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Multifocal Lenses: Types, Advantages and Disadvantages
Published on November 3rd, 2023
Updated on May 19th, 2025
Australia
Multifocal Standard
- Some degree of soft focus at the edge of your vision
- Good for occasional glasses use
- Ideal for those on a budget
1 pair with Standard Multifocal
+ $ 0
2 pairs with Standard Multifocal
+ $ 80
3 pairs with Standard Multifocal
+ $ 130
Multifocal Premium
- Wider field of clear vision
- Ideal for those who wear glasses in the office, especially for computer work
- Easier adjustment than standard multifocal lenses
1 pair with Premium Multifocal
+ $ 130
2 pairs with Premium Multifocal
+ $ 180
3 pairs with Premium Multifocal
+ $ 230
Multifocal Elite
- Very wide field of clear vision
- All-rounder lens for modern lifestyle demands, and a lot of computer work
- Provides more natural and comfortable vision
1 pair with Elite Multifocal
+ $ 235
2 pairs with Elite Multifocal
+ $ 285
3 pairs with Elite Multifocal
+ $ 335
Multifocal lenses feature three different prescription strengths all within one pair which works by enabling clear vision for near, intermediate and distance vision. Multifocal lenses may be advantageous for those who require prescription glasses for reading and improved distance vision and patients diagnosed with presbyopia. The disadvantage of multifocal lenses may be the adjustment phase as patients typically take time learning to properly use them. It is important to note that there are also multifocal contact lenses, however, Oscar Wylee does not provide contact lenses. This article will expand further on the meaning of multifocal, the advantages and disadvantages and explore differences between other types of lenses.
What is a Multifocal Lens?
Multifocal lenses are defined as lenses designed to provide clear vision for near, intermediate and distance vision issues. It is common to wonder what multifocal is. If you’re not familiar with different lens types, they refer to multiple prescriptions and are also known as progressive lenses. Multifocal lenses can make it more convenient to view through different distances without the need to use more than one pair of glasses.
Are Multifocal Lenses the Same as Progressive Lenses?
Yes, multifocal lenses are the same as progressive lenses. Progressive lenses can be described as the gradual transition in prescription strength within the lenses as opposed to a visible line separating the prescriptions. At Oscar Wylee, we offer multifocal standard, multifocal premium and the most popular choice, multifocal elite. You may select any of these options for an additional cost on top of your standard optical glasses choice.
How do Multifocal Lenses Work?
Multifocal lenses work by allowing you to see at three different distances all within one lens, combining prescriptions for near, intermediate and distance vision. The bottom portion of multifocal lenses is intended for near vision, the middle portion helps with intermediate vision and the top portion improves distance vision.
What are the Other Types of Lenses Other than Multifocal Lenses?
The other types of lenses are trifocal lenses and bifocal lenses. Trifocal lenses and bifocal lenses are similar to multifocal lenses in their provision of multiple prescription strengths, however, they slightly differ in design. The different types of multifocal lenses are listed below.
- Trifocal Lenses: Trifocal lenses are lenses also made with three different prescription strengths, which are separated by visible lines and are available in two types.
- Bifocal Lenses: Bifocal lenses are intended to improve near and distance vision in one lens.
1. Trifocal Lenses
Trifocal lenses enable clear vision for near, intermediate and distance vision which are divided by visible lines. The two types of trifocal lenses are flat-top, which are designed with their near vision portion and intermediate vision portion fitted in a D shape. This helps enable improved peripheral vision. Executive trifocal lenses may offer a broader range of vision with the different prescription strengths stretched completely across each lens. This may be a good option for individuals with a vision condition and who are over the age of 40. Those who may require varying ranges of vision correction may also opt for trifocal lenses according to NVision Centres. Trifocals differ from multifocal lenses due to their visible lines and the layout of the different prescription strengths. It is important to note that Oscar Wylee does not offer trifocal lenses.
2. Bifocal Lenses
Bifocal lenses have a near vision portion and a distance vision portion and can come in four different types, half-moon, round segment, ribbon segment and executive according to the Optometrists Network. Individuals may choose to use bifocal lenses if they only require vision correction for reading and distance-centered tasks such as driving. Bifocal lenses differ from multifocal lenses as they have clear visible lines, while multifocal lenses do not. Bifocal lenses only feature two different prescription strengths while multifocal and trifocal have three different prescription strengths.
How are Multifocal Lenses Made?
