Progressive Lenses | A Complete Guide by Optic Precise Optical. 

Progressive lenses or Multi-focal lenses offer an effective and great looking vision solution for individuals with presbyopia (age-related near vision loss). As we age, particularly after the age of 40, our near vision begins to deteriorate. Progressive lenses allow you to see at all distances with one pair of glasses. The viewing transition starts from from the top part of the lens (1) - Distance and transition to (2) - intermediate, and gradually change to (3) - Reading. You simply roll the eye ball position to focus through different areas of the lens. 

The main advantage of progressive lenses is that you do not require several pair of glasses for different distances. They don’t have a visible line, but rather a seamless and gradual change in power as you move down the lens. Progressive lenses offer a smooth transition of focal powers that covers the total range of clear vision from far to near and every point in between. The blurred area is designed in this way to facilitate the progression of the lens power more smoothly. 

Peripheral distortion is the blurriness you see at the edges of your progressive lenses. This happens because the lens combines different prescriptions for far, mid-range, and near vision into a single lens. This distortion can make objects look blurry or warped when you look to the side without turning your head. For some, a quick side-to-side head movement might even feel like a swaying sensation. The stronger your reading power, the more noticeable this distortion tends to be.

Today's technology has made a big difference. Better manufacturing and more precise measurements allow lens makers to minimize these distorted areas. This is why more advanced, higher-priced lenses offer a clearer, more comfortable experience compared to basic ones.

When recommending a progressive lens design, an eye care practitioner usually ask questions finding out more of customer’s lifestyle, which coupled with prescription restrictions, understanding of job requirement, frame selection, can establish the suitability of various models of the progressive lens.

Different lens material availabilities, minimum and maximum fitting heights, prescription ranges and as such the variation in quality between lower to higher end progressive lenses is considerable.

Progressive lenses must satisfy several visual requirements in order to deliver sufficient performance and overall utility: 1. Good critical vision 2. Good dynamic vision 3. Good binocular vision 4. Good ergonomic utility. Ultimately, it still boils down to the customer’s expectation and requirement. 

Bifocal lenses were once the standard solution for people who needed help with both near and far vision, but they had three main problems:

Progressive lenses were invented to solve these issues. They have no lines and provide a smooth, clear transition for all distances—near, far, and everything in between. This makes them a more modern and natural-feeling solution for today's world. While some people still use bifocals, progressives have become the top choice for their superior comfort and seamless vision. 

Progressive lenses require careful placement relative to the wearer's pupil centre for a distance-viewing reference position. Incorrect specification of the fitting location can cause problems for the wearer including (depending on the design of the lens) narrow fields of view, clear vision in one eye only, on-axis blur, and the need to alter the natural head position in order to see clearly.

Errors can be corrected through the application of different types of lenses. The eye is a complex system and there are many points throughout the journey of a ray of light through the eye, resulting in a, less than ideal, visual acuity.

Most of the optical principles described date back to centuries, and glasses are such a common solution that we often, scarcely notice them. What's not common are the technologies needed to make these lenses work ideally for individual wearer, and the skills required to select, fit and troubleshoot the eye wear people rely on everyday. As an optician, we play a key role in bringing these principles to life, in the form of a great visual experience for our patient.

The result: A new design with the opportunity and expectation to improve patient success, professional identity and the wearer's personal satisfaction. 

Learning to wear progressive lenses is a lot like learning to ride a bicycle. The key to success is balance and finding the right fit.

1. Choosing the Right "Bicycle" (Your Lens Design) 

Just as you need a bicycle that's the right height for you, you need a lens design that's suited to your specific needs. The optician helps you select the perfect lens, which is the foundational step for a smooth experience.

2. Learning to "Balance" (Adapting to Your Lenses) 

The initial adjustment period is similar to a child learning to balance on a bike. At first, you may have to "scoot" along, getting a feel for how the lenses work. Your optician will teach you to look straight ahead to see things far away, instead of looking down. This is crucial for avoiding a dizzy or swaying sensation, just as a cyclist must look forward and not at their feet.

3. "Gliding" with Confidence (Using Your Lenses Daily) 

As you become more comfortable, you'll naturally start "gliding" with your new lenses. You'll move seamlessly from looking at things in the distance to focusing on objects up close, just as a new rider learns to lift their feet and coast.

Ultimately, the most important factor is your willingness to learn and trust in your optician. With the right guidance and a bit of practice, even first-time wearers, including those who start later in life, can successfully adapt to progressive lenses and enjoy clear vision at all distances.

Choosing the right progressive lenses starts with a conversation with your optician. They'll ask about your daily habits and vision needs. This information, along with your prescription and budget, helps them recommend the best lens for you.

The quality of progressive lenses can vary significantly. Higher-end lenses often have fewer restrictions and a wider range of available materials, allowing for a more customized and comfortable fit. This is why you'll see a difference in price between various lens models.

It's important to remember that adapting to progressive lenses takes time. While some people adjust quickly, others may find it challenging. We believe everyone deserves clear vision and comfort.

At Optic Precise Optical, we're dedicated to helping you adapt to your new lenses. We'll provide a structured and effective guide to ensure you enjoy clear vision at all distances.