Single Vision Lenses

Single vision lenses have one single prescription across the whole of the lens and are suitable whether you need your glasses for distance, computer use or reading. If you need to wear glasses for both distance and near vision, you could wear separate pairs of single vision glasses for each task. An alternative option would be to consider the benefits of one of the types of multifocal lenses detailed below.

Bifocal Lenses

These multifocal lenses have two prescriptions; one for distance vision at the top and one for near vision at the bottom, with a visible dividing line on the lens. Bifocal lenses allow the same pair of glasses to be worn for seeing at both near and far distances. However, this lens type does not provide a correction for mid-distance vision; and, as the line dividing the lens is visible, bifocals are not considered cosmetically appealing.

Varifocal Lenses

These multifocal lenses combine three different prescriptions in one clear lens, allowing comfortable vision at all distances; near, intermediate and distance. Varifocal lenses can help you see better at all distances without needing separate pairs of glasses. Unlike bifocals, varifocals have no visible dividing line on the lens and a prescription area dedicated to intermediate vision i.e. for computer use. Even varifocal lenses however cannot offer 100% clear vision over the whole of the lens and there will be areas through which softer focus or distortion can be seen. You can select from several varifocal lens options and which you choose will determine the amount of soft-focus area you experience – the latest lens designs will enable you to minimize this effect and provide more natural vision.