What fitting philosophy is best suited for translating bifocal contact lenses?

The fitting philosophy that is best suited for translating bifocal contact lenses is to fit them flatter than K. When fitting bifocal lenses, the primary goal is to ensure optimal alignment with the lower lid and proper positioning of the bifocal segment for effective vision correction at multiple distances.

By fitting these lenses flatter than the corneal curvature (K), you allow for adequate movement and positioning of the lens on the eye, which helps to achieve a stable fit. This stability is particularly important for translating bifocal lenses because they rely on the lower portion of the lens for near vision. If the lens is too steep, it may not move down adequately with each blink, which can interfere with the visual transition and comfort.

Additionally, a flatter fit can prevent excessive corneal edge interaction and reduce the risk of discomfort or irritation, promoting better overall wearability. Thus, fitting bifocal contact lenses flatter than K supports the functional requirements of translating bifocal design while also catering to patient comfort and ocular health.