Why might a patient be advised to choose anti-reflective coatings on their lenses?

Anti-reflective coatings are primarily recommended because they significantly reduce glare, which can be particularly beneficial in various lighting conditions. When light reflects off the surface of uncoated lenses, it can create distracting glare that interferes with vision. By applying an anti-reflective coating, the amount of bounce-back light is minimized, allowing more light to pass through the lenses. This not only enhances clarity of vision but can also improve overall comfort during activities such as driving at night or working in front of a computer, where glare can be particularly problematic.

While some coatings may have marginal effects on color perception, the primary function of anti-reflective coatings is to eliminate glare and ensure that the wearer experiences clearer and more comfortable vision. Increasing lens thickness or adding color to lenses is not a characteristic of anti-reflective coatings; in fact, the goal is often to keep lenses as thin and unobtrusive as possible while still addressing prescription needs.