What Are Progressive Lenses?

Progressive lenses are a type of eyeglass lens that gives you clear vision at all distances. Also known as “no-line bifocals”, progressive lenses are perfect for those who need both near and distant vision correction. Unlike traditional bifocal or trifocal lenses, which have two or three visible lines on the glasses, progressive lenses offer smooth transitions between viewing areas. This means you can look up to see far away, down for close-up work and straight ahead for mid-range viewing without having to tilt your head or lift your glasses. What’s more, these lenses do not distort your peripheral vision like traditional bifocal lenses do. All in all, progressive lenses provide a more comfortable and natural experience than other types of eyeglass lenses.

How Do Progressive Lenses Work?

Unlike regular eyeglasses, they don’t require you to switch between different pairs for near and far vision tasks. Instead, progressive lenses have zones that gradually increase in power from the top to the bottom of the lens. The top part of the lens is for viewing objects at a distance, while the lower part is for reading. In addition to this, they have a middle zone meant for intermediate vision, such as seeing a computer screen. For all of these reasons, they have become increasingly popular over regular bifocal or trifocal lenses!

Progressives vs. Single-Vision Lenses

Unlike single-vision lenses, which can be used to correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism but only provide correction for one distance at a time, progressive lenses provide multiple vision corrections in one lens. This means they offer multiple prescription strengths within one lens while also simultaneously providing a seamless transition from distance to near vision. With their multi-focal ability, progressive lenses offer a comfortable and natural way of seeing the world.

Progressives vs. Bifocals and Trifocals

Progressives, bifocals and trifocals, are all multifocal lenses that correct vision. That being said, there is a distinct difference between them (see also, progressive lenses vs. bifocals). While the latter two types divide their viewing zones with visible lines, and don’t have a seamless progression between powers, progressives do. This allows you to move your eyes naturally up and down the lens without having to switch between different viewing areas.

Who Should Wear Progressives?

Progressive lenses are the ideal solution for those who need multifocal correction for presbyopia, as well as those needing vision correction for both near and far distances. Ultimately, progressive lenses can provide better vision and comfort for people who need corrective eyewear. If you’re considering progressive eyeglasses, try out a pair to see if they’re right for you.

Custom Progressive Glasses at Murata Eyecare

Are you tired of having to find “just the right spot” to see when wearing your glasses? Do you often feel off balance when your glasses are on? Progressive glasses are custom fit medical devices that restore clear near vision and provide excellent vision at all distances.  And, because there are no visible “bifocal lines” they also give you a more youthful appearance. If you would like to book an eye exam or have more questions about our progressive lenses, contact our office at (805) 522-7007.