What are High Index Lenses?
A high index lens is a lens that has a higher “index” of refraction. This means it has a greater ability to bend light rays to provide clear vision for people with stronger prescription glasses. But that’s the technical terminology. What do high index lenses mean for eyeglass wearers?
Thinner, lighter, and more visually appealing, that’s what! High index lenses are manufactured to be thinner at the edges of the lens and lighter in weight overall.
High index lenses are a good option for people who have strong prescriptions for myopia—commonly called “nearsightedness” due to a difficulty in focusing on far objects. A high-index lens can bend light rays more, while using less material in lenses created for both nearsighted and farsighted people (hyperopia).
No more soda bottle glasses
In times past, strong prescriptions meant thicker, heavier lenses, giving some a “glass bottle” appearance. But now, with high index glasses available in thinner, lightweight plastic (as well as slightly heavier glass), lens wearers with stronger prescriptions can get more attractive, yet equally effective, lens products. Because high-index lenses bend light more, anti-reflective (AR) treatment is often recommended as an add-on for optimum clarity of vision.
For better comfort, better vision and improved cosmetic appeal, people with strong prescriptions can’t beat high-index lenses.
Dr. John is a 2020 graduate of The Ohio State University with a major in microbiology and received his Doctor of Optometry degree with honors from The Ohio State University in 2024. While in optometry school, Dr. John completed his ocular disease rotation at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center where he saw and managed glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and optic neuropathies. He also enjoyed his time in the Binocular Vision/Pediatric clinic and Contact Lens clinic fitting all types of soft and specialty contact lenses. He is now a member of the Ohio Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association. Dr. John grew up in Lancaster, Ohio where he enjoyed competing in sports and spending time outdoors. He is excited to begin his career in optometry and join the Chester Eye Center team.