Essilor aims to increase patient satisfaction with progressives

CHICAGO – The Varilux X Series of progressive lenses is designed to provide simultaneous vision, according to Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, here at the American Academy of Optometry meeting.

Purcell, Essilor vice president of customer development, explained here at an academy-sponsored press conference that with Xtend Technology, each area of the lens provides a simultaneous range of focus.

“This is revolutionary when it comes to spectacles,” he said, “not to have to move your head around to get good vision at different ranges.”

He continued, “Our colleagues demand every piece of science for therapeutics and contact lenses. In spectacle lenses, no one cares about science, and that’s a problem for us. We spend a lot of time on the science side.

“The satisfaction level with progressives isn’t where we’d like it to be, at 50%,” Purcell said, “according to a study of 190 consumers. Varilux X has 15 patents. Continue to demand science behind these products.”

He said in addition to Varilux X, Essilor has introduced Crizal Sapphire and Eyezen+ over the past year.

The Crizal Sapphire 360 UV no-glare lenses reduce reflections to provide better aesthetics and safer nighttime driving, according to a press release from Essilor. The lenses provide E-SPF 35 for optimal UV protection.

The Eyezen+ comes in 0, 1, 2 and 3 designs, offering a range of accommodative relief options. Essilor’s Smart Blue Filter reduces exposure to harmful blue light by at least 20%, according to the release. – by Nancy Hemphill, ELS, FAAO

Disclosure: Purcell is employed by Essilor.