How Do I Know if My Prescription Is Bifocal or Progressive?

If you wear eyeglasses, understanding your prescription is crucial to ensuring that you have the right lenses for your vision needs. Two common multifocal lenses are bifocal and progressive lenses, which address distance and near vision. But how do you know if your prescription is bifocal or progressive? This article will help you decipher your eyeglass prescription and distinguish between these two lens designs.

Understanding Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses are designed to provide two different prescriptions in a single lens. They are typically indicated by a small horizontal line at the bottom of the lens, known as the “bifocal line” or “segment”.

Reading Prescription

If you have difficulty seeing things up close, such as reading a book or working on a computer screen, your eyeglass prescription may include a reading prescription.

Distance Prescription

Above the bifocal line, you’ll find your prescription for distance vision, which helps you see objects clearly in the distance.

Segregation of Prescriptions

Bifocal lenses segregate these prescriptions, with the reading prescription placed at the bottom of the lens. This allows you to switch your gaze between near and distant objects.

Understanding Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses, also known as “no-line bifocals” or “varifocal lenses,” offer a more seamless transition between different vision zones. Unlike bifocal lenses, progressive lenses have no visible line or segment. Here’s what you need to know about them:

Gradual Progression

Progressive lenses gradually progress prescription strength from the top (distance vision) to the bottom (reading or close-up vision) of the lens.

Intermediate Vision

In addition to distance and reading prescriptions, progressive lenses provide clear vision for intermediate distances, such as viewing a computer screen or reading music.

Line-Free Aesthetics

One of the primary benefits of progressive lenses is their line-free design, which offers a more aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to bifocal lenses.

HOW TO IDENTIFY prescription LENSES

Bifocal Lenses

To determine if your prescription is bifocal, look for the following indications:

1. The presence of a bifocal line or segment on your eyeglass prescription.
2. Specific notations such as “ADD” (short for “addition”) that indicate the strength of the reading prescription.

You likely have bifocal lenses if you see these elements on your prescription.

Progressive Lenses

Determining if your prescription is for progressive lenses is relatively straightforward:

1. There should be no visible line or segment separating different prescriptions on the prescription document.
2. The prescription may include specific measurements and notations, such as “ADD” or “NV-ADD” (near vision addition), indicating the strength of the reading prescription.

You likely have a progressive lens prescription if your prescription lacks a visible line but includes these notations.

Consulting Your Eye Doctor

If you still need to decide whether your prescription is bifocal or progressive, it’s always best to consult your eye doctor or optometrist. They can explain your prescription in detail, clarify any doubts, and provide guidance on selecting the most suitable eyeglasses for your needs.

How to Order prescription Glasses

1. SELECT THE FRAME

RX Safety offers a wide range of safety glasses, eyeglasses, and sunglasses that are prescription available. Choose your favorite one.

AFTER CHOOSING THE PERFECT FRAME, CLICK IN ‘SELECT PRESCRIPTION LENSES’

3. SELECT LENS COLOR

Customize your lenses by choosing your lens color, including Transition options.

SELECT YOUR FAVORITE LENS COLOR

5. ADD YOUR PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION

Now it is the time to upload or fill your prescription information. You’re done! The rest is with us. We will work on your prescription glasses and deliver to your address.

ADD YOUR PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION

Additional Information

It’s important to note that, in some cases, individuals may have multiple prescriptions for different purposes. For example, you may have a single-vision prescription for distance vision in one eye and a reading prescription in the other. This scenario is relatively rare but not uncommon.

Additionally, some people may choose to wear contact lenses instead of glasses, and the same principles apply to contact lens prescriptions. Your eye doctor can help you understand the specifics of your contact lens prescription and whether it corresponds to bifocal or progressive lenses.

In conclusion, understanding your eyeglass prescription is essential to ensure clear and comfortable vision. You can make informed decisions about your eyewear by identifying whether your prescription is bifocal or progressive. Remember that your eye doctor is your best resource for clarifying doubts and guiding you toward the right eyeglasses or contact lenses. Whether you opt for bifocals or progressive lenses, the goal is to enjoy clear and comfortable vision at all distances.