Lens Options
Ask the specialists at Medical Eye Center Optical about these lens options designed to enhance your unique lifestyle.
Single Vision Lenses
These lenses are intended to correct for one of the two common types of refractive error – nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). They may also correct for astigmatism.
Multifocal Lenses
These lenses correct for more than one refractive error. A common multifocal lens is the Bifocal lens, where the upper portion of the lens is corrected for distance viewing and the lower portion of the lens is corrected for near viewing (14–20 inches). Trifocals add a third segment to allow for intermediate viewing (20–36 inches). With traditional bifocals and trifocals, the near and intermediate segments are distinct, so they are often referred to as Lined Bifocals or Lined Trifocals.
Progressive Lenses
Progressive lenses were developed to eliminate the lines on bifocals and trifocals that many patients find bothersome. Progressive lenses provide clear distance, intermediate and near vision—and provide a gradual transition between the different segments. Because there are no lines, progressive lenses are often considered to be more attractive and natural than lined bifocals or trifocals. There are over 300 brands of progressives available today.
Transitions™ Lenses
These lenses lighten and darken according to UV exposure. Transitions™ offer the comfort of regular eyeglasses and sunglasses in one convenient pair! Transitions lenses are in their 5th generation and the speed at which these lenses change color has improved dramatically in the past ten years. They are also effective in blocking UV radiation. Note: discount retailers often sell earlier generations of Transitions™ lenses that are not nearly as fast or dark as the newest generation.
Scratch-Resistance Coatings
Recommended—and guaranteed to protect lenses from everyday wear and tear. The coating provides a harder finish to the lens, making the lens far more scratch resistant. MEC warranties their scratch resistant coatings for a minimum of one year.
Anti-Reflective Coated Lenses
Anti-Reflective coatings increase functional light transmission, enhance cosmetic appearance and eliminate glare. The coating also increases the optical performance of the lenses and reduces eye fatigue, particularly while viewing computer screens and driving at night. New technology has vastly improved these coatings in the past few years. Today they are much easier to clean and perform far better than even a few years ago. A minimum one-year warranty is provided for these premium anti-reflective coatings.
Ultraviolet Coating
This is an additional lens application that blocks Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) emissions from the sun. Research suggests that UVA and UVB may contribute to early cataract formation, macular degeneration and eyelid damage.