Martin SeegerDec 12

Dear Internet,

when do I get glasses that automatically adapt to the distance?

I don't want progressive lenses, I want glasses that magnify on short distances all by itself and switch back to normal when I climb on my bike.

At least 10 years ago they were announced as "pretty soon". It's getting urgent on my side now.

Sincerely, rapidly aging me

Show threadTim Panton
@masek A couple of friends of mine have had pentafocal lenses implanted in their eyes - after a week or two the brain re-optimises itself and uses the correct focal length. Seems like magic to me but they apparently work.
Dec 12 at 3:25pmWeb
Show threadBarbara MonacoDec 12
@steely_glint @masek Multifocal implant surgery is expensive, $thousands per eye if you don't have cataracts. Most insurances don't cover any of it.
They are permanent, require invasive eye surgery. If considering this, note that there are medical risks. Usually they are implanted when cataracts are removed and surgery is medically necessary. Then insurance covers the surgery, but you'll pay $thousands out of pocket for lenses.
Multifocal contact lenses are available.They have their own issues.
Show threadTim PantonDec 12
@Barbramon1 @masek Yeah, I'd need a really compelling reason to do it, it seems absurdly risky to me, but they seem happy with the results.
Show threadBarbara MonacoDec 12
@steely_glint @masek I worked in ophthalmology for decades, so just wanted to put the facts out there. Unlike glasses, it's not without risk. Personally, I would never have the procedure unless I needed cataract surgery, but to each his own.