Lens Styles
- Single Vision – Correction for one focal distance; close, intermediate (computer), far (distance), or correction for astigmatism.
- Progressive Lenses – One of the most functional types of lenses used to correct presbyopia and other disorders of accommodation. The top portion of the lens is designed for distance and the bifocal increases in power as you travel from the top of the lens to the bottom. This design allows for good vision at a wide variety of distances.
- Flat Top Bifocals – Designed so that the upper portion of the lens is for distance and the half moon is for normal reading distance (approx. 40cm.)
- Executive Bifocals – Also known as Ben Franklin Style Bifocals, these are good for those who need a wide field of vision for near work. These bifocals have a distinctive look and are usually thicker because of their design.
- Trifocal – Lenses designed with a top for distance and a half moon for reading distance. The intermediate ribbon allows one to see at an intermediate distance such as a computer monitor or groceries on a shelf.
- Specialty and Occupational – Lenses designed specifically for needs and lifestyle (e.g. sports eye wear or computer users).
Lens Materials
- Plastic – A standard thickness lens that is widely used.
- Hi-Index – This thinner and lighter lens is ideal for farsighted patients, who in the past had to wear thick, heavy lenses that magnified their eyes.
- Polycarbonate – Recommended for higher prescriptions typically 20% thinner and lighter than regular plastic lenses. Highly impact resistant and suggested for any hobby or career where eye protection is required.
- Glass – Recommended for those who easily scratch lenses. Glass lenses are scratch resistant and offer UV protection, but are heavier and more prone to breakage.
Len Options
- Photochromatic lenses – Lenses that automatically adjust their color to outdoor and indoor light conditions and provide scratch and UV protection.
- Anti-reflective coating – A coating used on the lens to decrease glare and reflections. Improves vision for both day and night and reduces eye fatigue.
- Polarized lenses – Used in sunglasses to reduce glare from reflective surfaces and are best at limiting sunlight glare and producing excellent outdoor contrast.
- Lens tinting – Available option that can be done to most lens materials in a variety of colors. Tinting can range from light tinting for indoor wear to dense tinting for outdoor use. This procedure helps reduce glare from light or can be used to enhance appearance.
- Mirror coating – Unlike anti-reflective coatings, which are very clear, mirror coatings (also called flash coatings) are bold statements of color that are highly reflective. Mirror coatings are purely a cosmetic option and come in just about any color.