Difficulty in seeing text up close is called presbyopia and is typical after the age of 40. In 1959, the introduction of the progressive bifocal lens, also called the no-line bifocal lens, by Bernard Maitenaz gave the public the option of an alternative to the traditional lined bifocal. Although fitting progressive lenses is more challenging than fitting lined bifocals, it offers many benefits if properly done. These benefits include increased range of vision and cosmetics.
Step 1
Choose an eyeglass frame with an adequate vertical height. Too-small vertical frames can cause fitting problems if the near progressive section is too small to read through comfortably. Ask your optician if you are not sure whether the frame is too small.
Step 2
Have the optician accurately measure the distance between your pupils, called the pupillary distance.
Step 3
Have the optician measure the distance from the bottom of each eyelid to the bottom of the eyeglass frames, called the segment height. This height is the measure of distance of where the progressive power will start on the lenses and should be precise, neither too low nor too high.
Step 4
Go over options of types of progressive lenses with the optician. Many companies make progressive lenses, and they are not all the same. Some have wider or narrower reading corridors, and prices vary.
Step 5
Choose lens materials and coatings with the optician. Lenses come in different materials, such as polycarbonate or plastic, and quality varies. Extra coatings on the lenses, such as an antireflective coating, may help depending on the needs of the patient. Discuss the function and use of the glasses for your specific needs with the optician to make the best choice.
Step 6
When the glasses are ready, check that the frames fit well and practice reading with the glasses at the lens shop. Make sure you are reasonably comfortable with them before you leave and that all of your questions are answered.
Step 7
Wear the glasses full time initially and stop wearing your old glasses as you adapt. Experiencing some peripheral distortions and "swim" effect is common in the beginning. Make small head movements to look directly at objects as you adjust. Adaption should occur in days to a couple of weeks.
Tips and Warnings
- Return to the optical for options and suggestions if you have worn the progressives for a week or so and cannot adapt. Move your eyes to read through the lower segment of the eyeglasses, rather than your entire head. Farsighted patients may have a harder time adapting to progressive lenses than nearsighted patients.
- Do not drive with your progressive lenses if you feel uncomfortable with your vision or with distortions through the lenses.
