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Absorptive Lenses

The control of light transmission is important to the patient with low vision: too much or too little visible light can reduce visual function, while invisible (short wave length) light may be detrimental to a susceptible retina. Tint alone gives no indication of either visible or invisible transmission. Transmission percentages usually are indicated by the manufacturer.

Several categories of light-absorbing lenses are used specifically for low vision. These are lenses that:

  • reduce the intensity of light;
  • transmit or block specific wavelengths;
  • absorb or block ultraviolet and/or infrared transmission;
  • have photochromic proeprties to vay the transmission of visible light in response to the ambient level of  light;
  • aare coated with a multilayer, anti-reflective coating to reduce surface reflections;
  • polarize light (horizontal plane), or
  • enhance contrast.

Light-absorbing lenses are available in a variety of frame styles including wrap-around, side shield frames, and lenses that clip on, flip up, or slip in behind the user's own glasses.