When deciding on which type of prescription eyeglasses is the most suitable, one must consider several factors. And one of the more common discussions is on the debate on which is better, bifocals with line or progressive eyeglasses.
To have a better analysis, it would be a good idea to lay down first their attributes, strengths and weaknesses, so we can compare them better and arrive at a clearer conclusion.
Description
Bifocals have 2 types of optical powers, mainly used to address problems of astigmatism, hypermetropia or myopia. The lens power on the top is for distance while the one in the bottom is for close-viewing capability (e.g., reading) Often times, Bifocals have a distinct line on the bottom portion of the lens which is utilized when reading. The D-segment, which looks like a half-moon upside down is one of the most common types of Bifocal eyeglasses.
Progressives improve upon the features of Bifocals when it comes to viewing capabilities. They are also called no-line bifocals because they do not have lines which differentiate close and distant vision. Progressives have a “middle” area, which is created to address the medium-range visual function.
Advantages of Progressives over Bifocals
Progressives do not require the visible line that separate distant and close viewing powers, which means the usual “swim or image jump” is avoided. You see, when switching from viewing a distant subject to a very close one using bifocals, the shift in visual distance often results in a disruption of normal flow of vision, which can be annoying and can even have negative impact on your eyes due to the strain it causes. Also, due to the limited number of lens power of traditional bifocals, depth of focus is limited. In order to see things clearly, a specific range must be first determined because subjects outside distances covered by the lens powers in bifocals will be blurry.
Progressive lenses imitate the natural viewing capabilities of the eyes before it acquired its current problems such as presbyopia. By using 3 lenses, it provides a seamless transition between the different eye powers resulting to a clearer vision on all ranges of distance. Another thing to note is that when using progressives, the need to adjust or move your head up and down just to adapt to the computer screen is avoided.
Today’s progressive lenses definitely improved upon its predecessors. For example, the area of the lens for field of view for computer used has been increased, eliminating the need to adjust head position just to see an object clearly. Also, modern progressives are more compatible for that “active” lifestyle since it is much more comfortable to use. Peripheral aberrations and “swim” issues have also been improved upon compared to previous models. In the past, progressive lenses required relatively large frames due to the increased number of lens powers. Today, compact designs are achievable due to the advances in technology which results to more fashionable frames and better suitability to facial features.
Knowing what you need is the first step in deciding which type of eyeglasses to buy. At a lower price, traditional bifocals provide vision correction that may be the best option for some, especially if they could never get comfortable with Progressive types. But if you want more features and viewing capabilities like the ones mentioned above, then give the Progressive eyeglasses a try, they can provide a much more realistic visual experience once get used to.
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