Types of Glasses

Types of Glasses

Wearing eyeglasses is an easy way to get the vision correction you need while choosing something fashionable and stylish. And, while glasses are common, it's important to know that not all glasses are alike. Before you head out to your next eye appointment, read on to learn more about the different types of glasses and what they can mean for you.

Types of Prescription Lenses

The most important part of eyeglasses is the type of lenses they have since this is what determines how well you see whenever you wear them. Here are the main types of prescription lenses and what they do for different vision problems:

• Single Vision: These lenses are the most common type, and they provide the largest field of vision. Single vision lenses are made to correct vision at one specific distance (either near or far). Most patients with astigmatism or those who are either near or farsighted will receive a single vision prescription.
• Bifocals: This type of lens has two different sections to correct distance vision and near vision. Most people who receive these lenses have multiple issues such as myopia (nearsightedness) and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).
• Trifocals: Trifocal lenses have an extra "power" in the prescription designed to correct intermediate vision. This can be used to help you see a computer screen more clearly, with a different vision in each section of the lens.
• Progressive: If you need bifocals or trifocals, consider progressives. This type of lens helps with a variety of vision issues without the use of lines separating each section. Progressive lenses can make transitioning from one field of vision to the next smoother and easier.

Frame Materials and Types

Of course, your glasses frames are also important since they determine how your new glasses will look and fit. Here are some examples of frame materials and styles of glasses:

• Plastic: These frames can be made of acetate or another form of plastic, and they're very lightweight and come in a variety of colors and styles. They cost less than metal frames, but they're also less durable.
• Metal: Glasses made of metal can include titanium, beryllium, or aluminum, just to name a few. Metal frames are much more durable than plastic, but can also be more expensive and may cause skin reactions in some people.
• Full Frame: Full frame glasses feature a frame that completely surrounds the lenses. They're the most durable option, and this style tends to work best for those who require thick lenses.
• Semi-Rimless Frame: Glasses with this type of frame have material covering the top portion of the lens. They're quite comfortable to wear, but they can also make your lenses more vulnerable to chips or cracks.
• Rimless Frame: Rimless glasses give you the biggest and best field of vision, and they're the most lightweight. This frame style holds each lens together by the bridge in the center, making them a lot more delicate and prone to breakage.