High Index Glasses for Myopia: What You Should Know
Updated: Nov 6, 2024
So, you’ve been told you need high index lenses for your myopia? Or maybe you’ve heard the term and are curious about what it means. Either way, let’s enter into the world of high index glasses for myopia, and I’ll answer all your burning questions along the way.
What Are High Index Lenses?
First things first, let’s break it down: high index lenses are specially designed for people with stronger prescriptions—like those with moderate to severe myopia (nearsightedness). Myopia means you have trouble seeing things clearly at a distance, so you need glasses that help refocus light onto your retina.
But here’s the kicker: regular lenses for strong prescriptions can be thick and heavy. This is where high index lenses come in. They are thinner and lighter than standard lenses, making them much more comfortable to wear and aesthetically pleasing. If you’ve ever worn glasses with thick, Coke-bottle-like lenses, high index lenses are a huge upgrade!
How Do High Index Lenses Work?
Now, I know what you're thinking: "How do thinner lenses still correct strong myopia?" Great question!
It all boils down to the refractive index of the material used in the lenses. The higher the refractive index, the better the lens can bend light, which means you need less material to achieve the same level of correction.
Regular plastic lenses usually have a refractive index around 1.50, but high index lenses can range from 1.60 to 1.74 or even higher. The higher the number, the thinner the lens for the same prescription.
Why Choose High Index Lenses for Myopia?
Let’s talk about why high index lenses are often recommended for myopia. Here’s why they’re awesome:
Thinner Lenses: Myopia prescriptions generally result in thicker lenses, especially on the edges. High index lenses are significantly thinner, making them less bulky and reducing that “bug-eyed” look people sometimes get with strong glasses.
Lighter Weight: If your lenses are thick, they can get heavy, which isn’t comfortable, especially if you wear glasses all day. High index lenses are lighter, which makes them more comfortable on your nose and ears.
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