Patient Care

FL-41: New scientific validation for "Rose-colored glasses"

Q:

How does FL-41 work?

A:

Although we are not completely sure why FL-41 improves light sensitivity, it seems to have something to do with the wavelengths of light that are filtered out. Fl-41 filters out certain wavelengths of blue and green. These colors are thought to be particularly bothersome to patients with light sensitivity. By blocking these wavelengths of light, this filter also improves contrast and sharpness which increases visual acuity.

Q:

Can FL-41 filter be added to any glasses?

A:

FL-41 filter is best absorbed by the regular (cr-39)) plastic lense material. Applying the filter to polycarbonate lenses proves to be more difficult but can be done in most cases. If the lenses are glass or have anti-reflective coating, they cannot have the filter applied.

Q:

If my glasses are already tinted, can FL-41 be added?

A:

Adding the FL-41 filter to existing lenses that already have a tint is not recommended because it may compromise the overall performance of the filter.

Q:

How much does it cost to add the FL-41 filter to my existing glasses?

A:

Applying the FL-41 filter to existing lenses typically costs $35.00. Also, $5.00 for shipping and handling within the continental United States.

Q:

Does insurance cover the cost of FL-41 filter?

A:

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid do not cover the cost of adding tint to lenses. However, there may be exceptions, so contact your individual insurance provider.

Q:

Are there any side effects from wearing FL-41 filter?

A:

There are no known side effects from wearing the filter.

Q:

Can the filter be worn indoors or outdoors?

A:

If you want to wear FL-41 indoors and outdoors, the filter can be applied to separate pairs of glasses so that you can have a dark pair for outdoor wear and a lighter pair for indoor wear.

Q:

Where can I get FL-41 filter?

A:

The Moran Eye Center in Salt Lake City, Ut. can apply this filter to either your existing glasses (see question 2, above) or can create a new set of glasses for you with the filter built in. When applying this filter to your existing glasses the filter will be applied and returned to you within 10 days. If you would like a new set of glasses made please call (801)587-3765 to discuss what information needs to be obtained as well as the cost.

Q:

What if I don't like the filter?

A:

This filter can be removed from your lenses in most cases if you don't like it. However, if your lenses have had the darker filter applied it may not be possible to remove 100 percent. There is an additional charge for removing the filter. The removal of the filter is not possible when polycarbonate material is used. Also, if we apply an Anti-reflective coating over the FL-41 filter we cannot remove the filter.

For more information you can contact Mr. Patrick Shaw at the Moran Eye Center, 65 Mario Capecchi dr. Salt Lake City, UT 84132 or email patrick.shaw@hsc.utah.edu