All about bifocal contact lenses and their recipients

As with prescription glasses, contact lenses must be chosen according to the visual problem they are going to correct.
There are indeed different types of lenses, shaped differently to adapt to the defect presented by the eye or vision.
Here's what you need to know about bifocal contact lenses and for whom they are intended.

What are bifocal contact lenses?

A conventional contact lens has one corrective power designed to correct near or distance vision.
This power will be determined according to the specific visual problem the person is affected by.
However, some people have difficulty seeing both near and far and require visual equipment that can be adapted to any distance.
Bifocal contact lenses have thus been developed to correct both near, normal and distance vision.
This type of lens has two different corrective focal points that are clearly demarcated on the lens.
This distinguishes them from progressive ones where the different corrective powers are linked imperceptibly to create a smooth transition.
In this respect, bifocal lenses take longer to adapt to and learn to use than progressive lenses.
Two types of bifocal contact lenses can be distinguished according to the positioning of the two corrective foci.
Concentric bifocal lenses provide distance correction at their centre, while the near corrective focus is at the periphery.
In segmented bifocal lenses, the far corrective focus is located in the upper half of the lens and the near corrective focus in the lower half.
Bifocal contact lenses come in a soft version for optimum comfort or a rigid version for high ametropia.

Who are bifocal contact lenses designed for?

Choosing between the different types of contact lenses can sometimes be complicated since there are so many parameters to consider.
That's why it's best to consult a professional, such as your optician, when choosing your contact lenses.
Bifocal contact lenses have the particularity of being able to correct both near and far vision.
They can therefore be indicated for anyone who has difficulty accommodating different distances.
Bifocal lenses are particularly recommended for people with presbyopia.
In fact, these people primarily need visual correction for near vision, but must also be able to have good normal or distance vision.
Bifocal contact lenses can be specifically well suited to this situation.
However, you should bear in mind that wearing bifocal lenses requires the eye to learn to move to one zone or the other of the lens depending on the distance.
Depending on the case, progressive lenses may be more suitable because they are easier to use.
Your Optical Center optician will be able to determine which type of lens is best for you and whether bifocal contact lenses are right for you.