If you have presbyopia and are looking to be fit with contact lenses, your eye doctor may recommend multifocal contacts. These lenses are designed for patients who have presbyopia, which is the gradual loss of your eye’s focusing power over time.
In the video below, Dr. Ryan Corte talks about multifocal contact lenses and when they work best.
How do multifocal contact lenses work?
Multifocal contacts allow both of your eyes to work as a team so you can see clearly up close AND far away. Also, they look and feel the same as any other contact lens, so comfort typically isn’t an issue. Just like reading glasses, they come in different strengths and can significantly improve your quality of life.
Multifocal contact lenses come in soft, hard and hybrid options. Soft multifocal contact lenses are the most popular and are available in daily, biweekly and monthly disposable materials.
RELATED: Monovision Contact Lenses for Presbyopia: Are They Right for You?
On the other hand, hard and hybrid multifocal contact lenses are a great alternative to soft multifocals. These lenses often take longer for your eye doctor to fit and are mostly reserved for people who have astigmatism or require strict visual requirements.
When your doctor first fits you with multifocal contact lenses, keep in mind the following:
1) They work BEST with both eyes together.
Therefore, don’t go back and forth comparing your vision between each eye. It won’t be as clear as your vision with both eyes together and it will drive you crazy!
2) They often take time to adapt to.
Keep in mind, they may require a week or two of wearing before you know if they’re going to fit your lifestyle.
3) They work best in environments with good lighting conditions.
As a result, driving at night or reading in a dimly lit room may be challenging.
Lastly, if you have a high amount of astigmatism or have difficulty seeing with multifocal contact lenses, a monovision contact lenses fit may be a good option for you.
Curious if you’re a candidate for multifocal contact lenses? What are you waiting for? Make sure to schedule an appointment with your local eye care professional today!