Multifocal lenses are made following the typical eyeglasses production process which may involve designing the lens and selecting the right lens material. The last steps may include lens manufacturing and finally checking the quality of the glasses. Multifocal lenses are typically made out of either glass or plastic. The optical dispenser may decide which material to use based on the patient’s prescription.
Who are Multifocal Lenses Made For?
Multifocal lenses are typically made for those who have difficulties with distance, intermediate and near vision. Multifocal lenses may be especially helpful when you require a certain prescription strength for reading and a different prescription strength for driving.
Are Multifocal Lenses for Older People Only?
No, multifocal lenses are not for older people only, as multifocal lenses can be helpful for other ages. Older people typically use multifocal lenses due to age-related issues that affect their vision such as presbyopia. However, individuals of any age who already use prescription glasses and find themselves struggling with both near and distance vision may choose to opt for multifocal lenses.
Can People With Farsightedness Wear Multifocal Glasses?
Yes and no, people with farsightedness (hyperopia) can wear multifocal glasses if they are also experiencing difficulty with distance and near vision. However, people who only experience farsightedness may not require multifocal glasses as they are designed to correct vision for multiple distances.
Are Glasses For Astigmatism Multifocal?
No, glasses for astigmatism are not exclusively multifocal, they can also be single vision. The most suitable glasses for astigmatism may include lenses that are cylindrical to help with the proper refraction of light. Astigmatism can cause blurry vision as it affects the shape of your cornea and how your eye processes light. Cylindrical lenses assist with correcting astigmatism in patients as they compensate for the curves in the cornea that are uneven. However, individuals with astigmatism may find multifocal lenses beneficial if they also have another eye condition such as presbyopia.
Who Should Not Wear Multifocal Lenses?
Those who only have one vision condition such as farsightedness (hyperopia) should not wear multifocal lenses as single-lens prescription glasses are effective for correcting most vision problems. Patients diagnosed with eye diseases and conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts or macular degeneration may not benefit from multifocal lenses if the glasses are not improving their vision and will likely have a different treatment plan prescribed by an ophthalmologist. Multifocal glasses are beneficial for those with more than one visual error such as multiple refractive errors.
How Do I Know if My Eyeglasses Prescription Requires Multifocal Lenses?
You may know if your eyeglasses prescription requires multifocal lenses if the ADD section of your prescription has numbers in it. The ADD column of your eyeglasses prescription will indicate whether you require multifocal lenses or reading glasses as it is used to indicate how much additional power is needed for reading. An optometrist or optical dispenser will also advise whether you require multifocal lenses.
How Long Do Multifocal Lenses Last?
Multifocal lenses typically last up to two years like most standard prescription glasses. The recommendation for updating your prescription is every 2 years depending on your condition or as advised by your optometrist. It is important to have regular eye tests for early detection of eye problems and to maintain ocular health.
How to Take Care of Multifocal Lenses?
To take care of multifocal lenses, it is important to practice proper storage and handling and regular cleaning. Take care of your multifocal lenses by storing them in the case they come with when you are not using them. This will help ensure they are kept in a safe place and prevent any accidental damages from occurring. When putting on your multifocal lenses or taking them off, it is best to use both hands to prevent the arms from loosening and maintain correct alignment. Cleaning them with the microfibre cloth that your glasses come with and cleaning the lenses with an official lens cleaner can help maintain their condition.
What are the Advantages of Multifocal Lenses?
The advantages of multifocal lenses are the convenience of using one pair of glasses for viewing multiple distances, providing optimal vision, no image jump and no visible lines. The advantages of multifocal lenses are listed below.
- One Pair of Glasses: One pair of glasses for viewing multiple distances may be an advantage for those who require more than one pair of glasses for reading and driving. They will only need to rely on one pair and will not need to constantly switch between pairs.
- Provide Optimal Vision: Multifocal lenses help provide optimal vision at each distance for users. This can ensure comfort and confidence when engaging in activities that require different ranges of vision.
-
No Image Jump:
Multifocal lenses have a seamless transition between the different
prescription strengths so there are no “image jumps” according to
All About Vision. When using bifocals or trifocals, there are often
sudden changes in the clarity of images when moving your eyes to
different objects, this is known as image jumps. Using multifocal
lenses helps prevent this.
- No Visible Lines: Multifocal lenses have no visible lines separating the different prescription strengths like trifocal lenses do. This may make them more cosmetically appealing to individuals who require multifocal glasses.
