In my opinion, computer lenses are the most under-prescribed type of ophthalmic lens.
What is a "computer lens"?
- A lens designed with progressive viewing distances but optimized for intermediate distance.
- Increased intermediate and near, but decreased distance area.
- Designed to avoid patients having to tilt chin up and down throughout the day
- May provide a solution for Visual Fatigue Syndrome (Visual Fatigue Syndrome is focusing on a target 1-3 ft away for an extended period of time)
- Ideal for heavy use of iPads, Kindles, etc.
- Perfect for the presbyope who complains of tired eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck and shoulder pain
What differentiates computer lenses from progressives?
- The intermediate channel is widened to decrease head and eye movement
- Allows ease of use for simultaneous viewing of multiple monitors or viewing at multiple distances
- Easier adaptation for patients due to less peripheral "swim"
- More specialized for functional tasks vs. day to day use
- Patients are unable to drive with computer lenses
What is the benefit of computer lenses over readers?
- Patient has multiple viewing distances within the lenses making computer lenses more functional.
- Allows for limited distance viewing but ideal in certain circumstances like viewing a menu and dining partner simultaneously or talking to a colleague across a conference table.
- Adaptation is easier, decreasing swim effect when taking readers on and off.
- Ability to view your keyboard, monitor, and paperwork simultaneously.
- I describe over the counter readers as a "one size fits all" hat. They are a compromise and never fit perfectly!
Who is a good candidate?
- Do they already own progressives, but express difficulty with computer use?
- What is the patient's occupation? What do they spend their time doing throughout the day?
- How is their desk arrangement set up at work? At home?
- Do they use a laptop? Desktop? Both? Simultaneously?
- Do they spend time in conferences? Meetings? View powerpoint presentations?
- Are they involved in sales? Spend time interacting with clients?
- Do they have any neck or back problems?
- Do they have to enter data into a computer? This indicates need for multiple distances.
- Do they complain about any difficulty with distance? Any difficulty with driving at night?
- Do they own progressives, but prefer over the counter readers for computer use?
- Personality-wise, any indications they may have difficulty adapting to a progressive lens?
How do I prescribe Essilor computer lenses?
- Distance Rx - B measurement must be greater than 30 in order for patients to get entire distance Rx
- Reading ADD
- Fitting height (Must be at least 15 mm)
- Monocular Distance PDs
All Essilor Computer lenses include your choice of Premium or Value AR treatment.