{"id":5463,"date":"2020-06-01T09:33:11","date_gmt":"2020-06-01T09:33:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/wordpress\/?page_id=5463"},"modified":"2021-08-02T08:50:31","modified_gmt":"2021-08-02T08:50:31","slug":"optical-lenses","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.optometrists.org\/general-practice-optometry\/optical\/guide-to-optical-lenses\/optical-lenses\/","title":{"rendered":"Optical Lenses"},"content":{"rendered":"

In recent years, the transition from glass to plastic lenses has revolutionized the way we see.<\/h2>\n

In the past, eyeglass lenses were made of glass. However, in recent years, lenses have transitioned to a durable plastic, that is lighter in weight, and less prone to breaking\u2014 providing a more comfortable experience.<\/p>\n

What is the difference between a lens for farsightedness and a lens for nearsightedness?<\/b><\/h2>\n

If you are farsighted<\/a>, your lenses will be thicker in the center and thinner on the periphery. A farsighted prescription is written with a \u201cplus\u201d sign, such as +2.00 diopters (D).<\/p>\n

If you are nearsighted<\/a>, your lenses will be thinner at the center and thicker on the periphery. A nearsighted prescription is written with a \u201cminus\u201d sign, such as -2.00 diopters (D).<\/p>\n

Different types of lenses<\/b><\/h2>\n

Single vision lenses <\/b>are the most basic, and least expensive type of lenses. These lenses are designed for correcting vision for either near or distant clarity.<\/p>\n

Bifocal lenses <\/b><\/a>contain two optical powers to accommodate clear vision for both near and far. The lens is divided into two segments, the top of the lens contains the distance vision prescription, while the bottom of the lens contains the near vision prescription. Some bifocals contain a bisecting horizontal line between the two lens powers.<\/p>\n

Trifocal lenses<\/b> contain three optical powers\u2014 distance, intermediate and near vision, with two segmenting lines to delineate the powers. The intermediate segment is located above the segment for near vision and is helpful for viewing objects at arm\u2019s length, such as a computer, or car dashboard.<\/p>\n

Progressive lenses<\/b>, also called multifocal lenses<\/a> are similar to bifocals and trifocals, but contain multiple <\/i>lens powers to provide vision at all distances\u2014 close up, intermediate, distance, and any other lens power necessary for vision clarity. Multifocals gradually blend the lens powers together without a bisecting line, making them more attractive than bifocals. The downside of multifocals is that the clear zone for each part of the lens may be limited.<\/p>\n

Polycarbonate and trivex lenses <\/b>are impact-resistant, thin, and lightweight. These lenses are ideal for playing sports, as they are less prone to damage. They are also designed with built-in UV protection.<\/p>\n

High-index plastic lenses <\/b>are thinner, lighter, and more comfortable than regular lenses. These lenses are ideal for those with higher prescriptions, specifically those with strong farsightedness.<\/p>\n

Aspheric lenses<\/b> contain various degrees of curvature from the center of the lens to its periphery. A flatter curve allows for thinner and flatter lenses, and reduces eye magnification for farsighted prescriptions. Aspheric lenses may also improve the clarity of your peripheral vision.<\/p>\n

Computer lenses <\/b>filter out blue light\u2014 reducing eye strain, fatigue, and headaches\u2014 and protecting your overall ocular health. Computer glasses may be purchased without a prescription. If you already wear prescription glasses, your lenses can be treated with a blue light-blocking coating.<\/p>\n

Photochromic lenses<\/b> also known as transition lenses, are clear indoors and darken when exposed to sunlight. These lenses eliminate the need for sunglasses and are more convenient for those who wear glasses full time to protect their eyes from UV radiation. Photochromic lenses are technically a treatment that can be added to your prescription lenses of any type.<\/p>\n

Polarized sunglasses<\/b> reduce glare from surfaces such as water and snow.\u00a0 They are an ideal choice for driving and playing sports.<\/p>\n

Schedule an eye exam<\/strong><\/a> with an eye doctor to find out which lenses you need for clear and comfortable vision.<\/p>\n

SEE RELATED: <\/strong>Optical Lenses for Children<\/a><\/p>\n\n\t

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