What are the Disadvantages of Multifocal Lenses?
The disadvantages of multifocal lenses are possibly the adjustment period, headaches, distorted vision and higher price. The disadvantages of multifocal lenses are listed below.
- Adjustment Period: The adjustment period when initially using multifocal lenses may be a disadvantage as learning to properly use them during different tasks may take some time for most users. When looking at the different sections, it is important to also move your head instead of just moving your eyes.
- Headaches: Headaches can commonly occur when first using multifocal lenses due to the adjustment period of making sure to look through the correct portion of the lens for the correct distance However, this should alleviate after getting used to them. It may be helpful to take breaks if you start to experience headaches to rest your eyes and try again later.
-
Distorted Vision: Distorted vision may occur when looking to the sides of multifocal
lenses due to there being more than one prescription strength
incorporated into one lens. Peripheral distortion is a common
feature of multifocals and the amount of distortion is present
according to which level of multifocal you choose. At Oscar Wylee,
choosing the elite multifocal option will result in less peripheral
distortion compared to the standard and premium option.
- Higher Price: Multifocal lenses may come at a higher price than standard single vision lenses due to the expertise and technology required to make multifocal lenses for glasses and that they contain three different prescriptions.
How Much Do Multifocal Lenses Cost?
The cost of multifocal lens glasses can vary depending on where you decide to purchase them. At Oscar Wylee our most popular choice of elite multifocal lenses is an additional $225 for one pair on top of your standard optical glasses selection.
What are the Price Factors for Multifocal Lenses?
The price factors for multifocal lenses can potentially depend on how they were made, the level of prescription strength for each portion of the lens and the type of frame used. The price of multifocal lenses may differ between different optometrists and eyewear companies depending on the production process involved and the visual requirements of different individuals. There are certain frames that multifocal lenses fit more optimally in, however, they can be cut to fit in small to large-sized frames. Therefore, the price may be significantly influenced by which frame you choose to have your multifocal lenses placed in.
Are Multifocal Glasses Expensive Compared to Multifocal Contact Lenses?
No, multifocal contact lenses may be more expensive than multifocal glasses as multifocal contact lenses typically need to be replaced more frequently than multifocal glasses. Therefore, in the long term, contact lenses can likely result in a higher price than optical glasses. The cost of multifocal lenses also largely depends on the brand and how many are included per pack.
Are Multifocal Lenses better than Monofocal Lenses?
Yes and no, multifocal lenses may be better for those who require multiple prescription strengths. However, if you only have one vision condition, you may only need monofocal lenses for correction as they contain a single prescription.
What Prescription Requirements Do You Need for Multifocal Lenses?
The prescription requirements that a person will need to get multifocal lenses are a prescription to correct near vision, a prescription to correct distance vision, and often another for middle or intermediate distance. The purpose of multifocals is to have multiple prescriptions within one lens, to limit switching between glasses. This means a person will need multiple prescriptions for these lenses to be the correct eyewear choice.
What Types of Materials Are Available for Multifocal Lenses?
The types of materials that are available for multifocal lenses will depend on the brand that a person is buying their lenses from. Generally glasses lenses, whether multifocal or single vision, are made from glass or plastics, such as trivex or polycarbonate.
Are There Specialised Multifocal Lenses for Specific Professions?
There are not generally specialised multifocal lenses for specific professions. The three prescriptions may be blended differently over the lenses, with different placement of each prescription, but this is usually determined by brand.
How Should You Care for and Maintain Your Multifocal Lenses?
The ways to care for and maintain your multifocal lenses include regularly cleaning them, the steps of which involve gently blowing on glasses to remove debris, spraying both sides of the lenses with lens cleaner, and wiping lenses using a cloth. To maintain your multifocal lenses, and glasses in general, you should also make sure that glasses are always in a case, and not hung off clothing where they may fall. The ways to care for and maintain your multifocal lenses by cleaning them, are listed below.
- Gently blow to remove debris: Gently blow on your glasses to remove debris. If this step isn't done, particles may scratch the lens if you rub them in.
-
Spray both sides of the lenses with lens cleaner:
Spray both sides of your glasses with lens cleaner, as both the
inside and outside may be dirty.
- Wipe lenses using a cloth: Wipe lenses in a circular motion, using a soft microfibre cloth. Do not rub back and forth.
Read Multifocal Lenses: Types, Advantages and Disadvantages in other Oscar Wylee regions and their languages.
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