Memorial Eye

                            Doctors of Optometry

Experts in EyeCare    

For people in their early 40's who begin to experience difficulty with near vision, Varilux progressive lenses provide benefits unlike any other lens of its kind. It is the most prescribed progressive lens in the world for a number of reasons.

Although the lens appears to be an ordinary "single prescription" lens, it allows clear vision not only for far and near distances, but every mid-range distance in between.

A common problem with most progressive lenses is the distorted optics that are present just outside the "near channel". For many, this can create a feeling of tunnel vision. Varilux lenses are renowned for the patented technology that greatly softens the lens periphery. This allows eyes to sweep more smoothly throughout the lens, and improves peripheral vision.

Varilux lenses are available with a variety of options that can be highly customized to fit individual lifestyle needs.

"Transitions" brand photochromics offer the most advanced technology of any other type of photochromic lens. They can become as dark as sunglasses, and change back to clear lenses indoors faster than any other photochromic, even in warmer climates, where this was previously a problem.

Transitions lenses are available in both grey and brown tints, and provide 100% UV protection. They are also offered in thinner and lighter lens materials. These lenses are available in many different lens styles, including Varilux progressives. This lens is highly versatile and is great for busy people on the go.

Working with computers has become unavoidable in both work and home environments. While they provide incredible conveniences, spending any length of time at a computer station can create a whole host of visual problems. New, specialized spectacle lenses are available that alleviate the specific problems associated with computer use, which can include dry, tired eyes, muscle strain, headache, and neck and shoulder strain.

Crizal Alizé anti-reflective lenses actually improve visual acuity by more than 10%. This is made possible because both external and internal sources of glare, which interfere with vision, are virtually eliminated. External sources of glare include computer monitors and headlights at night, while internal reflections are an inherent part of any optical lens.

The result is increased eye comfort, visual sharpness, as well as the elimination of reflections that block people from being able to see a spectacle wearer's eyes behind the lenses.

Polarized lenses are the ultimate sun lenses. A polarized lens is not a tint; rather, a process is employed by which a special film is sealed between two separate sheets of lens material. This achieves a lens that offers the highest in reduction of glare, while maintaining color contrast and improved depth perception. Driving and any outdoor activity can be enjoyed to the fullest with the aid of polarized lenses. They are available in brown and grey.

Polycarbonate lenses are superior to old-fashioned plastic lenses for a number of reasons. Polycarbonate lenses are up to 43% lighter, 35% thinner, and 45% flatter than traditional plastic lenses. Further, polycarbonate lenses naturally provide 100% protection from harmful UV light. When compared to other lens materials, polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable, and therefore unmatched in safety for work or sports. Overall, polycarbonate lenses have characteristics that can provide an ideal combination for comfort, cosmetic apperance, and protection.

When hi-index material, which is 50% thinner than ordinary plastic, is designed as an "aspheric" lens, an even thinner, more lightweight lens with superior optics is generated. This is a great option for those with very stringent visual demands.

When light strikes a scratch on a lens, it can no longer be focused. Because the light becomes scattered, glare and reflection are created, and sight can be seriously hindered. A scratch resistance coating is an absolute must for a spectacle lens. No lens is ever "scratch-proof", and in order for a lens to retain its scratch resistance, it must be cared for properly. Lenses must never be wiped clean while dry, and cotton cloths should be used, while paper products (which contain wood fiber) should always be avoided.

Many of today's frame styles are designed for minimal appearance and to enhance facial features. Lenses with polished edges are less visible and are necessary to complete a finished look.

Protection from UV is a must for anyone who spends any time outdoors. There are times when sunglasses may not be readily available, but 100% UV protection form harmful UV rays can be maintained with clear lenses that are made with an ultraviolet filter. Many harmful eye problems, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygia and pengueculae, can be avoided with this basic lens option.

A very easy way to enhance the look of glasses is with the use of a tint. The entertainment industry has used tints very effectively as a way to accessorize and complete a fashion look. Aside from just looking good, tints also serve a very practical purpose by enhancing vision. Different tint colors enhance vision in different ways. The following short sample show how various tints achieve different visual results: