In this day and age, there are more lens material options than ever before. At Dr. Tavel, we offer a wide variety of lens choices including but not limited to plastic, polycarbonate, trivex, hi-index plastic (HIP) and even glass.
Plastic Lenses, also know as Regular Lenses or CR-39, are the most commonly used lens material today. From a historical perspective, this material came about over 60 years ago and quickly replaced glass as the material of choice for those wearing eye glasses. Plastic can be made in just about every prescription and is able to be tinted in just about any color.
Polycarbonate lenses are much lighter and thinner than plastic lenses. With 100 percent UV protection and high impact resistance, these lenses are a great upgrade over plastic lenses, especially for children’s eyewear and safety glasses. These lenses are made out of similar material to “bulletproof glass” so it is obvious to see why this is a great material for young children and the ultimate safety of their eyes.
Trivex Lenses are another lightweight material that is designed slightly different than polycarbonate and adds a slightly better visual acuity than polycarbonate. With the strength and impact resistance of Trivex Lenses, these are great choice for those patients who want a semi-rimless or drill mount frame. Like polycarbonate, Trivex lenses block 100% of the sun’s UV rays.
High-Index Lenses have thinner edges than regular plastic and are ideal for patients with a high nearsighted prescription. Since the edges are thinner, these lenses are not only going to look better, but they will also be lighter and thus more comfortable for the patient.
Unlike conventional lenses, where the front surface has the same curve all the way across, aspheric lenses have a front surface that gradually changes as it moves from the center to the edges. This is ideal for patients that are farsighted, as it slims out the lens, reducing the center thickness for a better look and a more comfortable wear. Combine this design with a high-index lens to create the ideal lens for you.
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