The Evolution of Lens Correction for Presbyopia

With digital device use accelerating near vision strain and patients seeking spectacle independence earlier, today’s presbyopic population is more active, demanding, and diverse than ever before. As clinicians, we must evolve with this population and their expectations. Fortunately, today’s multifocal contact lens technology boasts smarter designs, improved comfort, and easier fitting protocols. In this article, I’ll recap and explore the latest offerings in this category—and how to find success with them.

MULTIFOCAL CONTACT LENS INNOVATIONS

The Clariti 1 day multifocal contact lens (CooperVision) was designed with the goal of simplifying multifocal fits. It incorporates the company’s Binocular Progressive System, which is intended to optimize vision for all levels of presbyopia, and WetLoc Technology to attract and retain moisture. The lenses offer an expanded power range (+8.00 D to -12.00 D) to increase patient eligibility.

The Infuse One-Day Multifocal contact lens (Bausch + Lomb) was created using a proprietary ProBalance Technology that proactively supports the ocular surface and incorporates a combination of electrolytes, moisturizers, and osmoprotectants into the lens matrix to combat contact lens dryness and maintain ocular surface homeostasis. The 3-Zone Progressive Design promotes a seamless transition across near, intermediate, and distance vision while optimizing seven biometrics: pupil size, subjective refraction, higher-order aberrations, residual accommodation, corneal topography and diameter, anterior chamber depth, and axial length.¹ The lens is designed to offer a more precise visual outcome for each patient.

The Dailies Total1 Multifocal Contact Lens (Alcon) and Total30 Multifocal Contact Lens (Alcon) both have a core made up of silicone hydrogel and a surface that transitions into a hydrogel-like layer that is nearly 100% water. The Total30 Multifocal is the first and only monthly lens with Water Gradient technology. Both lenses incorporate Alcon’s proprietary SmarTears Technology, which releases phosphatidylcholine, a naturally occurring component of human tears that helps stabilize the lipid layer of the tear film.

The Acuvue Oasys MAX 1-Day multifocal lens (Johnson & Johnson Vision) combines a pupil-optimized design with TearStable Technology to improve the consistency and quality of vision.² Designed with today’s screen-centric lifestyle in mind, this lens helps reduce light scatter and visual fatigue, particularly in low-light or digitally intense environments.³ What sets this lens apart is the OptiBlue Light Filter, designed to reduce light scatter and block blue-violet light. The TearStable Technology enhances moisture retention by evenly distributing wetting agents uniformly throughout the lens matrix to better maintain hydration and tear film stability. The company plans to expand the lens line to include an astigmatism indication.

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Fitting multifocal contact lenses has historically intimidated many practitioners due to adaptation challenges and patient dissatisfaction, but that’s changing. To better understand how multifocal lens fitting plays out in real-world examination lanes and clinics, I turned to my colleagues and asked them a few questions about their experiences.

Optometrists frequently cite unrealistic patient expectations as a barrier to success. Those I spoke with widely agreed that fitting success hinges on setting realistic expectations early. As one OD advised, “Underpromise and overdeliver.” Rather than aiming for perfect acuity, many clinicians place more of an emphasis on functional near vision.

This shift toward clarity and practicality was reflected in the responses I received. While preferred lenses varied, common themes emerged around comfort, simplicity, and real-world success. What mattered most wasn’t necessarily the brand, but how well the lens aligned with patient needs and how successfully it could be fit. Some brands earn praise for comfort and dry eye compatibility, while others are favored for their add options and versatility. Take the time to learn what is most important to each of your patients.

BUSINESS IMPLICATIONS

There is value in discussing contact lens options with every patient who is presbyopic, even if they are not ready today. These conversations lay the groundwork for future interest by normalizing the topic.

Multifocal success can be a powerful driver of growth. Patients with presbyopia are typically willing to invest in premium lenses that improve convenience and quality of life for them and, in turn, increase practice revenue for their eye doctor. Standing out as a confident, trusted expert in multifocal lens fitting positions your practice as a sought-after destination. And, perhaps most importantly, happy presbyopes are loyal presbyopes.

EMBRACE AND EVOLVE

Today’s multifocal contact lenses are smarter, more adaptable, and more versatile than ever. With improved designs, new clinical applications, and easier fitting protocols, now is the time to reengage with this modality. The technology behind multifocal lenses is constantly evolving, reflecting the future of presbyopic care.