A Complete Guide to Prescription Lenses: Types, Coatings & Prices

When you get a new pair of glasses, the frame is what people see — but the lenses are what actually help you see. Understanding your options for prescription lenses can save you money, improve your visual comfort, and ensure you get the best possible vision correction.

At Iftikhar Optical, we offer a complete range of lens types and coatings. This guide covers everything you need to know about prescription lenses available in Pakistan.

Understanding Your Prescription

Before choosing lenses, you need a current eye prescription. Your prescription includes:

• SPH (Sphere): Corrects nearsightedness (-) or farsightedness (+)
• CYL (Cylinder): Corrects astigmatism
• AXIS: Direction of astigmatism correction (0-180 degrees)
• ADD: Additional power for reading (used in bifocals and progressives)
• PD (Pupillary Distance): Distance between your pupils in millimeters

We offer free eye testing at our Lahore store — no appointment needed!

Types of Prescription Lenses

1. Single Vision Lenses

The most common type, with one prescription power across the entire lens. Used for either distance viewing or reading — not both.

Best for: People under 40 with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
Price at Iftikhar Optical: Included with frame purchase.

2. Bifocal Lenses

Two distinct zones — the main area for distance vision and a visible segment at the bottom for reading. There’s a visible line separating the two zones.

Best for: People over 40 who need both distance and reading correction.
Price: Rs 1,500 extra.

3. Progressive (Varifocal) Lenses

The premium option — like bifocals but without the visible line. Progressives provide a smooth transition from distance to intermediate to reading vision.

Best for: People who want multifocal correction without the bifocal line. Ideal for professionals.
Price: Rs 3,000 extra.

4. Reading Glasses

Single vision lenses optimized for close-up work. Available in standard powers from +0.50 to +3.50.

Best for: Presbyopia (age-related difficulty reading close text).
Price: Included with frame purchase.

Lens Materials

• CR-39 (Standard Plastic): Good optical clarity, affordable, but thicker for strong prescriptions
• Polycarbonate: Impact-resistant, thinner, UV protection built-in — excellent for kids and active lifestyles
• High-Index (1.67/1.74): Thinnest and lightest — recommended for prescriptions above +/- 4.00
• Trivex: Similar to polycarbonate but with better optical clarity

Lens Coatings & Add-Ons

Coating	Price	Benefit
Anti-Reflective (AR)	Rs 500	Reduces glare from lights and screens, clearer vision
Blue Light Blocking	Rs 800	Filters harmful blue light from screens
Photochromic (Transitions)	Rs 2,000	Darkens in sunlight, clears indoors
Polarized	Rs 1,500	Eliminates glare from reflective surfaces
Scratch-Resistant	Rs 300	Protects lens surface from everyday scratches
UV Protection	Included	Blocks 100% of harmful UV rays

How to Choose the Right Lenses

1. Consider your prescription strength: High prescriptions benefit from high-index lenses
2. Think about your lifestyle: Active people need impact-resistant lenses; office workers benefit from blue light coating
3. Budget: Start with single vision + AR coating as a minimum, add upgrades based on your needs
4. Multiple pairs: Consider separate glasses for driving (polarized) and computer use (blue light)

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I update my prescription?

We recommend an eye test every 1-2 years, or sooner if you notice changes in your vision. Visit Iftikhar Optical for a free eye test anytime.

Can I use my old frames with new lenses?

In many cases, yes! If your frames are in good condition, we can fit new prescription lenses into them. Bring them to our store for assessment.

How long does it take to make prescription glasses?

Standard single vision lenses are typically ready in 1-2 days. Progressive and specialty lenses may take 3-5 days. Rush orders are available.

Need help choosing your lenses? Our expert opticians at Iftikhar Optical will guide you through every option. Visit us at H8RP+CMJ, Umar Din Rd, Wasanpura, Shad Bagh, Lahore, Punjab or call +92 304 957 0000.