Single vision lenses are used for patients who require one prescription in their glasses, whether it be for distance, reading glasses or computer glasses.  These are made to focus only at one particular viewing distance.  Some patients may wear Single Vision lenses for full time wear based on their prescription.  Others may need a separate Rx for distance and near. 

Many progressive wearers prefer a second pair of Near only glasses for reading in bed, or for pursuing hobbies in which they would like a larger near field of view.  

Prescription distance only sunglasses are also another great single vision option, although we can provide multifocal options as well.  

Bifocals have two viewing areas: Distance and Near.  Trifocals also add a segment for intermediate or arm's length distances such as a computer.  These lenses have a D-shaped segment in the bottom of the lenses.   When you look straight ahead you can see far away, and when you look in the near segment, you are able to see at near.  Unless you add a trifocal, there is no prescription for arm's length items.  

These can be a little easier to adapt to than a PAL (Progressive Addition Lens)  as you can see the different zones and know exactly where to look.  Some patients prefer this design for easier adaptation, and some prefer to have a PAL that do not have lines for cosmetic reasons as well as the additional zones of vision and smoother transition that they provide.  

A PAL or Progressive Addition Lens (also known as a "No line,") allows for a gradient increase from the distance to near prescription, providing a seamless change.  

PALs are MULTI-focals, meaning there are multiple prescriptions, compared to a BI-focal (2) or TRI-focal (3) prescriptions. This allows for greater flexibility in use, but can take more time to adjust to find the proper zones. Most  people love their PAL once they adapt to them, but it can often take some time and efforts, just like breaking in a new pair of shoes!  

The other benefit is that they look just like single vision lenses to the outside world.  Many people struggle with making the plunge to multifocals and prefer having the no-line style for this reason.

There are over 900 types of PALs and our optician can help find the perfect fit for you. 

For those who use a computer full-time, there are specialized occupational lenses that can add significant comfort.  This can alleviate the neck strain of trying to look through the small computer prescription in a traditional trifocal or progressive lens.  Instead, when you are seated at your computer and looking straight through the top part of the lenses, you will be seeing a wide field of view in the correct prescription for your working distance.  There will be additional power at the bottom of the lens for near tasks as well.  There are many brands that we work with and can customize for you.  

This is a single vision lens but is specially designed to help provide more effortless adapting to different viewing distances. We are in a fast-paced world and our eyes are often taking the hit.  As a society, we are on computers, tablets, smart phones, or other near devices for long periods of time. This brings on eyestrain and fatigue.  

The excessive near demands can also increase the amount of nearsightedness in our children.  The Sync lens is a great option for nearsighted kids to help provide extra visual comfort and reduce the risk of prescription progression. 

These lenses allows the eyes to remain relaxed by adding a small amount of prescription change in the lenses (similar idea to a bifocal or progressive, but a completely different design).  We recommend pairing this lens with a blue light filter for maximum protection.  We use several brands including Hoya Sync, Eyezen, Shamir Relax and Unity Relieve lenses.