Multifocal contact lenses include different prescription strengths in a single contact lens, to correct presbyopia, an age-related loss of ability to focus at near.
This ACUVUE® guide outlines what multifocal contact lenses are, who they may suit, and how their design can support vision at different distances.
Multifocal contact lenses (also called varifocal contact lenses) are designed to support presbyopia by incorporating multiple prescriptions within a single contact lens to help support vision across varying ranges.
They’re designed to help with close-up tasks like reading, mid-range activities such as watching TV, or distant vision options like driving, all in a single pair of contact lenses.
Multifocal and varifocal contact lenses are essentially the same thing; the names are used interchangeably to describe contact lenses that correct near, intermediate, and distance vision.
With age, natural changes occur in the eye, which may reduce your ability to focus on near objects.
You may notice certain changes in your vision that could make multifocal contact lenses suitable, including:
The time needed to adapt to multifocal contact lenses can vary from person to person, with some adjusting within a few days, whilst others may need slightly longer.
This is because multifocal contact lenses have multiple prescription zones, so the brain may need time to adjust to processing the images. It’s advisable to follow guidance from your Eye Care Professional and seek further advice if you experience ongoing discomfort or visual issues.
Multifocal contact lenses offer a range of benefits compared to glasses. These include:
Multifocal contact lenses are designed to support vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges within a single contact lens. Whether using a phone, working at a screen, or driving, they can help the eyes transition more comfortably between tasks.
Because multifocal contact lenses sit directly on the eye, they move naturally with eye movement, which can support a more continuous field of vision during tasks.
Multifocal contact lenses typically won’t slip, fog up in winter, or get wet in the rain. This can make them beneficial for sports or exercise, where glasses might break or obstruct your vision.
By incorporating more than one prescription in a single contact lens, multifocal contact lenses offer a full field of vision with just one pair of contact lenses.
Multifocal contact lenses are often considered as good as glasses – if not better in some instances. Their unique design offers a wider, more natural field of view for seamless vision at every distance. Without the need to swap between glasses, multifocal contact lenses could also work better for people with active lifestyles.
Multifocal contact lenses are available in daily and monthly replacement options. Daily contact lenses are discarded after each use, while monthly contact lenses require regular cleaning and care as advised by your Eye Care Professional.
ACUVUE® offers a contact lens suitable for presbyopia and astigmatism: ACUVUE® OASYS MAX 1 – Day MULTIFOCAL for ASTIGMATISM , which incorporate toric features alongside multiple prescription zones to support both conditions.
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Important information for contact lens wearers: ACUVUE® Contact Lenses can be used for vision correction. An Eye Care Professional will determine whether contact lenses are right for you. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. To help avoid these problems, follow the wear and replacement schedule and instructions on proper lens care. Do not wear contact lenses if you have an eye infection, any eye disease or systemic disease that may affect the eye, or if you are allergic to any ingredients. If you experience eye discomfort, excessive tearing, vision changes, redness or other eye problems, remove the lens and contact your Eye Care Professional immediately. For detailed information on proper wear, care, warnings and precautions, talk to your Eye Care Professional and carefully read the Instructions for Use available on the Johnson & Johnson website https://www.e-ifu.com/
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