Multifocal Contact Lens for Presbyopia

Presbyopia is the loss of clear close-up vision and is part of the natural ageing process. Often beginning around age 40, symptoms include blurry vision, headaches, and eye strain when trying to read something close-up. Many individuals with presbyopia may consider wearing multifocal contact lenses to help correct their vision, especially if they have more than one other refractive error. What are multifocal contact lenses, and what are the factors to consider when choosing them? Learn more in this guide.

What are Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses are a type of contact lenses that provide clear vision at multiple distances. They are designed for individuals with presbyopia and may also be used to correct other refractive errors like nearsightedness and astigmatism simultaneously due to having two or more “powers” or prescriptions. With different focus zones that work together, multifocal contact lenses help you see clearly at all distances, potentially minimising the need for separate reading glasses.

How Do Multifocal Contact Lenses Work?

Multifocal contact lenses correct presbyopia by having multiple zones of vision correction in a single lens. Each zone can focus light from different distances, allowing you to see objects that are close, far away, or somewhere in between. Think of it like looking through a screen window. You can either look at the screen or at what’s behind it. That is exactly how multifocal lenses work, as they make it easier for individuals to see objects both near and far.

These lenses have a design that includes concentric rings or a gradual change in power starting from the centre, directed outwards. For first-time users, your brain may need some time to adjust to the correct focus depending on the distance of the object being viewed. However, this will eventually improve as your brain adapts to the lenses over time.

Types of Multifocal Lenses

There are various types of presbyopia contact lenses with different designs. Getting a contact lens fitting can help determine the most suitable type of lens for your preference and visual needs.

Segmented lens

Segmented multifocal lenses have a visible line that marks each distinct zone. They are particularly suitable for tasks that need consistent switching between close and distant vision while using the same eyewear, such as reading documents and then looking at a computer screen.

Aspheric lens

Aspheric lenses transition seamlessly from one area to another in your vision by blending multiple prescriptions across their surface. This gives a more natural vision correction, mirroring the eye’s natural curvature. Aspheric lenses are ideal for a range of activities from reading to driving.

Concentric lens

Concentric multifocal contact lenses feature rings of vision correction instead of top to bottom sections. Thus, concentric designs are useful for those who need distinct zones for different distances, seamlessly helping the eyes shift focus from close to distant objects.

The Pros & Cons of Wearing Multifocal Contact Lenses

While multifocal contact lenses are often offered as a convenient means of visual correction for individuals with presbyopia, you should be aware of the pros and cons before trying them. Remember that the best way to decide if multifocal contact lenses are for you is by consulting with a reliable eye doctor.

Pros

Just like contact lenses in general, presbyopia contact lenses are a great option if you are not keen on wearing eyeglasses due to the weight, poor peripheral vision, or appearance. They are also recommended for individuals who need to frequently switch between ranges of vision for their daily activities.

Moreover, multifocal contacts are less likely to be affected by environmental factors such as rain or fog. This makes them potentially more comfortable to wear than eyeglasses, which may need to be frequently wiped. Lenses also provide a more natural field of view, allowing you to carry out activities such as driving and playing sports with more peace of mind.

Cons

Although multifocal contact lenses have numerous advantages for people with presbyopia, it is also important to consider who can wear multifocal contact lenses and how long it takes to adjust to them.

In general, anyone with minimal astigmatism (under 1.00D or 1.50D) can wear multifocal lenses, but you will need an optometrist to check your specific condition and assess whether you can wear them. Individuals with astigmatism greater than that can still wear them by consulting with their optometrist, as it may take longer adjustment time. In this case, it is a good idea to try wearing reading glasses or multifocal glasses first, and then try switching to multifocal contact lenses once your brain has grasped the basic process of switching between powers.

Before making a decision, scheduling a comprehensive eye screening in Singapore ensures your optometrist can assess your specific condition and determine the most suitable lens type for your vision needs.

Also, some people, particularly older adults, have a higher risk of chronic dryness in their eyes. This may make wearing contact lenses more uncomfortable.

Start Your Presbyopia Management Journey with Philip D. Izaac

Presbyopia may cause inconvenience and frustration when carrying out regular activities that require switching between close and distant vision. However, with proper corrective solutions such as multifocal contact lenses, presbyopia is manageable.

Looking for reputable and qualified optometrists to correct presbyopia in Singapore? Let Philip D. Izaac assist you with presbyopia correction and overall eye health. Philip D. Izaac is an optometrist in Singapore ready to help you with your optical health needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!