Most people get used to new varifocals within one to two weeks, and many within a few days. Occasionally it takes up to a month. The adjustment is normal: your brain is learning to use different parts of the lens for different distances. This guide explains what you’re likely to notice, how to speed things up, and when a problem needs checking.
New to varifocals? Start with Varifocal Glasses Explained for how they work and which package suits you.
Why varifocals take getting used to
A varifocal lens changes power gradually from top to bottom:
- Top: distance vision, for driving, walking and watching TV.
- Middle: intermediate vision, for computer screens and things at arm’s length.
- Bottom: near vision, for reading and close work.
The clear zones are joined by a “corridor” down the centre of the lens. Every varifocal has areas of blur towards the lower sides of the lens. This comes from the way the power changes across the lens. It isn’t a fault, and it can’t be removed completely. Better lens designs make these areas smaller and the corridor wider, which is why higher-tier varifocals are usually easier to adapt to.
What’s normal in the first few weeks of wearing varifocals
| What you notice | Why it happens | What helps |
| Blur when you look sideways | You’re looking through the side areas of the lens | Turn your head, not just your eyes |
| A “swimming” or swaying feeling when you move your head | The side areas distort slightly as you move | It usually fades within days as your brain adapts |
| Steps or kerbs look closer or blurry | You’re looking at the ground through the reading zone | Tilt your head down so you look through the top of the lens |
| Hunting for the clear spot when reading | Your eyes haven’t learned where the reading zone is | Lower your eyes, not your head, and hold things centrally |
| Neck ache at the computer | You’re tilting your head back to use the intermediate zone | Lower your screen slightly |
| Mild tiredness or headaches | Your eyes and brain are working harder while adapting | These usually settle within the first week or two |
10 tips to get used to varifocals faster
- Wear them all day from the start. Put them on when you get up and keep them on. The more you wear them, the faster you adapt.
- Don’t swap back to your old glasses. Switching between pairs makes your brain relearn each time.
- Start at home. Spend the first day or two indoors, doing familiar things, before you head out.
- Point your nose at what you want to see. Turn your head towards things instead of glancing sideways.
- To read, drop your eyes, not your head. Keep your chin level and look down into the reading zone. Hold books and your phone in front of you, a little lower than usual.
- For distance, lift your chin slightly. If distant things aren’t sharp, raise your chin a little so you’re looking through the top of the lens.
- Take stairs carefully. Tilt your head down to look at each step, and hold the handrail until you feel confident. The College of Optometrists notes that older people who wear bifocals or varifocals may be at greater risk of falls, so take extra care at first.
- Set up your screen. Place your monitor at arm’s length with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level. This lets you use the intermediate zone without tilting your head back.
- Don’t drive until you’re comfortable. Wait until walking about and judging distances feels natural. When you drive, move your head to check mirrors and junctions.
- Give it time before deciding. Try not to judge your new glasses in the first few days. Many people who struggle at first are fine after a week.
Check that your varifocals fit properly
Varifocals depend on the lens sitting in exactly the right place in front of each eye. If your glasses slide down your nose, sit crooked, or tilt, you’ll look through the wrong part of the lens. That can feel like the lenses are wrong when the problem is the fit.
Check these in a mirror:
- The frame sits level, not higher on one side.
- It stays in place when you look down, without being pushed up.
- It doesn’t rest on your cheeks when you smile.
If the fit is off, a quick adjustment often fixes adaptation problems. Varifocals also need a frame deep enough for all three zones. We recommend a lens height of at least 30mm. Check the lens height on the product page when you choose a frame.
Varifocals for computer work
A standard varifocal has a relatively narrow intermediate zone, because it also has to fit distance and reading. If you spend hours at a desk, you may find a separate pair more comfortable for that work. Our Occupational Office package has a wider intermediate zone designed for desk and screen use. It isn’t suitable for driving. See our occupational lenses page.
When to get help with new varifocals
Contact us if you are still having problems after about two weeks of wearing your varifocals all day. Common causes are a frame that needs adjusting, a measurement that needs checking, or a prescription that needs reviewing. Contact our team with a description of what you notice, and have your prescription to hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get used to varifocals?
Most people adjust within one to two weeks, and many within a few days. Occasionally it takes up to a month. Wearing them all day, every day, speeds things up.
Is it normal to feel dizzy in new varifocals?
A mild swimming or swaying feeling is common in the first few days, especially when you move your head quickly. It should ease steadily. If it gets worse or doesn’t improve after two weeks, get the fit and prescription checked.
Why is the side of my varifocal lens blurry?
All varifocals have some blur towards the lower sides of the lens, because of how the lens changes power. Turning your head instead of your eyes keeps you in the clear zones.
Can some people not get used to varifocals?
A small number of people don’t adapt, even after several weeks. They may do better with a different varifocal design, separate distance and reading glasses, or occupational lenses. An optician can advise.
Is adjusting easier the second time?
Usually, yes. Experienced varifocal wearers often adapt to a new pair within a day or two. A big prescription change or a different lens design can mean a longer adjustment.
