional bifocal lenses. Regardless of the type of bifocal lens chosen, they offer a practical and effective solution for individuals who require two different prescriptions for clear vision.

Do I Need Bifocal Lenses?

If your eye exam with your optometrist reveals that you require two different optical prescriptions for different activities throughout your day, then bifocal lenses will be one of the options presented to you, alongside progressive lenses and having multiple pairs of single vision lens glasses, among other options. For many of our clients, bifocal lenses are much more preferred than having multiple pairs of single vision glasses that they must remember to carry with them at all times.

Recent advances in optical technology have also meant that bifocal lenses are now available in a range of thin options, giving you more versatility than previously available. Bifocal lenses are compatible with our wide range of lens coatings and other features, such as making them scratch resistant, adding a crystal clear coating, or a blue light filter.

To learn more about bifocal lenses or get your optical prescription from an optometrist, book your annual eye exam at our Victoria and South Australia clinics by selecting your preferred location here