Multifocal lenses

Multifocal lenses are contact lenses that combine multiple power zones in a single lens. They have been developed for people with presbyopia, the age-related condition in which the eye struggles to see clearly at close range, usually from around the age of 40 to 45. Instead of using reading glasses or two separate pairs of glasses, multifocal lenses allow the wearer to see both far away and close up with a single pair of lenses.

The lens contains different zones with different powers: one for distance vision, one for near vision (such as reading or looking at a mobile phone screen), and often an intermediate zone for medium distances such as a computer screen. Your eye and brain work together to learn which zone is needed at any given moment. Getting used to multifocal lenses can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, as your brain has to learn to select the correct zone.

There are various designs available. With a simultaneous design, all zones focus on the retina at the same time, and your brain selects the sharpest zone. With an alternating or translering lens (usually rigid lenses), the lens shifts slightly when you look down, so that the reading zone comes into front of the pupil. Multifocal lenses are available in soft and hard (rigid gas-permeable, RGP) varieties, and as daily, fortnightly, monthly and annual lenses.

Multifocal lenses are also known as varifocal or progressive lenses, by analogy with varifocal spectacle lenses. The term ‘bifocal lenses’ is sometimes used, although strictly speaking these have only two zones (distance and near), whereas modern multifocal lenses often offer three or more zones.

Who are multifocal lenses intended for?

Multifocal lenses are designed for people with presbyopia who prefer to wear contact lenses and do not want to switch between reading glasses and glasses for distance vision for every activity. They are suitable if you already wear contact lenses and find that your close-up vision is becoming less clear, or if you are considering contact lenses for the first time and require both a distance and a reading prescription.

Adaptation period and expectations

It may take a little while to get used to multifocal lenses. At first, you may notice that your vision is less sharp than with a single-vision lens or glasses, particularly in dim light or when looking at fine details. This is because your brain needs to learn to select the correct zone and ignore the others. Most wearers get used to them within one to two weeks; some take longer. Your optician or optometrist can help you find the right lens and design and guide you through the adjustment period.

Various designs and materials

Multifocal lenses come in many varieties: soft and hard lenses, and with different replacement schedules. Soft multifocal lenses are available as daily disposables, fortnightly lenses and monthly lenses. Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) multifocal lenses are often annual lenses and can offer sharper vision, but take longer to get used to. Which type is best for you depends on your eye test results, your lifestyle and your personal preference. At SMEYEL , you’ll find a wide range of contact lenses, including multifocal options in various materials and replacement schedules.

Maintenance and care

Multifocal lenses are cared for in the same way as other soft or hard lenses. Soft multifocal lenses should be cleaned using a lens solution suitable for soft lenses, such as an all-in-one solution or a peroxide system. Rigid multifocal lenses require a solution designed for rigid lenses. Always follow the instructions for use for your lenses and your solution, and replace your lenses according to the prescribed schedule.

When are multifocal lenses less suitable?

Multifocal lenses do not work equally well for everyone. If you have a very high reading or distance prescription, certain eye conditions, or a job that requires extremely sharp vision (such as fine craftsmanship or night flying), glasses or a combination of contact lenses and reading glasses may be a better option. Discuss your needs and expectations with your optician or optometrist; they can advise you on whether multifocal lenses are a good choice and which type suits you best.