Bi-Focals FAQs

When you visit your optometrist in Indianapolis, IN, you may find yourself prescribed with bifocals. They are a common lens that treats common vision issues in many patients. A bifocal prescription should not be concerning, but it is natural to have questions. These are some of the most common questions we’ve received at Eyes For Wellness and their answers.

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What Is a Bifocal Lens?

On a technical level, bifocal lenses have two separate lenses in a single pair of eyeglasses. The purpose is to help people who have trouble auto-adjusting their focus from close to distant objects. With the double lens, a person no longer has to autofocus. They look through one lens for things that are close and the other for things that are far away.

When Are Bifocals Appropriate?

They are most commonly prescribed for older patients, but sometimes younger patients need them too. The big identifier is when you have a lens for seeing things (either for close or distant objects). If you notice that you suddenly can’t see things through the lens that used to be clear, there’s a good chance you need bifocals.

What Should I Expect from Switching to Bifocals?

Everyone is different, so experiences will vary. On average, it takes patients around three weeks to fully adjust to their bifocals. Patients who use the lenses more often or were more acclimated to wearing glasses before the switch often find the transition easier. There are rarely any significant problems with the switch, but some patients will have trouble with peripheral vision. This stems from the fact that the lens doesn’t wrap around the side of the eye.

Are There Bifocal Contacts?

Bifocal contacts are made and come in a few varieties. Simultaneous and translating lenses are two common types of contacts. Simultaneous lenses allow the eyes to see through both lens adjustments at the same time. The patient's brain is able to sort out the images and produce good vision.

Translating contacts are designed more like traditional bifocal glasses. The lenses are clearly separated, and the patient can look through the far lens and the close lens distinctly and at will.

One will work better than the other depending on the root cause of the focus problems. Many patients can get relief from contacts, but they may not be able to correct all of the conditions that fall under the purview of bifocals.

Find Your Pair of Bifocals in Indianapolis

If you think you might need bifocals or any other help with your eyes, call Eyes For Wellness at (317) 818-0541. We’ll get you in with an optometrist to give you a comprehensive eye exam and make sure you’re in good health with good vision.

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