At some point after the age of 40, most people notice a change: reading text up close becomes harder, while distance vision remains relatively sharp. This natural condition, known as presbyopia, happens because the eye’s lens stiffens with age, making near focusing difficult.
For decades, people either carried two pairs of glasses—one for distance, one for reading—or switched constantly depending on the task. That routine was frustrating, so scientists created a solution: bifocal glasses.
Bifocals are designed to combine two optical powers in one lens: the top for distance, and the bottom for near vision. The idea dates back to Benjamin Franklin, who cut two lenses in half and fused them together. Modern versions are sleeker, but the concept remains: one pair for both near and far vision.
In a world where convenience and affordability matter, bifocal glasses remain a practical choice, especially in Nigeria, where budgets and lifestyle needs differ from country to country.
How Bifocal Glasses Work
Bifocal lenses are split into two functional zones:
- The upper portion corrects distance vision—for driving, watching TV, walking outdoors, or viewing presentations.
- The lower portion corrects near vision—perfect for reading, sewing, or using your smartphone.
A visible line separates the two powers. This is the hallmark of bifocals and the main distinction from progressive lenses (which blend powers invisibly).
Imagine you’re in church on Sunday morning: you can look up through the top of your bifocals to see the choir clearly, then glance down to read your hymnal—all without removing your glasses.
Styles of Bifocal Glasses
Not all bifocals look or feel the same. Some common types include:
- Flat-top bifocals (D-segment)
- Most common design. The near segment looks like a “D” turned sideways.
- Offers a wide area for reading.
- Round-segment bifocals
- The reading section is circular.
- Less visible cosmetically, but offers a smaller near zone.
- Executive bifocals (Franklin style)
- A straight line runs across the lens, dividing near and distance equally.
- Provides the widest reading area but is the most noticeable.
- Ribbon bifocals
- A narrow horizontal reading strip.
- Favored by professionals who need constant switching between near and far, like mechanics or engineers.
Benefits of Bifocal Glasses
- Convenience: One pair handles near and distance, removing the need for two glasses.
- Affordability: Cheaper than progressives, making them attractive for cost-conscious Nigerians.
- Adaptability: Easier to adjust to than progressives—most people adapt almost immediately.
- Wide availability: Offered in nearly all optical shops and hospitals in Nigeria.
Limitations of Bifocals
- The visible line is often seen as old-fashioned. Many prefer the “youthful” look of no-line progressives.
- No correction for intermediate vision (like computer screens). Office workers may find this limiting.
- Image jump occurs when moving your gaze across the line, which some find distracting.
- Aesthetic trade-offs: progressives look smoother and more stylish.
Cost of Bifocal Glasses in Nigeria
The price of bifocals in Nigeria varies widely depending on lens quality, frames, coatings, and purchase source (hospital optical shop, independent optician, or online).
1. Basic Bifocal Lenses
- ₦160,000 – ₦320,000
- Standard plastic lenses, minimal coatings. Functional and affordable.
2. Premium Lenses with Coatings
- ₦320,000 – ₦640,000
- Includes scratch resistance, anti-reflective coating, UV protection, and thinner designs for comfort and style.
3. Designer Frames with Bifocals
- ₦640,000 – ₦1,200,000+
- Luxury brands and premium optical materials. A choice for executives and style-conscious buyers.
4. Online vs Local Opticians
- Online retailers: Some Nigerian online shops and global shipping services can deliver bifocals from ₦128,000 – ₦240,000 (often including frames).
- Local optical shops: Typically ₦250,000 – ₦500,000, but they offer proper fitting, adjustments, and warranties.
5. Insurance & Corporate Health Plans
- Some HMO packages in Nigeria cover part of prescription glasses cost, but many do not.
- Always confirm whether your company plan includes vision care.
👉 On average, Nigerians spend between ₦200,000 and ₦500,000 for a reliable pair of bifocals. This makes them significantly more affordable than progressives, which often cost ₦500,000 – ₦1,000,000 or more.
Everyday Nigerian Scenarios
- The School Teacher in Lagos: Needs to see her students at a distance but also read lesson notes easily. A flat-top bifocal at around ₦250,000 solves the problem without needing two pairs.
- The Banker in Abuja: Spends long hours switching between documents and customer interactions. A premium bifocal with anti-glare coating for ₦400,000 makes daily tasks easier.
- The Retired Civil Servant in Enugu: On a budget, chooses a basic bifocal online for ₦150,000, saving money while still meeting his needs.
Who Should Consider Bifocals?
- Adults 40+ with presbyopia.
- Those tired of juggling multiple glasses.
- People who value affordability over cosmetics.
- Nigerians who want a straightforward, easy-to-adapt solution.
Bifocals are less ideal for people who spend all day on computers—progressives or computer-specific lenses may be better.
What Experts Say
Optometrists in Nigeria often recommend bifocals as a practical first step for patients with presbyopia. They are budget-friendly, widely available, and much easier to adapt to than progressives. Doctors usually reserve progressives for patients willing to invest in more advanced solutions.
Practical Buying Tips
- Get accurate measurements – The line placement must match your eye height. Poor fitting causes discomfort.
- Don’t skip coatings – Anti-reflective coatings are especially useful in Nigeria, where driving at night with glaring headlights is common.
- Choose the right frame – Deeper frames give more room for the bifocal segments.
- Consider a backup – Especially if buying online. Optical quality and fitting vary.
- Compare options – Online prices may be cheaper, but local shops provide professional aftercare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bifocals hard to get used to?
Not really. Most people adapt quickly because the lens zones are clearly separated.
Can I get bifocal sunglasses?
Yes. Prescription bifocal sunglasses are available in Nigeria, though more expensive.
Do bifocals work for computers?
Not perfectly. Since they lack an intermediate zone, office workers may find them uncomfortable for long screen sessions.
Why do bifocals have a line?
The line separates near and distance powers. It’s functional, but also what makes bifocals less fashionable than progressives.
Bottom Line
Bifocal glasses remain one of the most affordable and practical solutions for presbyopia in Nigeria. They provide clear distance and near vision in a single pair, reduce the stress of switching between multiple glasses, and are easier to adapt to than progressive lenses.
While they do have limitations—most notably the visible line and lack of intermediate vision correction—their affordability makes them attractive. With prices ranging from ₦160,000 to over ₦1,200,000, depending on style and coatings, there’s a bifocal option for nearly every budget.
For Nigerians looking for function over fashion, bifocal glasses are a solid, reliable choice that balance cost, convenience, and clarity.