Multifocal Contact Lenses

Many patients think that once they need a bifocal in their glasses, they can no longer use their contact lenses. But more and more technology is being introduced into contact lenses to give better vision to a wider variety of prescriptions. This includes prescriptions with high astigmatism or bifocals. So, if you notice focusing up close has started to become a challenge, with newer multifocal contact lenses, you don't necessarily have to pick up those cheaters or ditch the contacts entirely. At Eyes on Dover, in Westlake, OH we offer a wide variety of contact lens options to meet your visual needs.

What Are Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses correct for presbyopia, which is a condition that occurs as you age and makes focusing at near more difficult. These specialized contact lenses have both your distance and your reading prescription built into them so that you are able to see all distances without the need to put on cheaters on top of the contacts.

How Do Multifocal Contact Lenses Work?

There are many different types of multifocal contact lenses, and each brand uses a different design in order to provide distance, intermediate, and near vision. A significant amount of technology goes into the development of these lenses. When it comes to soft contact lenses, they are made with concentric rings of varying prescription powers that correspond to your distance, intermediate, and near prescription. Your gaze, pupil size, and eye dominance all factor into how your brain is able to use the lenses to see at all distances. Our eye doctor at Eyes on Dover takes all of these things into consdieration and helps you pick a contact lens option that will be most successful based on your individual findings and needs!

Types of Multifocal Contact Lens Prescriptions 

With newer technology, multifocal contact lenses are able to address a variety of refractive conditions. These include:

• Presbyopia: This describes the loss of near vision as you age. It usually starts around age 40 and gradually worsens over 20-25 years. It can make focusing on near objects, like the computer, phone, or a book, challenging.

• Myopia: Also known as nearsightedness, meaning that objects at a distance are unclear.

• Hyperopia: Also known as farsightedness. Individuals with hyperopia may notice near vision changes a little earlier than others.

• Astigmatism: This refers to the curvature of the front part of the eyes. As technology advances, more contact lens companies are making multifocal contacts that correct for astigmatism. So if you've had low success in the past because of your astigmatism, ask about new lenses that are available at your next eye exam!

​​​​​Why Choose Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Choosing multifocal contact lenses is a personal choice and often comes down to their ability to provide clear, comfortable vision at all distances and convenience. Many patients find that that they do not like having to put cheaters on over their contacts in order to see up close. They also alleviate the need for multiple pairs of glasses, and provide ease of transition when focusing from distance to near. This can help reduce eye strain and offers seamless vision throughout the day.

If multifocal contact lenses sound like they may be beneficial to you, schedule an appointment with our eye doctor here in Westlake! Whether you've had difficulties with multifocal contacts in the past, or you've never worn contacts before, our optometrist can help you find a lens that will fit your visual demands and recommend the best contact lens solution for your individual needs.

You can call or text us at 440-256-6894, or submit an appointment request for a comprehensive eye exam and contact lens fitting right here on our website. We can't wait to meet you and help you see your best!