TIP #1: PICKING PALS

“We choose progressive lenses that offer premium technology and superior optics with the widest field of vision in all areas, plus the quickest adaptation for the wearer.”
—Amy Endo, master optician/practice administrator, Edwin Y. Endo and Associates, Aiea, HI

TIP #2: PRESENTING PALS

“It’s always best to start at the top. Human nature is such that we don’t like to lose things or, in this case, give up what’s already been given. Once a patient has been presented with the best, it requires a sacrifice on their part to give it up.”
—Michael A. Kling, O.D., president & CEO, Invision Optometry, San Diego, CA

TIP #3: VENDOR RELATIONS

“People continually run to the shiniest thing, but how long can you do that? Our approach is different. We have a long-term, close working relationship with one vendor. At the upper tier, you need the best. That can come down to that relationship, and if they are going to help when you need it.”
—Zach McLean, optician/manager, Dietz-McLean, San Antonio, TX

TIP #4: FITTING + TRAINING

“Clinically, we’re seeing much better adaptation to PAL designs. In the past, many patients struggled with adapting, partly to poor lens designs, but all too often to poorly trained opticians.”
—Dr. Kling

TIP #5: HIGH END

“We’re charging full ahead in the digital world. You have to separate yourself. That is why we live at the high end of technology. The results are incredible.”
—Zach McLean

TIP #6: CONVERSION

“With improvements in the past few years, patients will soon not be able to tell the difference between PALs and single-vision lenses. So, soon, we should be able to convert all lined bifocal wearers.” —Amy Endo

TIP #7: VALUE

“With the downward pressures of online eyewear sales, it’s more important than ever to create value for our patients by offering them superior products.” —Dr. Kling

TIP #8: PERFORMANCE

“Progressives and other ophthalmic lenses have become quite expensive for the average consumer, so it’s important that what you offer provides exceptional performance.” —Dr. Kling

TIP #9: WHAT’S NEXT?

“Lenses will become fully customizable based on every variable that affects vision. They will be individualized to each and every patient based on their personal lifestyle.” —Amy Endo

Progressive Views

AN INSIDE LOOK AT WHAT 7 SPECTACLE LENS MAKERS SAY ABOUT A NEW OR FAVORITE PAL—INCLUDING WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL

ESSILOR

Varilux X Series is the newest, most innovative Varilux lens design. Designed to address presbyopes’ key visual challenges, they are the only PALs to feature Xtend technology, a revolutionary design calculation that significantly extends the area of sharp vision within arm’s reach. essilorusa.com

Standout Element: With Xtend technology, patients no longer have to tilt or angle their head to find ‘just the right spot.’

HOYA

iD MyStyle 2 lenses combine patented technology and designs that offer un-rivaled optical clarity for any vision prescription. It’s the first and only technology to shape lens design on both the front and back surface, giving the most comfortable vision for every activity. hoyavision.com

Standout Element: These ‘personalized lenses just for you’ offer natural, stable vision, wider viewing zones, and unrivaled optical clarity.

SEIKO

SEIKO Superior Free-form PALs’ key features include ultra-personalization, variable inset, customizable preferred reading zone, and a profile that’s 25% flatter than other free-form designs. They come in three design options: Balanced, Near-Priority, and Far-Priority. seikovision.com

Standout Element: The variable inset makes it possible to achieve the optimum inset of the near zone for each individual wearer.

SHAMIR

The Autograph III is Shamir’s most premium progressive lens, holistically adapted to every patient’s unique prescription. The Autograph III incorporates four technologies to ensure the best visual experience: EyePoint Technology III, IntelliCorridor, Natural Posture, and As-Worn Quadro. shamirlens.com

Standout Element: Autograph III ensures a clear, comfortable visual experience that is customized to a patient’s individual needs.

VISION EASE

Everywhere+ Progressive Lenses feature a wide distance zone for unmatched comfort. Advanced digital fabrication technology provides flexibility to accommodate a broad range of frame heights and variable inset for optimal alignment on the progressive corridor. visionease.com

Standout Element: They combine an exceptionally smooth and soft design with a high level of customization for easy wearer adaption.

VSP OPTICS GROUP

Unity Via Progressive Lenses were introduced last year. Unlike other progressives, Via doesn’t have the swim effect and is customized for every patient so that they get comfortable vision from the moment they put on their glasses. unitylenses.com

Standout Element: Unity Via Progressive Lenses use advanced intelligent technology to make dispensing progressives easier.

ZEISS

ZEISS DriveSafe PALs feature new Zeiss technology that offers better vision and depth perception in low-light conditions and at night, dramatic reduction in glare, and improved fast focus between the road, dashboard, and mirrors. zeiss.com/vision-care

Standout Element: ZEISS DriveSafe PALs offer patients a unique all-day lens with advanced design features fine-tuned for driving.