What's My Line? The Difference Between Bifocals And Progressive Lenses

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If you have a problem with seeing both near and far, your optometrist at your local eye surgery center may prescribe you bifocals. Bifocal lenses have two different focus points, one for distance, one for close up. Generally, the focal points are separated by a visible line. However, not everyone wants to see a line in their glasses. There are options available to those who don't want to see a line. Progressive lenses are one of those options. But what's the real difference between progressive lenses and bifocals?

Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses are multi-focal lenses. That means that they have your distance prescription, a medium distance focal point, and then your near focal point. The three focal points aren't really trifocals, but they allow your eye to more normally adjust from distance vision to near vision. 

Progressive vs. Bifocals

There are pros and cons to each one, so considering their differences can help you choose which one is best for you. One difference is the lack of image jump. In traditional bifocals, image jump happens when you switch from your distance focus to your near focus. What you are looking at seems to jump slightly and can be disorienting to some people. Since progressive lenses have the multiple focal points and no line, your eye adjusts easily and there is no image jump. Another difference is that it is easier to do things that are in between the distance and near. For example, if you are wearing bifocals, working on your computer may be difficult since the screen tends to be right in between your distance vision and your near vision. Since progressive lenses have the middle focal point, it's easier to do something like work on your computer. But, if you aren't having any problems in that middle distance, then bifocals are a good choice for you, since they just have the distance and near focal points. Bifocal lenses also tend to be less expensive than progressive lenses are, which can be a benefit if you are on a tight budget when it comes to your glasses. 

Some people like to have the lines on their bifocals because it makes it easier for them to differentiate between the two different focal points. But for people who don't want to have that line, progressive lenses are a good choice. No matter which one you choose, your vision is going to be corrected so that you can easily see again. 

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