Multifocal & Progressive Contact Lenses

If you’re searching for information about multifocal contact lenses, you may have been diagnosed with nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia[RJ1] ). Nearsightedness and farsightedness are refractive errors, which means the light doesn’t focus correctly in the eye. Nearsightedness often appears in childhood and is strongly linked to genetics. Farsightedness is often associated with age-related vision decline, also known as presbyopia.

Thankfully, there are several contact lens options available for people with refractive errors. Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses are designed to help you see clearly at all distances, so you can go about your day without having to carry around different eyeglasses. Learn more about how multifocal, bifocal, and progressive contact lenses work below.

Multifocal Contacts vs. Bifocal Contacts: What’s the Difference?

If you’re considering wearing contact lenses for the first time, you may be wondering about the difference between bifocal and multifocal contact lenses. Put simply, bifocal contact lenses have two prescriptions in the same lens, one for distance viewing and another for near viewing. Multifocal contact lenses have a wider range, for seeing near, far, and intermediately. 

Because they include more than one prescription, bifocal contact lenses are considered a type of multifocal lens. Bifocals have two zones, while multifocal have three. The vision experience with bifocals can feel like switching between two pairs of glasses, while multifocals provide a smoother, more gradual transition. Many people like bifocals for things like reading, while multifocals are often ideal for activities that require a varied focus, like driving. 

Both types of contact lenses are available in soft and rigid gas-permeable materials. You can also purchase either on a disposable basis, for daily or monthly use. Your eye care professional can go over your options and help you find the best fit.

Types of Bifocal and Multifocal Contact Lenses

 Contact lenses have come a long way since the first bifocal contacts went mainstream in the late 1980s. Today, bifocal and multifocal contact lenses fall under a few basic designs.

Simultaneous Vision Lenses

Simultaneous vision lenses have different zones for far, near, and intermediate vision. They stay centered on the eye and don’t move with eye movements. While this may seem difficult to adjust to, eventually your eyes learn which part of the lens to focus on. This type of contact has two designs:

• Concentric multifocal contact lenses: Have a series of alternating concentric rings with different powers for near, intermediate, and distance vision. The center of the lens is dedicated to one focal point (either near or distance), and the surrounding rings alternate between near and distance corrections.
• Aspheric multifocal contact lenses: Have a more gradual change from the center of the lens to the outside. The center of the lens provides near vision correction, while the peripheral areas gradually transition to intermediate and distance vision correction.

Simultaneous vision lenses work best for patients who need correction for both near and far vision and are comfortable with the adaptation period that’s required.

Segmented Lenses

Segmented multifocal contact lenses are made of rigid gas-permeable material and are designed similarly to bifocal lenses: The top part of the lens is for distance vision and the bottom is designated for near vision. 

 They move with your eye: When you look up you’ll be able to clearly see distant objects, and when you look down you’ll have clearer vision for reading. They’re ideal if you need vision correction at two different distances and prefer a clear separation between near and far vision areas.

Progressive Contact Lenses

Traditionally, bifocal and multifocal contact lenses have visible lines that separate the different prescriptions. Progressive contact lenses are an updated design without any visible lines. 

They provide a smooth gradient from the center outward and remain stable on the eye, so there’s a natural transition between different focal points. Using progressive contact lenses can feel more natural than traditional bifocals or multifocal lenses, making them a popular choice for nearly any patient.

Bifocal Contacts for Astigmatism

In the past, people who wore contacts for astigmatism had to switch to eyeglasses if they needed bifocals. However, there are now bifocal contacts for astigmatism, called toric multifocal lenses. These lenses have different powers for near and distance vision, as well as specific areas to correct astigmatism. They are designed to stay in place on the eye. If you need multifocal correction and have astigmatism, ask your eye care professional about this type of multifocal contact lens.

Pros and Cons of Multifocal Contact Lenses

The biggest benefits of wearing multifocal contact lenses are: 

• They can correct near, intermediate, and distance vision in one lens, so you don’t need to carry around multiple pairs of glasses. 
• Many designs provide a convenient and seamless transition between different focal points. 

Some drawbacks of wearing multifocal contact lenses include: 

• The adjustment period as your brain learns to select the appropriate focal point, which can cause blurry vision or discomfort. 
• Multifocal lenses can be more expensive than single-vision lenses. 

Still, many people find the benefits of improved vision and convenience outweigh the disadvantages.

How to Get Multifocal Contact Lenses

If you have problems seeing multiple distances, multifocal contact lenses could be a great solution. Start with a visit to your eye doctor, where the process will look something like this: 

1. Eye exam: A comprehensive eye exam will assess your overall eye health, determine your visual ability, and measure your eyes’ focusing ability at different distances. From there, you can discuss your options with your doctor.
2. Contact lens fitting: If multifocal contact lenses fit your needs, your doctor will perform a contact lens fitting, which involves measuring the curvature and size of your eyes. You’ll also choose the type of lens (concentric, aspheric, segmented, or progressive contact lenses).
3. Trial period: You’ll get trial lenses to wear for a few days or weeks so you can adjust to the lenses and see how they work for you. From there, your doctor can make adjustments to your lens type or prescription.
4. Getting and filling your prescription: Once you’re satisfied with the fit and performance of your multifocal contact lenses, the doctor will write your prescription. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for proper lens care and wear.

Ready to Try Multifocal Contact Lenses?

As your eyes begin to age, it’s normal to experience a decline in your vision. Signs such as blurry vision or difficulty focusing on reading material without squinting can indicate it’s time for multifocal, progressive, or bifocal contact lenses. 

If you’re having trouble seeing at certain distances, make an appointment at your neighborhood Pearle Vision today to have your eyes examined and determine whether you could benefit from multifocal contact lenses.

Multifocal Contact Lenses FAQ

How do multifocal contact lenses work?

Multifocal contact lenses have multiple zones with different prescriptions, allowing you to see clearly at near, far, and intermediate distances.

What's the difference between multifocal and bifocal contact lenses?

Multifocal lenses provide a more gradual transition between distances compared to traditional bifocal contact lenses, offering a more natural visual experience.

I have astigmatism. Can I wear multifocal contacts?

Yes! Bifocal contacts for astigmatism are called toric multifocal lenses. They’re designed to correct both astigmatism and the blurry vision caused by age-related vision decline.

Is there an adjustment period for multifocal lenses?

Yes, your brain may need some time to adapt to the different zones in multifocal contact lenses; this adjustment period is typically short.

How do I find the best multifocal contact lenses for me?

An eye doctor can help you determine the right type of multifocal lens (and prescription) for your specific vision needs and lifestyle.