Differences Between Bifocals & Progressive Lenses

A vast majority of individuals over 65 years of age will become familiar with a reduction in vision clarity.  One vision condition that is common with progressive age is presbyopia.  Presbyopia is basically when the elasticity around the lens of the eye loosens.  Plaza Vision Optometry helps patients with presbyopia with solutions such as bifocals and progressive lenses.  Let’s compare the differences between the two.

Bifocals: Pros And Cons

The design of bifocals addresses the need to correct nearsightedness and farsightedness.  As presbyopia gets worse, even mid distances can begin to become blurry.  Before we prescribe bifocals, we perform an eye exam so as to determine to right lens strength.

Pros: Bifocals are relatively inexpensive and are easy to get.  We can prescribe glasses with the exact correction required for you the same day.

Cons: The main drawback of the bifocals (and even trifocals) is the distracting lines between the strength of the lenses.  Some wearers have complained of headaches when using bifocals for lengthy time periods.

Progressive Lenses

A more modern optometric technology is the progressive lens. Progressive lenses are able to accomplish what bifocals do without the harsh lines of demarcation.  The top of the lenses allows one to see further distances while the lower parts enable closer sight.

Pros: These lenses are much easier on normal eye function.

Cons: It may take more time to get acclimated to progressive lenses, especially if it’s your first time wearing them.

Whether you prefer bifocals or progressive lenses, Plaza Optometry is available to help.  Give us a call or stop in at our office to set up an appointment.  Dr. Alysa Watanabe has over 10 years of experience in the industry.  She enjoys helping patients of all ages and backgrounds.

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