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Bifocal lenses

Bifocals are multifocal lenses with two distinct separate optical sections. Effectively they are two separate lenses joined together.
The main part of the lens, is generally used for long distance, while the smaller section is generally used for reading.

Bifocal lenses are useful for people who need glasses for two distinct distances such as long distance and reading. The two parts of the lens don’t always have to be for long distance and reading.

Depending on the needs of the person, they might be long distance at the top with an intermediate distance segment at the bottom. Lorry drivers who need to see their instruments at arm’s length might find these useful. People who spend a lot of time at a desk might prefer an intermediate correction as the main lens.

Bifocals lenses offer a wide and stable field of view and are generally cheaper to buy than varifocals. However, there is a distinct change of focus when looking from the main part of the lens to the reading segment and this doesn’t suit everybody.
 
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Varifocals

Modern varifocals, also known as progressive lenses, are an evolution from bifocal lenses.

They generally have three areas of vision within a single lens that provide continuous vision with a smooth transition between all three areas.
Long distance at the top
Reading at the bottom
Intermediate in the middle

As a result, they have an element of distortion at the edges. Higher-quality (and more expensive) lenses manage the distortion better by moving it further towards the edge of the lens which provides a greater field of vision.

It can be difficult for people with stronger prescriptions to adapt to varifocals. There is a great range of progressive lenses and choosing the best ones for your prescription and your requirements can be a difficult decision.

Here is a comparison showing the difference a Bifocal lens and a Varifocal lens side by side.

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