Eyeglass Lenses at SQUINT

People who have more than one vision problem often need eyeglasses with multifocal lenses. Multifocal lenses, such as bifocals, are eyeglass lenses that contain two distinct areas of prescription. The eyeglass lens is split into sections; the upper part is for distance vision and the lower part for near vision, there is no computer area.

In years past, you could spot a multifocal lens by the line separating the two sections. But today, multifocal lenses, called progressive lenses, have no line and the power progressively changes from distance to near with all powers in between. Digital progressives allow for custom measurements and can be designed to provide the best vision for whatever kind of work you do. Progressive lenses provide the best vision for all distances including the computer. You should discuss the options during your exam to determine the best type of lens to fit your specific needs.

Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and are a good choice for people who are active or for children. Polycarbonate lenses also provide ultraviolet protection.

These lenses are made from a newer plastic with similar characteristics of polycarbonate lenses. It is lightweight, thin, and impact-resistant and may result in better vision correction than the polycarbonate lenses for some people.

These eyeglass lenses are unlike typical lenses, which are spherical in shape. Aspheric lenses are made up of differing degrees of curvature over its surface, which allows the lens to be thinner and flatter than other lenses. This also creates an eyeglass lens with a much larger usable portion than the standard lens.

Photochromic lenses adjust to various light conditions and darken and lighten depending on the amount of UV light they are exposed to. There are a few different types, all change in the sun and all protect against 100% of the suns UVA and UVB rays. The right lens for you depends on many factors, you should discuss this during your exam to find the best fit for your life style.

Light reflected from water or a flat surface can cause unwanted glare. Polarized lenses reduce glare and are useful for sports and driving. These lenses may cause the liquid crystal displays on the dashboard of cars to appear invisible.

There are almost as many eyeglass lens coatings as there are types of lenses. They include:

• Anti-reflective coating
  

  If glare becomes a problem, consider an anti-reflective coating applied to new eyeglasses. Anti-reflective coating will reduce reflections, decrease halos around light, and create a nicer cosmetic appearance.

• Scratch-resistant coating and ultraviolet coating
  

  All polycarbonate and Trivex lenses provide 100% UV protection. UV protection can be added to a lens and is a good idea to have for outdoor as well as indoor computer protection. Most lenses have some type of scratch guard coating, and although lenses scratch with or without it, it provides extra protection.

• Tinted lenses
  

  Sometimes a light or dark hint of color on the eyeglass lens can be beneficial to aid in vision. For example, a yellow tint may increase contrast and a gray tint may not alter color perception with sunglasses. A light tint can also hide the signs of aging around the eyes and provide some relief for computer related eye strain.

• Mirror coatings
  

  If you are looking for a purely cosmetic lens that allows the eyes to be hidden from view, then this is the coating for you. Mirror coatings come in a variety of colors such as silver, gold, and blue.