As the number of people 40 years old increases, so does the need for contact lenses that correct both the distance and near vision. Until recently, there have been bifocal contact lenses that have attempted to deal with this problem, but have fallen very short. The introduction of Bifocal disposable contacts has further complicated this issue. While these lenses are convenient with regard to replacement, the poor optics most often results in less then happy patients. They usually create a great deal of glare, and poor vision at distance, near or both.
Recent improvements in the quality of non disposable, multifocal contact lenses has resulted in a vast increase in the quality of the vision in the distance and near, better comfort and little or no glare at night. The combination of spherical and aspheric curves and thinner edge design has vastly improved all aspects of patient satisfaction with multifocal contact lenses.
The level of expertise and time required for fitting these contacts is much greater then the simple disposables and thus requires an Optometrist that has much more experience and is willing to spend the time required. Our office fits many of these lenses per day and has the answers to the difficult questions that arise when fitting the lenses.
We have patients coming all the way from Europe and South America to be fit with these contacts because of our high success rate. We are constantly researching new developments in this field and modify our fitting philosophy based on the most current information available.
Dr. Jay Stockman O.D. is a practicing doctor for New York Vision Associates and a prolific write. Visit newyorkvisionassociates for more information.