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Home » What’s New » Pros and Cons of Multi / Bi – focal contact lenses

Pros and Cons of Multi / Bi – focal contact lenses

Glasses and Contacts Multifocal and Bifocal Lenses Houston, TX 640×350 1

Are you over the age of 40 and have begun noticing issues with both your near and far vision? You may have presbyopia! If so, your eye doctor may recommend bifocal or multifocal contact lenses as an ideal way to help you address these vision issues and see your best.

For those considering bifocal or multifocal contacts, our eye care team at offers you some pros and cons to consider. Take a look:

Pro: Better Vision, Near to Far

Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses have different zones for different areas of vision. Bifocal contacts have distinct zones like bifocal glasses, multifocals are made up of concentric rings that each have a different prescription. Both constructions allow for natural-feeling vision at all distances. Your eye doctor will be able to tell you whether bifocal or multifocal lenses will work best for you.

Pro: Less Need For Glasses

It can be a very frustrating experience to have to use different pairs of glasses to focus properly at different distances. At the same time, multifocal or bifocal glasses can make some people feel like they “look old.”

Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses can do away with the need for multiple pairs of glasses and provide a more natural look and visual experience than multifocal or bifocal glasses.

Con: Bifocal and Multifocal Contacts Aren’t For Everyone

Certain conditions such as cataracts, severe dry eye, or exceptionally severe astigmatism can make normal multifocal or bifocal contact lenses a poor choice. These and similar conditions can seriously limit or negate the effectiveness of these contacts. In this case, your eye doctor may recommend finding a more effective solution to correct your presbyopia.

Con: You May Still Need Reading Glasses

Unfortunately, in some cases, multifocal contacts can cause your vision to be a bit blurry at different distances. Some bifocal and multifocal brands may provide better distance vision while others offer better distance vision. For some, this means supplementing their vision with over-the-counter reading glasses for particularly challenging lighting conditions or especially small print.

For more information about multifocal and bifocal contact lenses, contact our eye care team at today!

At Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 346-258-5701 or book an appointment online to see one of our Houston eye doctors.

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Q&A

What causes presbyopia?

Presbyopia occurs when the lens of the eye begins to harden, making it less flexible. This makes it harder for the eye to refocus between distance and near vision. As a result, vision can suffer at all distances, though it is often most pronounced when attempting common near vision tasks such as reading.

Do bifocal and multifocal lenses come in different types?

Yes. Multifocal and bifocal contact lenses come in soft disposable, rigid gas-permeable and hybrid designs. Soft disposable lenses also offer the possibility of both daily- and monthly-wear options. Ask your eye doctor which option would work best for you.