Types of Multifocal Contact Lenses And How They Work

Have you or any of your family members discovered significant difficulties while reading text messages on the phone recently? Do objects, somehow, seem blurry when they are nearer? Perhaps you have to squint your eyes to see things from a distance in an effort to correct your vision?

If the answer is yes to any of the above, chances are, you might have presbyopia. 

 

But wait, what is presbyopia? 

Presbyopia is an inevitable natural eye condition that generally occurs in people over 40.

As you age, your natural eye lens succumbs to progressive thickening which results in a loss of flexibility. When this occurs, you’ll eventually find activities that require near vision a challenging task. This condition continues to worsen up till around the age of 65.

If your eyesight is affected considerably, day-to-day activities can be affected. 

Of course, although a rarer occurrence, presbyopia isn’t purely limited to the older generation since it can also occur in young children, so make sure to go for regular eye checkups to maintain optimal eye health.

 

How do I know if I have presbyopia?

You could have presbyopia if you experience the following conditions: 

• It’s tough to read text messages or the newspaper. 

• Your eyes feel lethargic easily when focusing on objects near to you.

• It’s difficult to focus on close objects.

• You begin to strain your eyes or experience headaches when using them to see objects that are near.

• Reading small print becomes a demanding task.

• You feel a need for brighter environments or lighting when you’re trying to focus on objects that are near.

If you detect any of these symptoms and if your condition is severe, consider checking in with an optometrist for an eye examination.

 

So, what if you’re diagnosed with presbyopia? 

Based on your lifestyle and day-to-day activities, your eye doctor could recommend refractive surgery. A popular type of refractive surgery would be LASIK. This option, however, may not be the first choice for everyone.

Alternative solutions include corrective eyeglasses aka spectacles and multifocal contact lenses!

Multifocal contact lenses

What are multifocal contact lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses are an all-in-one solution that helps to overcome presbyopia.

 

How do multifocal contact lenses work?

Aimed at vision correction, multifocal lenses allow people with presbyopia to focus on up-close, intermediate and distant objects, an all-in-one solution. 

In essence, multifocal contact lenses offer clear vision at varying distances with different lens powers; one for near and up-close vision, one for intermediate vision and one for further distances.

 

What are the different types of multifocal contact lenses?

There are generally two primary types:

 

1. Concentric multifocal contact lenses

Lenses with concentric design consist of a set of rings, each providing a different lens power for varying distances.

 

 

2. Aspheric multifocal contact lenses

Simulating a bull’s eye, the aspheric multifocal contact lens is located at the centre of the eye. As the wearer gradually shifts their focus the lens allows transitions between near and far distance lens powers.

 

What are the types of multifocal contact lenses brands available?

CooperVision clariti 1 Day Multifocal

 

If you prefer daily disposables, the CooperVision 1-Day Multifocal contact lenses are a great option to consider. Designed with a high focus on comfort and moisturisation, this contact lens contains Silicone Hydrogel (SiHy) which allows for better oxygen permeability leading to better-optimised eye health. 

 

CooperVision Biofinity Multifocal

 

The CooperVision Biofinity Multifocal contact lenses ensure all-day wearability by combining the best of both worlds: ultimate comfort and exceptional visual performance. By utilising  Balanced Progressive and Aquaform Technology, it delivers the necessary features to facilitate better vision while retaining daily hydration.

 

CooperVision Proclear Multifocal

 

The Coopervision Proclear 1-Day Multifocal contact lenses provide high levels of hydration with 96% moisture retention for 12 hours. It comes with advanced PC Technology that retains maximum moisture, which makes it an amazing option to ease age-related dryness, supplying optimal moisturisation to the wearer.

Check out the daily option if you prefer less hassle, or go for the monthly alternative if that’s your preference. 

 

Menicon Miru 1-Month Multifocal

 

Another ideal option to counter presbyopia would be the Menicon Miru 1-month Multifocal contact lenses. With its built-in Dual Balanced Design, it’s developed for premium comfort and optimal vision. The excellent oxygen permeability and strong resistance to bacteria allow the wearer the luxury of all-day comfort.

 

1-Day Acuvue Moist for Multifocal

 

The 1-Day Acuvue Moist for Multifocal contact lenses supports multi-dimensional clear vision regardless if it’s near, intermediate or far distance. 

In fact, it contains Lacreon Technology which allows up to 20 hours of wearability ensuring maximum comfort. This contact lens allows a sharp vision that is coupled with UV protection allowing you to enjoy the ultimate convenience. 

 

Bausch & Lomb SofLens Multi-Focal

 

The Bausch & Lomb SofLens Multifocal employs Natra-Site Optics for wider transition between near, intermediate and far vision to facilitate clearer eyesight across all distances.

 

Maintaining monthly multifocal lenses

For monthly contact lenses, do keep in mind that an impeccable eye care routine is required to prevent bacterial infection. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses and store them in designated cases to prevent contamination.

If you’re contemplating which contact lens brand would better suit your eye needs, take our quiz to find a tailored recommendation!

 

Conclusion 

 

Age-related eye issues may cause inconvenience. However, with regular eye-check ups, you’ll be better equipped to optimise your eye health through early detection. 

If you’re considering purchasing a pair of multifocal contact lenses, you can check out our range of multifocal lenses here: Multifocal contact lenses collection

Not sure if you require multifocal lenses? Hop on a call with our Tele-Optometrist today for an in-depth consultation!

Are you stuck between the different contact lens brand options? Look no further! Check out our guide on the essential contact lens brands for everyday wear to make a decision.