Blog Hero

What Are Progressive Eyeglasses & Why Do I Need Them?

Schedule an Appointment Now
A close-up image of eyeglasses showing the details of how the views in their progressive lenses work.

A traditional eyeglass lens typically corrects vision for a single distance. Progressive eyeglasses offer multifocal point correction lenses that can benefit people who require vision correction for both far and near vision. 

Progressive lenses are a game-changer for many wearers, offering a seamless transition between seeing close-up and distant objects. By the end of this blog, you should understand the advantages that progressive eyeglasses offer, and you should have enough information to talk with your eye doctor about whether progressive lenses are right for you.

The Rise of Progressive Eyeglasses 

Many people find the need for multiple pairs of glasses cumbersome. Enter progressive eyeglasses—a single pair of lenses that caters to multiple vision needs. The increasing popularity of progressives comes from their ability to provide clear vision at varying distances without the visible lines found in traditional bifocals.

Progressive lenses cater to a wide range of visual requirements. So, whether you’re reading, working on a computer, or driving, they can provide meaningful benefits.  There are over a thousand different type of progressives.  Which one is right for you is up to your doctor. 

How Do Progressive Glasses Work?

Progressive lenses stand out in a few ways as having an edge over traditional or bifocal lenses.

Digitally Mastered Lenses

Progressive lenses are the product of modern optical technology. They’re digitally mastered, meaning that advanced digital tools craft the lenses according to your requirements. This technology ensures that each lens provides clear vision at varying distances.

Custom-Made Based on Measurements

These lenses aren’t one-size-fits-all. Rather, they’re custom-made based on individual measurements, including your prescription, pupillary distance, vertex, facial wrap and form, and even the way your frames sit on your face. This level of customization offers excellent comfort and clarity.  The latest progressive require computer measurements and once performed a special code is created for each job and then sent to the lab for finishing

Multifocal & Better Value

With multifocal lenses, progressive glasses offer a seamless transition between varying focal points—near, intermediate, and far. This makes them a better value than traditional bifocals or reading glasses, which typically address only one or two visual needs. You get the convenience of three-in-one, minimizing the need to switch between multiple pairs of glasses.

Benefits of Progressive Glasses

Progressive eyeglasses provide several tangible benefits.

Convenience & Clarity

Imagine the convenience of not having to juggle multiple pairs of glasses throughout the day. Progressive lenses provide a smooth visual experience, allowing you to read a book, work on a computer, and see distant objects clearly, all with one pair of glasses.

Aesthetic Appeal

One of the standout benefits of progressive lenses is their aesthetic appeal. Unlike bifocals or trifocals, progressive lenses have no visible lines. This means you can enjoy a more youthful and modern look without the tell-tale signs of age-related vision problems.

Enhanced Vision

Because they’re customized to your specific needs, progressive lenses often provide better overall vision correction. They reduce the need to tilt your head or move your eyes in unnatural ways, leading to less eye strain and more comfortable vision.

Who Can Benefit from Progressive Glasses?

Progressive eyeglasses aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but a few groups may benefit more than others.

An older adult smiles as they enjoy the vision freedom their new progressive lenses offer.

People with Presbyopia

If you’re over 40 and having difficulty focusing on close objects, you might have presbyopia. Progressive lenses are designed to address this issue, offering a comprehensive solution to your changing vision needs.

Active Professionals

For those who are constantly on the move—switching between reading documents, working on a computer, and attending meetings—progressive lenses offer unmatched flexibility. They allow you to see clearly at all distances without needing to switch glasses.

Tech-Savvy Individuals

Progressive lenses can be particularly beneficial if you spend a lot of time in front of screens. They provide clear vision for reading text on a screen and also for seeing things further away, like presentations or colleagues across the room.

Choosing the Right Progressive Glasses

There are a couple of things to consider before you decide on which frames and lenses you want.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Your daily activities play a significant role in selecting the right progressive lenses. For example, if you’re an avid reader, look for lenses with a larger near-vision zone. If you’re frequently using computers, make sure your lenses have a broad intermediate zone.

Budget Considerations

While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in higher-quality lenses can significantly improve comfort and clarity. Remember that, with progressive lenses, you’re paying for advanced technology and customization that will enhance your daily life.

Professional Eye Exam & Fitting

A comprehensive eye exam is crucial in determining your exact prescription and visual needs. Additionally, choosing professionally fitted frames ensures they sit correctly on your face, maximizing the lenses’ effectiveness.

Schedule an Appointment to Discuss Progressive Eyeglasses

Progressive eyeglasses are more than just a solution for vision correction—they are an investment in your quality of life. From their advanced technology to their aesthetic appeal, these lenses offer numerous benefits that make them worth considering.Call our team and request an appointment with one of our experienced optometrists at Danville Optometric Group if you think progressive eyeglasses might be right for you. We can offer personalized recommendations and help you find a pair of progressive lenses tailored to your needs.

Profile picture of Dr. Gregory Tom

Written by Dr. Gregory Tom

Dr. Tom is committed to providing comprehensive eye care to the people of Danville and prides himself on continuing to enhance his medical skills through education and training.

Graduating with honors in 1989, Dr. Tom earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from UC Berkeley. He continued his education at the UC Berkeley School of Optometry, graduating in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in Physiological Optics, and again in 1994 with a Doctorate in Optometry.

More Articles By Dr. Gregory Tom

Contact Us

Comprehensive Eye Care & Trendy Eyewear

Receive the detailed eye care you deserve and find your next favorite pair of frames by visiting us today! Call us to book an appointment.

Where to Park?

We’re located in Tassajara Crossing, with plenty of parking available. You can access us from Camino Tassajara or Center Way.

Our Address

  • 3464 Camino Tassajara
  • Danville, CA 94506

Contact Information

Hours Of Operation

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM 1:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

*Closed weekdays for lunch 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM.

Our Gallery

instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax