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If you rely on corrective eyewear, you’ve probably heard of bifocal or multifocal eyeglasses. The lenses of bifocal glasses contain two parts, each with different prescriptions, while multifocal glasses have multiple functionalities contained in each lens. Did you know that there are also bifocal and multifocal contact lenses? Recent advancements in contact lens technology have made these bifocal and multifocal lenses more popular and easier to use. Here’s what you should know about the benefits and drawbacks of switching to contact lenses. 

Advantages of Contact Lenscontact lenses

Contact lenses are generally more convenient than eyeglasses, but this is especially true of bifocals and multifocals. 

If your eye care professional has recommended bifocals or multifocals, it’s likely because you have presbyopia, a normal decline in near vision due to age. This decline means that without vision aids, you’ll have to hold reading material further away from your eyes. Glasses will correct the problem, but it’s annoying to have to carry them with you everywhere and don them every time you want to read a menu or send a text message. With contact lenses, you’ll be able to transition seamlessly from reading to other activities. It’s also much easier to exercise and maintain your health while wearing contacts. 

Other general advantages of contact lenses also apply to bifocals and multifocal lenses. Because they conform to the shape of your eye, contact lenses provide a wider field of vision. Your vision won’t be obscured by fog in cold weather. You also never have to worry about matching your clothes to your glasses. 

Downsides of Contact Lenses

The main drawback of bifocal or multifocal contact lenses is that seeing clearly with them takes practice. Using bifocal eyeglasses is intuitive: look down to read and look up to see farther away. Since contacts sit directly over the eyes, you’ll need to train your vision to adapt. Fortunately, experts now make contacts that stay in place even as your gaze shifts downward, and most people get accustomed after just a few weeks of wear.

Again, many of the disadvantages of bifocals and multifocals apply to contact lenses of all varieties. Some people prefer eyeglasses because they’re uncomfortable inserting contact lenses, though most adjust with practice. People with dry, sensitive eyes sometimes find contact lenses to be uncomfortable. Talk to your eye care professional about which option is best for you.

 

 

To learn more about bifocal and multifocal contact lenses, turn to Spencerport Optical. Serving families throughout Monroe County, NY, the eye care specialists at this practice have more than 32 years of optometry experience. Their friendly team makes patients of all ages feel comfortable, regardless of the reason for their visit. Whether you want to be fitted for contact lenses or are overdue for an eye exam, rely on them for quality care. To request an appointment, call (585) 352-1960 or visit the practice online

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