Side Effects of Progressive Lenses
By Essilor News
What Are Progressive Lenses?
Progressive lenses are used to correct presbyopia, the loss of the eyes’ ability to focus on near objects. Sometimes referred to as no-line bifocals, progressive lenses have three visual fields for viewing distant objects, intermediate objects, and close-up objects. More viewing fields allow the wearer to see clearly at all distances. With plenty of advantages, progressive lenses also come with a few temporary disadvantages.
Possible Disadvantages of Progressive Lenses
Progressive lenses, which are thinner and lighter, require a higher degree of expertise and technology than single-vision lenses or bifocals, making them more expensive. They usually have a smoother transition, which makes them cost more, too. Plus, adaptive progressive lenses, digital block lenses (computer glasses), or hydrophobic lens coatings can layer on additional cost. Fortunately, companies like Essilor have promotional offers that can help offset cost when you’re shopping for new lenses.
Many people have a difficult time adjusting to the different lens powers in progressive lenses. If wearers are not used to multiple changes in lens power, progressive lenses can make them nauseous and dizzy at first. Another disadvantage is that peripheral vision can be slightly altered by the changes that occur at the edge of progressive lenses. This distortion in viewing is often referred to as a "swim effect." Many of these side effects will diminish within a short period of time, and it’s helpful to wear your new lenses all day long. However, if your new progressive lenses still do not feel comfortable after two to three weeks, your eye doctor can provide further assistance.
Choose the Right Progressive Lenses for You
Fortunately, new technology in Essilor’s progressive lenses is helping decrease some vision-altering effects. By completely reengineering the fundamental structure of progressive lenses, technologies used to produce Varilux® S Series lenses can reduce the swim effect by up to 90%. Presbyopic patients can finally enjoy wearing their eyeglasses—virtually eliminating the negative side effects.