Single vision gives the wearer vision correction at one distance. Up until around the age of 40, this is the lens most patients need for correction.
Bifocal and Trifocal Lenses
Bifocal and trifocal lenses are lenses that give the wearer the ability to see at two (bifocal) or three (trifocal) different distances. This is done with a visible segment at the bottom of the lens, used for near tasks-such as reading-in bifocals; trifocals have correction for intermediate distances-such as computer distance- as well as near.
One of the main complaints with bifocal wearers is eye fatigue from focusing at the different powers. Progressives, also called no lines, gradually pass from one focus power to the next. Not only do they have the benefit of no distinct visible lines, they make it easier for the wearer to focus at all distances more naturally.
High Index Lenses
High index lenses materials are a thinner, lighter option to the standard plastic lens. Nearly all lens types are available in this material. These lenses, so called because of their higher index of light refraction, eliminate the "Pop bottle" look most wearers dislike in their standard lenses. High index lenses come in more impact resistant materials, such as polycarbonate or Trivex, making them more suitable for safety and sports wear, regardless of prescription.
Not every pair can suit every wearer's need. Be it an occupational or a hobby driven need, there is a lens that will be a custom fit. Computer lenses, piano playing lenses, reading lenses, even lenses for carpenters and plumbers that need near vision power at the top and bottom of the lens!
Digital and Free-Form Lenses
The newest lenses on the market, these lenses offer optimum vision for the wearer. A digital lens is a lens made the same as the more common lenses found today, but by being able to skip a step in the lens making process, make a more accurate lens design. Free-form lenses, however, are revolutionizing the way the wearer sees out of their new lenses. It is the difference between off the rack clothing to custom tailoring. Instead of the standard lens blank that common lenses are produced from, the free-form lens is designed specifically for the wearer, using not only the prescription, but the frame information and curvature to give the lenses wider clear zones and clearer vision overall. Many first time wearers are astonished at the difference.
Plastic and resin lenses can attain scratches easier than glass lenses. For this reason, scratch resistant coating is a must. Not only do major scratches impair your vision, they affect the overall cosmetic appearance of your eyewear. Most scratch coatings come with a 2 year warranty against major scratches; it is important to remember, however, that while scratch resistant lenses toughen a lens, it does not make them scratch proof.
Cosmetic and therapeutic tints come in a virtual rainbow of colors. From the newest trendy colors worn by celebrities to therapeutic tints for computer strain, we have the color you want. The tint can be adjusted to your taste, be it a gradient tint that starts bold and fades to clear, to sunglasses dark.
Anti-reflective-also called non-glare, AR, or glare free-is a coating that eliminates reflections, glare, light rings, and "ghost images' by letting more light pass through the lens. By letting 99.5% of light pass through the lens, it improves vision and enhances the cosmetic appeal of lenses. It is especially helpful for night driving, computer work, and/or stronger prescriptions.
Photochromics and Polarized Lenses
While photochromics are not a tint per se, they are an alternative to sunglasses to some patients. The color change occurs as photochromic molecules react to ultraviolet rays, causing the lenses to darken. Photochromics are lenses that change color outdoors and to varying degrees, behind the wheel of a car. They lighten when the wearer goes indoors. They are available in every material, and in a variety of colors.
Glare is annoying and dangerous. Polarized lenses eliminate almost all glare caused by wet roads, snow, water, and reflections from windshields or other cars. This is done by a filter inside the permanently tinted lens that acts the same way vertical blinds do. It lets in necessary light, while eliminating harsh glare. Research has shone that wearing polarized lenses can increase driver reaction time by 1/3 of a second. Doesn't sound like much? That's 23 feet sooner than without polarized lenses, in a car going 50 mph!