How do Multifocal Contact Lenses Work?

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:

• Blurry vision at near distances: Struggling to read small print, books, menus, or your smartphone screen.

• Need for brighter lighting: Difficulty reading in low-light environments, such as restaurants.
• Difficulty switching focus: Delay in adjusting vision when switching between close-up and distant objects.
• Struggling with reading: Holding reading material at arm’s length, referred to as ‘short arm syndrome.’
• Frequent eye strain and headaches: Experiencing headaches, sore or tired eyes after reading or prolonged close-up work.

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:

• Clear vision at different distances: 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.

• Stable, natural vision: 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. 

• Ideal for active lifestyles: 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.

• No need for multiple eyewear: 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.