How Bifocal Lenses Can Help You

If you are struggling to see things far away or up close, you may be farsighted or nearsighted. Both kinds of vision can be aided with properly prescribed glasses. However, it is possible to be both farsighted and nearsighted. To correct this kind of vision, you need bifocal lenses. At Hammond Vision Center in Edinburg and McAllen, our team provides the vision testing you need to find what lenses are right for you. 

Benefits of Bifocal Lenses

Bifocals are a single set of lenses with two prescriptions in them. The top part of the bifocal lens corrects nearsighted impairments, while the bottom part of the lens helps with farsighted issues. If you are prescribed bifocal lenses, understand that it can take a little time to get used to them.

Vision as You Age

Most people experience changes in their vision throughout their life.  In older adults, it is possible to develop presbyopia, which is a physiological insufficiency in the eye that progressively worsens the ability to focus on close objects. Bifocals can help with presbyopia, but it's essential to get an annual eye exam to ensure your vision doesn't worsen.

Other Types of Bifocals

Progressive lenses and bifocals work the same by aiding farsightedness and nearsightedness simultaneously. The difference is that while bifocals are two separate prescriptions, progressive lenses smoothly transition the two prescriptions with an intermediate area between them. There is no visible division between far and near portions of the lens, so you will need to select a frame with enough space to accommodate the transition. Some people find progressive lenses more challenging to adjust to than traditional bifocals. Our team can help you figure out if progressive lenses are right for you. 

Another option is bifocal contact lenses. It's the same as the glasses, but the two prescriptions are on the top and bottom of the contact. The problem with bifocal contact lenses is that they have to be precise in size, so they won't further impair your vision. It may take several visits with our team to find the appropriate fit, but we are here to help every step of the way.

Contact Us to See How We Can Help Patients in Edinburg and McAllen, TX

Whether you need bifocal glasses or contact lenses, our optometrists at Hammond Vision Center are ready to find the prescription and fit that is best for you. We care about your eyes and can help you find the bifocals you need for optimal vision. Call us for an appointment or fill out our online appointment request form. Find out how our eye doctors can help improve your vision at our Edinburg or McAllen offices.