There are many new developments in spectacle lens technology. Thinner, lighter lenses and a variety of lens coatings. New types of light sensitive lenses and brilliant technology that allows us to individually design and tailor make a lens for maximum efficiency, vision and comfort. And lots more – all designed to improve your vision and make your spectacles more comfortable to wear.

As independent optometrists, we are free to select the best lenses from any manufacturer. This means we can offer you a wider choice together with a personal service that caters for your particular requirements, lifestyle and budget.

When you visit our practice we will discuss your needs and advise you of the best options, without obligation. In the meantime, this page outlines the main points to consider when choosing lenses for your spectacles.

Coatings to protect your lenses and your vision

Scratch resistant

Most people in the UK choose plastic lenses because they are lighter than glass and less likely to break. However, plastic scratches more easily than glass. So to prolong the life of the lenses, we recommend a scratch-resistant coating.

Anti-reflection

Removing reflections from the surface of the lens has several advantages; firstly your vision will be better. Also, people can see your eyes more clearly as there are no distracting reflections to get in the way of eye contact. This can help in many environments such as working in a sales environment, where it is important to gain the trust of your customers, or if you like to have your photo taken, the flash wont be as noticeable.

An anti-reflection coating also reduces the glare of headlights when driving at night, so your eyes will feel less strained.  So whether your are the passenger, or the driver, when you do get to where your are going, you should feel far more comfortable and relaxed.

The anti-reflection coating can be combined with a scratch resistant coating for optimum lens performance and durability.

Tints and Filters

Excessive exposure to the sun's ultra violet rays can be harmful to your eyes and may cause long term damage. If you are at risk then a UV filter for your lenses is advisable. A wide choice of tints is also available to reduce the amount of light getting to your eyes and to make your vision more comfortable.

Thinner light-weight lenses

New Hi-Index materials mean that your lenses can be made much thinner, lighter and better looking. This is particularly the case if you need to wear a high prescription. No longer will you have to wear thick, ugly lenses and there will be a greater choice of frames that you can choose from.

Don't forget either; you can use our video system to see what you look like with your new frames and the thinner lenses. Just ask when you come in to choose your frame and discuss the lens options.

Varifocals: More than just bifocals without the line

If you need both far and near glasses, then you are probably a presbyope; a normal condition that many people experience in their mid-forties onwards.

One solution is to have different pairs of glasses for reading and distance or computer screens. Although this does have its benefits, it can also be inconvenient. Another option is bifocals, but they have a sudden change of focus and an obvious line across the lens, which can seem to add on the years in your appearance.

Varifocals, often referred to as progressive lenses, are becoming increasingly our first choice. Because they have a gradual change in the optical power, there is no jump between your near and distance vision. As a result progressive lenses give much better vision in the middle distance compared to bifocals as well as looking more attractive as there is no line across the lens.

The latest technology lenses are to be seen to be believed. Each lens is tailor made. We take into consideration how far the frame is from your face, the angle it makes, how much curve there is on the frame and your own preferences for working distances before designing the lens to maximise the field of view, clarity and comfort for your new spectacles. We only use the best products and the results really show.

Modified reading glasses

There are now reading glasses which allow you a the ability to view things a bit further away, like a computer screen, or a client behind a desk. This type of lens is not the same as a varifocal, but shares some of the benefits, while generally having a far larger area dedicated to reading. We have a demonstration kit to allow you to get an idea of how this lens will suit you, so please ask us when you visit.

VDU lenses

If you use a computer regularly and experience eyestrain, you may benefit from spectacles designed for VDU use only. Under European legislation you could be entitled to an eye test and VDU glasses paid for by your employer. We'll be happy to give you further details of the different schemes available.

 
Light sensitive lenses

If you are sensitive to light and do not want to swap between spectacles and sunglasses then photo chromic lenses are ideal. These darken according to the amount of sunlight, so you can enjoy comfortable vision both indoors and outdoors. The latest version of these popular lenses are even faster to darken and fade and are made of lightweight plastic and can be fitted to a large selection of fashion frames. We claim they are the fastest on the market. Anti-reflection coatings can also be applied to these lenses along with a scratch resistant coating to make your investment last longer. These lenses are available in glass, but plastic is by far the more popular option.

Safety

If your job or hobby requires extra protection from your lenses, polycarbonate is probably the answer. Ten times stronger than ordinary plastic, polycarbonate lenses are virtually unbreakable. They are ideal for children as well as for activities and sports such as squash, cricket and tennis.

If your workplace has areas where safety equipment must be worn, then you may be entitled to safety glasses supplied by your workplace.

We offer a corporate scheme to help reduce the costs while still ensuring the best Eyecare. Please ask for details.
 
Quality, value and the best advice at all times.

We are always going to offer you the best advice so that you leave the practice with spectacles that look great and are comfortable to wear. We choose manufacturers that offer us the best guarantees so if there are ever any problems, we can deal with it promptly.