Multifocal Contact Lenses: Clear Vision at All Distances

Are There Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Yes. Multifocal contact lenses are specially designed to correct vision at multiple distances in one lens—near, intermediate, and far. Unlike traditional single-vision lenses that correct only for distance or reading, multifocal lenses give you the ability to see clearly across all distances.

They’re often used by people who:

Already wear multifocal glasses and are looking for a glasses-free option during certain activities

Want convenience during sports, travel, or social events

Prefer a more discreet way of correcting their vision

How Do Multifocal Contact Lenses Work?

Multifocal contact lenses use advanced optics to offer a seamless visual experience. Depending on the design, they allow your eye to access multiple prescriptions in a single lens.

Main Designs:

Simultaneous Vision Design
This is the most common type of multifocal contact lens. Different zones in the lens are designated for near, intermediate, and distance vision. These zones overlap slightly, and your brain learns to choose the correct focus based on what you’re looking at.
Translating or Segmented Design
These lenses work more like bifocal glasses, with distinct upper and lower sections for distance and reading. As your eye moves, the appropriate section aligns with your line of sight. This design is more common in rigid gas permeable lenses.

Multifocal Glasses vs. Contact Lenses: What’s the Difference?

You might already be familiar with multifocal glasses, where the lens power changes gradually from top to bottom—ideal for seeing objects at varying distances. While both glasses and contacts serve the same purpose, their function differs in key ways:

Functional Differences:

Aspect	Multifocal Glasses	Multifocal Contact Lenses
Vision Zones	Power changes vertically—top for distance, bottom for reading	Power zones are spread across the lens surface
Use	Eye moves to different zones	Brain adapts to focus through correct zone
User Movement	May require head tilting	No need to adjust head or eye position
Field of Vision	Peripheral vision may be limited	Full field of view with natural eye movement

Both work well—they just work differently. Contact lenses offer an invisible and more flexible alternative for those who want variety in their vision correction tools.

Benefits of Multifocal Contact Lenses

Choosing multifocal contact lenses isn’t about replacing your glasses—it’s about having options. Here’s why people love them:

1. Glasses-Free Convenience

Whether you’re heading to a wedding, playing badminton, or going for a hike, contact lenses let you see clearly without glasses slipping down your nose or fogging up.

2. Smooth Vision at All Distances

Multifocal lenses provide seamless transition between tasks—no need to switch glasses or take them off when using your phone.

3. Comfortable and Natural Feel

Soft contact lenses are incredibly thin and designed to feel like nothing at all. Many users forget they’re even wearing them!

4. Perfect for Active Lifestyles

Enjoy outdoor activities without the bulk of eyewear. Contact lenses stay in place no matter how active your day is.

Available Multifocal Contact Lens Brands in Malaysia

At Multifocal Glasses Specialist by Pott Glasses, we carry a curated range of multifocal contact lenses from the most trusted brands. Each one offers unique advantages depending on your needs.

1. DAILIES® TOTAL1® MULTIFOCAL (Alcon)

Best for: New users, those with sensitive eyes, or people who prioritize hygiene and convenience.

Wearing schedule: Daily disposable — use a fresh lens every day
Material: Water gradient lens, nearly 100% water at the surface
Comfort tech: Exceptional comfort due to ultra-smooth surface; feels like nothing on the eye
Dry eye-friendly: Excellent for users prone to dryness

Why choose this: If you’re hesitant about contact lenses or just starting out, this lens offers the easiest transition with minimal maintenance. Also great for part-time wearers (e.g. using lenses just for sports or social occasions).

2. BIOFINITY® MULTIFOCAL (CooperVision)

Best for: Full-time wearers who want long-wearing comfort with a budget-friendly monthly schedule.

Wearing schedule: Monthly (wear up to 30 days with proper care)
Material: Silicone hydrogel with Aquaform® Technology for moisture retention
Vision tech: Balanced Progressive™ Design allows customized distance and reading correction
Adaptation: May take a few days for the brain to fully adapt to the lens zones

Why choose this: If you’re already comfortable with contacts and looking for a reliable, full-time lens, Biofinity offers great visual performance and comfort at a more economical price point.

3. CLARITI® 1 DAY MULTIFOCAL (CooperVision)

Best for: Daily users who care about sustainability and eye health.

Wearing schedule: Daily disposable
Material: Silicone hydrogel—delivers high oxygen to the cornea
Extra benefits: UV-blocking lens with eco-conscious packaging
Feel: Soft and breathable; suitable for all-day wear

Why choose this: For eco-conscious individuals who want the simplicity of daily lenses without compromising on comfort or oxygen flow. Perfect for busy routines with little time for lens care.

