We live in an increasingly digital world. Digital technology plays a part in almost every aspect of our daily lives. It is not surprising that this same technology has also affected the optical industry and the way lenses are fabricated. Digital lenses, while often referred to by the brand of lens, are not actually the lens itself but the process in which the lens is constructed.
While standard lenses start as a semi-finished pre-molded lens, a lens created by digital technology uses software to create a “customized” design for each patient. Considerations include the specifics of the prescription, the way the frame fits, and sometimes even eye movement patterns. This often results in more definition and greater peripheral vision.
Digital lenses can come in many forms. They can be single cision, anti-fatigue, or progressive. Every lens manufacturer has at least one digital lens design that fits into each of these categories and each design has their own specific benefits. An optician will be able to direct you to the digital lens design that can best fit your individual needs.
Having the ability to customize the lens has many benefits. The precise, custom measurements allow nice, crisp vision and eliminates the maximum amount of distortion. This is because the power is put where you need it, based on your measurements in the frame that you have chosen. This results in lenses that are six times more accurate to your prescription than with traditionally surfaced lenses. In progressive lenses, digital surfacing can provide up to a 20 percent wider field of view. Since your eyes work harder looking up close then they do looking far away, having digital anti-fatigue lenses, the digital addition of power to assist with your devices can help with digital eye strain.
We are proud to announce that as of January 10, together with Essilor, VBA will be offering a new progressive lens: InfiniView.
InfiniView lenses offer a full back side lens design that creates a softer, more symmetrical design for enhanced visual experience. What else does InfiniView offer?
- Tailoring to individual Rx requirements
- Essilor Back Side Optics Equalizer technology
- A symmetrical, soft design that relocates astigmatism
- Patented Visual Acuity Booster℠ technology to optimize vision
InfiniView lenses are available through Essilor labs
About the Author
Kara Walsh, ABOC
Provider Relations Supervisor
Kara came on board with VBA as a Provider Relations Coordinator in March of 2016, and began her role as Provider Relations Supervisor in August. She has been in the optical industry since 2011, and is an ABO Certified Optician. Kara has a strong passion for the industry and makes a point to stay current on new lens technology and fashion. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies, with a Communications focus, from Clarion University.
As the Provider Relations Supervisor, Kara is responsible for coordinating, training and providing ongoing support for participating providers. She also oversees and supports the Provider Relations department, manages medically necessary authorization requests and develops relationships with leading industry labs and providers.
Kara grew up just north of Pittsburgh and currently resides in the south hills of Pittsburgh with her husband, sons, and wheaten terrier, Annie. As an active member of her community, Kara serves on her community’s recreation board. She also loves to travel and enjoys the theater.
