Progressive lenses have multiple focal zones (distance, intermediate, near) with seamless transitions. Your brain needs time to learn how to move your eyes and head to use each zone correctly. Initial dizziness or distortion is normal, especially when moving your eyes sideways. This typically resolves as you adapt.

Short corridor (10–14mm): Fits small/shallow frames (e.g., fashionable round or cat-eye). Advantages: wider near zone for reading. Disadvantages: steeper transition, more peripheral distortion. Long corridor (15–18mm): Fits taller frames. Advantages: smoother transition, more natural adaptation. Disadvantages: requires deeper frames, not for small frames.

Not anymore. Modern progressive lenses are designed with no visible lines (unlike old bifocals) and are available in the same stylish frames as single vision glasses: thin metal, acetate, rimless, etc. They are worn by people of all ages with presbyopia, often starting in their 40s. You don't need to look "old" to wear them.