Having single vision lenses means that a single corrective prescription is applied to the entire lens in your glasses. This distributes focus evenly across the entire surface area, as opposed to multifocal lenses that have several prescription zones in the one lens.
This means that your glasses are designed to correct a single type of vision problem, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. It also means that you’re likely to wear your glasses in a single or similar context. For example, focusing on objects nearby, whether that’s your book or the sewing machine. These same glasses would not be suitable for focusing on objects in the distance, such as when driving, as this would require a different prescription.
Various materials can be used to create single vision lenses, making them versatile and easily able to match your preferences. They can also be paired with our innovative slim and fit lens option that provides one of the thinnest lens types available. Additionally, these lenses can be treated with various coatings, such as scratch-resistant or blue light filter coatings, to increase their durability and improve their optical properties. Compared to multifocal lenses, single vision lenses typically have lower distortion, which enhances visual clarity. Furthermore, adjusting them to accommodate changes in prescription is a straightforward process.
The best way to know if single-vision lenses are right for you is through an eye exam with our eye care professionals, who will run through your results and therefore your unique lens prescription needs.
Some factors you and your optometrist will discuss when it comes to your single vision lenses may include:
- Lens thickness: your single vision lens thickness will depend on several factors, such as the strength of your prescription, the size and shape of the frame, and the type of lens material used
- Lens design: there are several different designs of single vision lenses, including spherical, aspheric, and atoric. Spherical lenses are the most common type and have a constant curve across the entire surface of the lens. Aspheric lenses have a more gradual curvature and can provide clearer vision with less distortion, especially for people with higher prescriptions. Atoric lenses are similar to aspheric lenses but have a more complex surface shape, which can provide even better vision quality.
- Transition lenses: single vision lenses can also be made with transition technology, which allows the lenses to darken automatically in response to sunlight and lighten back up indoors. This can be a convenient feature for people who frequently move between indoor and outdoor environments.
- Blue light filter: single vision lenses can also be made with blue light filtering technology, which can reduce the amount of blue light absorbed from digital screens and other electronic devices. This can help reduce eye strain and fatigue caused by prolonged screen use.
- Sport-specific lenses: single vision lenses can also be made for specific sports, such as swimming or skiing. These lenses are typically made from shatter-resistant materials and can provide added protection from glare and UV rays.
To learn more about single vision lenses or get your optical prescription from an optometrist, book your annual eye exam at our Victoria and South Australia clinics by selecting your preferred location here.