The different types of corrective lenses

Depending on your ophthalmologist's prescription, your lenses come in different corrections: Single vision, Bifocal, or Progressive.

Celine Roland Opticien Lunetier explains the difference between these three corrections.

Single vision lenses 

Single vision lenses are a common corrective lens option used to correct a single type of vision problem, whether nearsightedness (blurred near vision) or farsightedness (blurred distance vision). They feature a single uniform prescription across the entire lens surface, making them suitable for correcting vision within a single range of distances.

Single vision lenses are available in a variety of materials and options, including thin lenses, high-index lenses, and anti-reflective coatings. They are used in prescription glasses for near or distance vision correction, reading glasses, and sunglasses.

The prescription for single vision lenses is customized according to individual visual needs, and there may be an initial adjustment period when using them.

Bifocal lenses 

Bifocal lenses are a corrective lens option designed to correct two distinct vision problems in a single pair of glasses. They feature two distinct correction zones on the lens surface, with an upper zone for distance vision and a small lower half-moon for near vision, allowing users to switch between the two depending on their needs.

Bifocal lenses are customized according to each eye's prescription, but their use may require an adjustment period during which the user gets used to switching from one correction zone to the other. They are commonly used by people with presbyopia, who need near vision correction in addition to distance vision correction, and they are practical for activities requiring frequent transitions between near and distance vision.

Some users may eventually prefer to switch to progressive lenses for a smoother transition with no visible line between correction zones.

Progressive lenses 

Progressive lenses, also known as multifocal lenses, are a sophisticated optical solution designed to correct multiple vision problems in a single pair of glasses without the need for visible dividing lines.

Unlike bifocal lenses, which offer only two correction zones for near and distance vision, progressive lenses offer a gradual and continuous transition between these two zones, as well as intermediate zones for mid-range vision. This smooth progression allows users to see clearly at all distances without having to switch between different parts of the lenses.

Progressive lenses are particularly suited to people with presbyopia who need near vision correction due to aging, but they are also useful for other types of correction. Although their advanced technology offers better aesthetics and a smoother transition, some users may require some adaptation time to get used to these lenses.