Can I get multifocal contact lenses to see near and far?

Just like with multifocal or varifocal glasses, there are also multifocal contact lenses available to help you see near and far and everything in between without having to wear glasses.

They work by having multiple prescriptions in a single lens - one for close objects, one for objects viewed at a distance and another for everything in between. They are available in a range of different designs to suit your prescription and lifestyle. They can be worn all day, every day, for occasional use, or just when required, for sports or for a night out, for example.

Why are multifocal lenses needed?

As we get older, the lenses in our eyes gradually become less flexible, which is a condition known as presbyopia. Presbyopia is a natural part of ageing, caused by a reduction in the elasticity of your crystalline lens and the loss of flexibility in the muscles that control your eye's focusing ability for near objects.

Advances in lens technology in recent years mean that multifocal lenses are good for people with presbyopia, giving the freedom to see clearly at all distances.

You are likely to develop presbyopia around 40 years of age. If you have an eye disease that affects your vision, such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration or retinitis pigmentosa, you may also be more likely to develop presbyopia sooner than someone without these conditions.

Multifocal contacts FAQs

If I wear multifocal contacts, will I still need glasses?

Most of the time you will not have to wear eyeglasses over your contact lenses for your daily activities. However if you find that your distance vision is compromised at dusk, you may need to consider wearing glasses for driving at night or swapping to a pair of distance only contact lenses, to give you the best vision.

Will I be able to see in the dark with my multifocal contacts?

Yes. In fact, many people will tell you that they can now see even better in the dark than they could with their glasses.

Will I be able to drive with my multifocal contacts?

Yes. In fact, many people find that they can drive better with multifocal contacts than with their glasses.

Are multifocal contacts safe?

Multifocal contacts are just as safe as single vision contacts, ask your eyecare professional for more details.

Are there any disadvantages to wearing multifocal contact lenses?

There may be a period of adjustment while your brain learns how to use the new information from the lens.

How often should I replace my multifocal contact lens?

It's important to follow your eye care professional's instructions regarding when to replace your contact lens. Multifocal contact lenses are available as daily, 2 weekly or monthly lenses, depending on your prescription and your requirement.

Contact lens consultations should be every 6-12 months and regular eye examinations are important so the Optician can monitor you vision and eye health and offer diagnosis or treatment if necessary. We recommend you visit us at least every 2 years for an eye test at which time we will inform you if you need new prescriptions. We have easy Online Booking for appointments or call 020 8759 9395.

Whatever your prescription and whatever your reasons for wearing contacts, our optical team will help choose the perfect lenses for you. This choice will depend on a number of factors including what your eyes measure, your prescription, comfort, convenience and cost, but your eye health will always be the most important factor.

Thanks to continual advances in optical technology, there’s never been a better time to find a lens design to suit your individual requirements. Can I get multifocal contact lenses to see near and far? YES YOU CAN!

Our advice for an eye injury or emergency

Eye problems can happen to anyone, at any time. It doesn't matter how young or old you are, or how fit you are. It's our goal to help you get back to your normal life as quickly as possible. If you are ever worried about your eyes or your family’s eye health, feel free to come and talk to us about eye care. We may be able to help you with a simple course of eye drops saving you a visit to the eye doctor.

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