- Single Vision (SV) - SV lenses have the same optical correction over the entire area of the lens.
- Aspheric - Aspheric lenses are ideal for strong prescriptions because they are flatter and thinner. Aspheric lenses have a flatter curve toward the periphery of the lens. This eliminates many of the aberrations of the periphery of the lens and permits a greater field of vision. Aspheric lenses provide slightly improved vision over ordinary lenses and offer better cosmetics because they lessen eye magnification and minification.
- Spherical - Spherical lenses have a spherical front curve and can correct for many Rx specifications. Powers can be convergent (ex. +3.00D) to form a convex lens and correct Hyperopia or divergent (ex. -4.75D) to form a concave lens to correct myopia. If neither convergence nor divergence is required in the prescription, "Plano" is used to denote a refractive power of zero. A Plano Rx has the same front and back curves.
- Bifocals - A lens where upper portion corrects distance vision, while the lower portion corrects the near vision. Lined bifocals have a segment line separating the distance from the near. The shape of the bifocal may vary but the traditional lined bifocal is a Flat Top 28 with a segment area 28mm wide. Based on the curvature of the segment lines, Bifocals are categorized in Curve Top (curved segment line), Flat Top (flat segment line) and Round (rounded segments line). Furthermore, bifocals come in at least three sizes of segments 28mm, 35mm and 45mm widths. Round segments come in 22mm, 25mm and 28mm diameters.
- Trifocals - Trifocals are similar to bifocals except they offer two separate power “near” zones. The third zone, placed just above the bifocal zone offers intermediate correction for distances further than reading but less than distance (such as a computer screen) Trifocals are also designed in at least 3 varying widths: 28mm, 35mm and 45mm wide.
- Progressives - - Progressives lenses gradually increase in power as the line of sight travels downward through the lens. The main drawback of such lenses is that the vision on either side of the vertical line through the optical center produces unwanted, unprescribed cylinder power, causing some potential periphery distortion or aberrations. Newer computerized designs or freeform surfacing of progressive lenses offer the ability to all but eliminate this unwanted distortion.
- Specialty Lenses
- Computer lenses - Computer Lenses are specialty lenses with greater intermediate viewing distances specifically made for reading and intermediate distances.
- Occupational Lenses - Occupational lenses are lenses designed for specific jobs, hobbies, and usage and offer a variety of focal areas specific to the wearer.
- Cataract - Cataract lenses are specialty lenses prescribed following cataract surgery. These lenses are created to minimize both the distortions and the weight of the lenses.
- Low Vision - Low vision is a significant reduction of visual function that cannot be fully corrected by ordinary glasses, contact lenses, medical treatment and/or surgery. People with severe low vision may be classified as partially sighted and/or legally blind. Low vision lenses are specially designed high power lenses for patients with low vision.
- Double Segs - Double-D segs are flat top bifocals on the bottom and top with distance viewing in the middle. They're a good solution for those who need to view close up not only downward, but also overhead.
