See Clearly at Every Distance
If you are holding your phone at arm’s length or switching between readers and regular glasses all day, bifocal and multifocal contact lenses may be a better solution. At Lone Star Eye, we fit modern contact lenses that can help you see clearly at distance, at the computer, and up close, without constantly taking glasses on and off.
What Are Bifocal and Multifocal Contact Lenses?
Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses are designed for people with presbyopia, the age-related change that makes it harder to focus on close objects, usually starting in the 40s. Instead of having only one prescription in the lens, these contacts include different power zones so you can see at more than one distance through the same lens.
- Bifocal contacts generally have two main powers, one for distance and one for near.
- Multifocal contacts have a more gradual change in power, similar to progressive glasses, to give a smoother shift between distance, computer, and close work.
These designs are available in soft and gas permeable materials, and many come in toric options for astigmatism.
Who Can Benefit From Bifocal or Multifocal Contacts?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Find yourself reaching for reading glasses several times a day
- Struggle to see menus, text messages, or labels up close
- Already wear contact lenses for distance and now notice near blur
- Want freedom from switching between multiple pairs of glasses
Many patients who thought they were finished with contacts after 40 are surprised at how well they can see with today’s bifocal and multifocal options.
How Do These Lenses Work?
Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses use carefully designed optics so your eyes can access different focusing powers at once. Your visual system then learns to use the part of the image that is sharpest for the task you are doing.
Common designs include:
- Center distance lenses, where distance is in the middle and near power is around the outside
- Center near lenses, which place reading power in the center and distance toward the edge
- Aspheric designs, which blend distance and near powers in a smooth curve for a more natural transition
Your optometrist will choose a starting design based on your prescription, visual needs, and eye health, then fine tune the fit and power.
Types of Bifocal and Multifocal Contact Lenses
You have several replacement and material options:
- Daily disposable lenses
Fresh pair each day, helpful for dry eye or allergy prone eyes. - Monthly or bi weekly lenses
Cost effective for regular wearers, require proper cleaning and storage. - Soft bifocal or multifocal lenses
Very comfortable, available for many prescriptions, including astigmatism. - Rigid gas permeable and specialty lenses
Crisp vision and durable, useful for higher prescriptions or irregular corneas.
At Lone Star Eye, we offer a wide range of brands and designs so we can match your lens to your lifestyle, not the other way around.
Adapting to Multifocal Contacts
Most patients adapt well, but it can take a little time for your eyes and brain to adjust. During the first few days you may notice:
- Slight shadowing around letters
- A short period where small print is easier than very fine print
- Changing clarity when you move from bright to dim lighting
This is normal, and our team will guide you on how long to wear the lenses each day as you adapt. Small prescription tweaks are common during the follow up period to get the best balance of distance and near vision.
Your Multifocal Contact Lens Fitting at Lone Star Eye
A proper fitting is the key to comfort and clear vision, especially with bifocal and multifocal designs. At your visit, we will:
- Review your daily tasks
We will talk about your work, hobbies, screen time, and reading needs so we know which distances matter most to you. - Check your prescription and eye health
We measure your distance and near prescription, evaluate your focusing system, and examine the surface of your eyes to ensure contacts are a safe choice. - Select a lens design and material
Based on your exam, we choose an initial lens style, power, and replacement schedule that fits your goals. - Apply trial lenses
You will try lenses in the office so we can assess comfort, vision at different distances, and lens movement on the eye. - Fine tune and follow up
We schedule follow up visits to check your progress and adjust power or design as needed.
Our goal is simple: help you see clearly at the distances you use most, with contacts that feel comfortable throughout your day.
Common Questions About Bifocal and Multifocal Lenses
Will I see as sharply as I did with single vision distance contacts?
Your vision should be clear at distance and near, but there can be tradeoffs. Some patients prefer slightly softer distance vision in exchange for excellent reading vision, while others choose stronger distance with mild compromise up close. We will work with you to find the right balance.
Can I still wear glasses sometimes?
Yes. Many patients wear multifocal contacts most of the time and keep a pair of glasses as a backup or for extended computer sessions.
Are multifocal lenses safe for long term use?
When lenses are fitted correctly, worn as directed, and cared for properly, they are a safe option for most healthy eyes. Regular eye exams help us monitor your eye health over time.
Schedule Your Bifocal or Multifocal Contact Lens Exam
You do not have to choose between distance vision and close up clarity. Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses can help you read, work on the computer, and see across the room with one pair of lenses.
Schedule a contact lens evaluation at Lone Star Eye today to find out if bifocal or multifocal contacts are right for you. Our team will walk you through every step, from your first trial pair to long term care and follow up.