Your guide to varifocal lenses

Varifocals allow you to see clearly at all distances with one pair of glasses without the hassle of switching between multiple pairs of glasses, this is usually advised for presbyopes. 

The prescription in varifocal lenses gradually progresses from distance vision, to near vision. Allowing you to see clearly for distance, near and everything in between! The intermediate vision is particularly important for those requiring glasses correction at arms length, this includes computer use. 

Wearing varifocals for the first time can be a daunting experience. We've all heard the stories; they make you feel dizzy, you have to keep moving your head around, and it takes forever to get used to them!

Here are a few helpful tips to help you to adapt to varifocals:
  1.  Make sure the frames fit well. If you glasses slip down you may find yourself looking through the wrong section of the varifocals. If you feel your glasses are not fitting well, visit us for an adjustment or visit a  local opticians and we’re sure they would be happy to help.
  2. Initially, you will find the varifocals strange, particularly when climbing stairs or stepping on a curb, they may appear higher than usual. Take your time to get used to them, but keep persevering and you will soon adjust to them.
  3. When reading it's generally natural to tilt you head down, however with varifocals it is important to remember to try and keep your head straight and look downwards through the bottom of the lens.
  4. Due to the way varifocal lenses are designed you may get some areas of soft focus in your peripheral vision. You will need to turn your head in the direction you want to see when looking from side to side - this is particularly important when driving. 
  5. We advise getting used to new varifocals in a familiar setting, wearing them around the house is best, particularly before driving in them or walking on uneven surfaces. 
Following these tips will get you used to wearing varifocals - however should you have any problems, we're always here to help! 

Please note that varifocal lenses are not available to order online as precise measurements need to be taken to ensure you get the maximum benefits and vision from a varifocal lens.