What are Bifocals?

Bifocal lenses also called Franklin and split bifocals, was first invented by Benjamin Franklin in the 18th century.The meaning of bifocal lenses are a type of eyeglasses lenses that are designed to provide clear vision at two distinct distances: near and far. They are typically prescribed to individuals who have difficulty seeing clearly both up close (e.g., reading) and at a distance (e.g., driving or watching TV). Bifocal lenses are particularly useful for individuals with presbyopia, a common age-related condition that affects the eye’s ability to focus on near objects.

How Do Bifocal Lenses Work?

Two Prescriptions in One: Bifocal lenses incorporate two different prescription powers within a single lens. The upper portion of the lens is designed for distance vision, while the lower portion is intended for near vision. The transition between these two areas is usually marked by a visible line on the lens.

Distance Vision (Top Portion)

The top portion of the bifocal lens contains the prescription for distance vision. This allows individuals to see objects in the distance clearly, such as road signs or the whiteboard in a classroom.

Near Vision (Lower Portion)

The lower portion of the lens has a stronger prescription for near work like reading, using a smartphone, or working on a computer. This area helps individuals focus on objects that are within arm’s length.

How Do Bifocal Lenses Work?

Two Prescriptions in One: Bifocal lenses incorporate two different prescription powers within a single lens. The upper portion of the lens is designed for distance vision, while the lower portion is intended for near vision. The transition between these two areas is usually marked by a visible line on the lens.

Distance Vision (Top Portion)

The top portion of the bifocal lens contains the prescription for distance vision. This allows individuals to see objects in the distance clearly, such as road signs or the whiteboard in a classroom.

Near Vision (Lower Portion)

The lower portion of the lens has a stronger prescription for near work like reading, using a smartphone, or working on a computer. This area helps individuals focus on objects that are within arm’s length.

Types of Bifocal Lenses

There are several types of bifocal lenses available to address the vision needs of individuals who require correction for both near and distance vision. These bifocal lenses types vary in design and the way they transition between the two prescription powers.

Flat Top Bifocal

Flat top bifocal lenses have a visible horizontal line that separates the distance prescription (upper portion) from the near prescription (lower portion). The near prescription segment is typically flat-topped or “D”-shaped, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “D-segment” bifocals. 

Round Top Bifocal

Round top bifocal lenses are similar to flat top bifocal lenses, but difference with a flat top segment, they have a rounded shape for the near-vision portion. These bifocals also have a visible line that delineates the two prescription powers.

Blended Bifocal

Blended bifocals, is also called the invisible bifocals. This bifocal lens design is cosmetically the best looking lens of all the bifocals, showing virtually no sign of a segment. However, there is a 1 to 2mm blending range between the segment power and the lens prescription. 

Types of Bifocal Lenses

There are several types of bifocal lenses available to address the vision needs of individuals who require correction for both near and distance vision. These bifocal lenses types vary in design and the way they transition between the two prescription powers.

Flat Top Bifocal

Flat top bifocal lenses have a visible horizontal line that separates the distance prescription (upper portion) from the near prescription (lower portion). The near prescription segment is typically flat-topped or “D”-shaped, which is why they are sometimes referred to as “D-segment” bifocals. 

Round Top Bifocal

Round top bifocal lenses are similar to flat top bifocal lenses, but difference with a flat top segment, they have a rounded shape for the near-vision portion. These bifocals also have a visible line that delineates the two prescription powers.

Blended Bifocal

Blended bifocals, is also called the invisible bifocals. This bifocal lens design is cosmetically the best looking lens of all the bifocals, showing virtually no sign of a segment. However, there is a 1 to 2mm blending range between the segment power and the lens prescription. 

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        Frequently Asked Questions

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        Bifocal lenses and progressive lenses are both types of eyeglasses lenses designed to provide multiple prescription strengths in a single pair of glasses. Bifocals have a distinct line separating the prescriptions, difference with progressive lenses provide a continuous, no-line transition between near and far vision.

        We also can provide bifocal transition lenses, sunglasses with bifocal reading lenses, bifocal lenses without lines(progressive lenses) etc.

        Yes, we offer customization options for bifocal lenses. We can tailor personalized designs to meet your specific requirements, including astigmatism prescription, lens materials, and coatings. Please contact our sales team for more information on customized bifocal lenses.

        Our bifocal lenses undergo rigorous quality control and testing to ensure they meet international quality standards. We use high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to deliver outstanding optical performance and durability. Our products go through multiple inspection stages to ensure each lens maintains high quality and reliability.

        Our bifocal lenses are competitively priced and offer bulk order discounts. Pricing varies based on order quantity and collaboration history, and we provide personalized pricing schemes. Please reach out to our sales team for detailed pricing information and discount policies.