Calledpresbyopia, this often comes with age and makes it harder to read small print.
In addition to the vision benefits of progressive lenses, many prefer them simply for aesthetic reasons.
Use this information to have a discussion with your vision care provider about what is best for you.
Peter Dazeley Collection/Photographer’s Choice RF/Getty Images
Standard Progressive Lenses
Standard progressive lenses will work for most people.
They will also fit many budgets without breaking them.
The price is higher than regular flat-top bifocal or trifocal lenses.
Still, they are quite affordable.
Short Corridor Progressive Lenses
Short corridor progressive lenses are designed to fit into smaller frames.
They offer an option that reflects both fashion and function.
Because of their size, it takes a skilled optician to fit them properly.
They are slightly more expensive than standard progressive lenses and range from $250 to $400.
The “corridor” for reading vision is not very wide with these glasses.
If you look down to read, ensure you keep your eyes centered and not out to the sides.
If you’re at a computer more than four hours per day, these lenses are ideal.
They help reduce visual fatigue, orcomputer vision syndrome.
Computer progressive lenses are great for people working at near and intermediate distances.
The price is generally in the $150 to $250 range.
These lenses are designed by computer, with small changes to allow both eyes to work together.
They often allow for the fact that you have a dominant eye.
This means both your prescription and your frame are better customized for you.
As expected, these lenses do cost more than standard or entry-level progressive lenses.
The prices will range from $600 to $800.
These lenses have patented technology that greatly reduces any lens distortions.
They give you a ground view that is meant to be quite close to natural vision.
These lenses range from $350 to $550.
For example, golfers can look down past the reading part of the lens to another zone.
It provides clear vision at an intermediate length, to better see where the ball is on the ground.
A regular progressive lens may cause that area to be blurry and not in focus.
Transitions Progressive Lenses
People sometimes confuse “transition” lenses with progressive lenses.
Transitions is simply a brand of aphotochromaticlens.
These lenses darken on their own when they are exposed to ultraviolet light.
They provide shade for the eyes.
When you walk back indoors, they quickly change to clear again.
Photochromatic lenses are generally anywhere from $80 to $150 above the regular price for a progressive lens.
If so, they have a few more options than they once did.
If it’s in your budget, you may opt for premium lenses that give you a custom fit.
Or you may go with a “ground view” lens that works best for your active lifestyle.
Maybe, if you’re opting for standard progressive lenses.
They are designed to provide optimal vision with small frames.
2020;36(5):300-307. doi:10.3928/1081597X-20200407-02
