Vision Source Las Vegas Introduces Multifocal Contact Lenses

Dec. 22, 2009 - PRLog -- LAS VEGAS - Vision Source Las Vegas’ Centennial Hills office, Advanced EyeCare, has announced it now carries the Air Optix Aqua Multifocal breathable contact lenses from CIBA Vision. The lenses debuted in Europe in early 2009, but were only recently released in the United States. Advanced EyeCare was the first eye care provider in Las Vegas to offer the new technology, which is great news for local contact lens wearers. The new lenses enable those suffering from presbyopia, a condition common in those over age 40 that makes it difficult to focus on near objects, to achieve optimal near and distance vision while transitioning smoothly between the two. This means their vision needs can be fulfilled solely by contact lenses rather than alternating reading glasses with contacts.

According to Dr. Brian Miller of Vision Source, the technology in the multi-focal contact category had been stagnant of years. “As the baby boomers age, the demand for a good multi-focal contact has been increasing. Earlier attempts to serve these patients via multi-focal lenses didn’t stand-up. But with this new technology, we’re seeing more than a 70 percent success rate with our patients, which exceeded our expectations.”

Another benefit of the new lenses is its flexibility. “The Air Optix Aqua allows us to adjust the lens if the vision is not quite right for the patient and there are many combinations we can work with to meet the patient’s needs,” says Dr. Miller.

Yet another plus for the Las Vegas market is that those who suffer from dry eye and have stopped wearing contacts now have another option.  Dr. Miller explains that a great number of contact lenses wearers in Las Vegas go back to glasses because the climate and air quality leaves them with dry or itchy eyes, which is exacerbated by contact lenses. “Air Optix features a unique moisture system that allows up to five times more oxygen through the lens than the traditional hydrogel soft multifocal lenses. This eliminates the irritation that so many locals experience from contacts, and in addition to comfort, it leaves the wearer with whiter, healthier-looking eyes,” says Dr. Miller, who explains that the lenses can be worn for up to 30 days.  A 30-day trial is available to patients who inquire at Vision Source’s Advanced EyeCare office, www.visionsource-advanced-eyecare.com or 702.737.3937. The office served
as a trial center for the technology earlier this year and Drs. Brian and Mark Miller are seeing excellent results from their patients using the lenses.  

Presbyopia is an age-related condition, which is thought to occur when the proteins inside the natural lens of the eye experience a gradual thickening and decrease in flexibility. The drop in elasticity makes it difficult for the eye focus up-close, such as when reading a menu or newspaper.

“It’s important for people to realize that a presbyopic prescription will continue to change as a person ages,” says Dr. Mark Miller, also of Vision Source’s Advanced EyeCare office.   “So while we may feel that 40 is the new 30, when it comes to our vision, a decrease in the eye’s elasticity is a part of the natural aging process. It’s very common for people to have a contact lens prescription increase in strength over time. This is why it’s important to see your optometrist annually. Air Optix is a great solution for people to be able to continue to wear contacts, which allows for a much more active lifestyle.”  

Air Optix multifocal lenses are made of 67 percent polymer (Lotraficlcon B) and 33 percent water. The standard diameter is 14.2 mm and the base curve is 8.6 mm. They are available in three ADD Powers low, medium and high.

About Vision Source
Vision Source Las Vegas is a network of optometrists that provides patients with personal care and service while offering advanced medical technology and innovative products to promote eye health. Vision Source doctors are committed to continuing education, offering patients the most innovative procedures to detect, and correct eye conditions. As a group, Vision Source is dedicated to educating the community about eye health issues and the importance of annual eye exams through special events and programs. Founded in 1991, the Vision Source network includes 2,000 offices and over 4,000 doctors throughout the 50 states and in Canada. Vision Source Las Vegas started in 2003, and now includes 13 optometrists at 10 locations in the Las Vegas Valley. For more information call 1-800-EYES-911 or visit www.visionsourcevegas.com.