4. AIR OPTIX® PLUS HYDRAGLYDE® MULTIFOCAL (ALCON)

Best for: Experienced contact lens users who need monthly wear and want enhanced protection from buildup.

Wearing schedule: Monthly
Material: SmartShield® Technology minimizes protein and lipid buildup
Moisture tech: HydraGlyde® locks in moisture for long-lasting hydration
Durability: Designed for consistent clarity throughout the month

Why choose this: If you’ve struggled with lens dryness or buildup in the past, this monthly lens is engineered for durability and easy care—especially suitable for professionals and travelers.

5. ACUVUE® MOIST MULTIFOCAL (Johnson & Johnson)

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Best for: Part-time or beginner users who want dependable comfort and an easy transition from glasses.

Wearing schedule: Daily disposable
Material: Etafilcon A hydrogel (soft, gentle on sensitive eyes)
Vision tech: IntuiSight™ Design – tailored for natural pupil size changes with age
Comfort features: LACREON® moisture-locking technology keeps lenses fresh all day

Why choose this: This lens is ideal if you’re new to contacts, have sensitive or dry eyes, or want a no-fuss option for weekend use, sports, or social events. It feels natural from the first wear and is highly reliable for day-to-day activities.

Are Multifocal Contact Lenses Right for You?

While glasses remain the go-to solution for many people with presbyopia, multifocal contact lenses are an excellent secondary option—especially when convenience, comfort, or appearance is a priority.

You might benefit from trying multifocal contact lenses if:

You lead an active lifestyle

You want freedom from glasses during certain events or activities

You’re experiencing eye fatigue from digital devices

You want a backup to your glasses

It’s always best to schedule a professional eye exam to determine the best solution based on your eye health and lifestyle.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

If you’re new to contact lenses, here are some pointers to ensure a positive experience:

Give It Time

It can take a few days to a week for your brain to fully adapt to multifocal optics.

Practice Hygience

Always clean and handle your lenses according to your optometrist’s advice.

Stick To The Schedule

Whether you choose daily or monthly lenses, follow the replacement timeline to avoid discomfort.

Fitting Session

A fitting session and follow-up visit ensure the best results.

Let Multifocal Glasses Specialist by Pott Glasses Help You Find the Right Fit

We specialise in providing tailored vision solutions—whether through multifocal glasses or contact lenses. If you’re curious about trying contact lenses for the first time, our trained optometrists can help you:

Determine the right brand and lens type

Guide you through the fitting and adaptation process

Offer trial lenses so you can experience the difference yourself

We believe that clear vision should never come with compromise—only choices that fit your lifestyle.

Why You Need a Professional Fitting for Multifocal Contact Lenses

Before purchasing multifocal contact lenses, it’s essential to consult a licensed optician or optometrist. Unlike off-the-shelf reading glasses, contact lenses require a tailored fit to ensure comfort, safety, and optimal vision.

Here’s what a professional fitting involves:

1. Determining Your Dominant Eye

Multifocal lenses work by delivering different power zones to your eyes. Identifying which eye is dominant helps decide how the lenses are configured for best visual balance.

2. Measuring Your Presbyopia Power

Everyone’s near vision needs are slightly different. An optometrist will measure how much reading power you need in addition to your distance correction, ensuring the lens offers clear, comfortable vision at all ranges.

3. Checking for Astigmatism

If you have astigmatism, your eye has an irregular shape that can affect lens fit and clarity. In some cases, you may need toric multifocal contact lenses—a special design that corrects both presbyopia and astigmatism. Not all brands offer this, so proper evaluation is crucial.

4. Lens Fitting and Trial

Multifocal contact lenses don’t fit every eye the same way. Your eye care professional will:

• Measure your corneal curvature and pupil size
• Assess tear film quality (important for lens comfort)
• Recommend a trial lens so you can test how it feels and performs in real life

5. Adjustment Period and Follow-Up

Some people adapt to multifocal lenses immediately, while others need a few days. Your optometrist will check how your eyes respond and adjust the prescription or lens design as needed.

There are several solutions available on the market to correct presbyopia, but it’s important to consult with your optician or optometrist before making a purchase. For example, individuals with significant astigmatism may not be suitable candidates for multifocal lenses, and those whose work requires exceptionally sharp or precise vision may find that contact lenses aren’t the ideal option. Book an appointment with our certified optometrist to have a consultation.

Understanding Multifocal Contact Lenses and How to Choose it