While many people choose eyeglasses based on comfort and aesthetics, it’s also vital to choose the right lens type as it can affect the quality of your vision and impact your overall safety. Abernethy Owens is the Optometrist Rockingham, Woodvale, Floreat, Kardinya and Fremantle locals trust for high quality eye care including comprehensive eye examinations and professional Myopia control. Here we will provide some information on single vision lenses and multifocal lenses and the different conditions for which each type is suited.
Single Vision Lenses
Specifically designed to correct one field of vision (near or far), these are the most common and least expensive lens option. If you have myopia (short-sightedness) or hyperopia (long-sightedness) and you’re under the age of 40, single vision lenses will most likely be the ideal solution for you.
Bifocal and Trifocal Lenses
While single vision lenses have one prescription, bifocal and trifocal lenses have 2 or 3, and have a distinct line in the lens where the prescriptions vary. If you are over 40, or have difficulty focusing at different distances, you may need glasses that correct near and distance vision (and intermediate vision in the case of trifocals). Bifocals and trifocals are a versatile choice, allowing you to correct distance and near vision with one single pair of prescription glasses. While these lenses allow you to have just one pair of glasses, they can be a drawback for some people, as the lines can create sudden changes in vision when the eye is moved up or down.
Multifocal/Progressive Lenses
Offering similar fields of vision as bifocals or trifocals, however multifocal lenses allow you to see clearly at multiple distances without any distinct lines. These lenses correct vision for near, far and intermediate distances and the transitions between each zone is much smoother. By the age of 40, many people have difficulty focusing their eyes on nearby objects (presbyopia) and to compensate, many people wear single-vision eyeglasses for distance, and have a second pair for reading. Progressive lenses provide a simpler, more convenient solution to age-related vision problems, allowing you to see clearly at all distances, providing a gradual transition in strength from top to bottom.
How Much Will My Lenses Cost?
The cost of lenses can vary greatly, and will depend on many factors, including the lens design, the lens material, the use of coatings and tints, and the prescription. As a general rule, the more complex the lens design, the higher the cost. For example, progressive lenses typically cost more than bifocals, which in turn are more expensive than single vision lenses. Special features such as tints or anti-reflective coatings will add to the cost. Similarly, lenses to correct high or complex prescriptions may also increase the price.
The best way to understand which lenses are best suited to you, is to book a consultation with an experienced Optometrist near you. At Abernethy Owens, we strive to provide the highest quality eye care through leading edge technologies and comprehensive eye examinations. Whether you are looking for an affordable and effective Myopia treatment in Woodvale or a routine eye examination in Fremantle, we have five practices across Perth located in Floreat, Rockingham, Kardinya, Fremantle and Woodvale. Make an appointment with one of our expert Optometrists online now