Between 2019 and 2023, the ophthalmic market in the United States experienced a notable shift toward polycarbonate lenses, reflecting changing consumer preferences and industry trends. Initially, polycarbonate lenses accounted for 51.4% of sales in 2019, reaching a peak of 58% in 2022 before slightly declining to 56.6% in 2023. Despite this dip, the average share of polycarbonate lenses per location increased by 5.2% over the five-year period, with the largest growth seen in 2021, rising by 3.1%.

For regional distribution across all years, the South led with an average share of 56.8% per location, followed closely by the Northeast at 56%. The Midwest ranked third with a 55% share, while the West trailed at 52.7%. 

Analyzing trends over time and across regions reveals interesting patterns. In 2019, the Midwest and Northeast showed similar patterns with an approximately 49% to 50% share of polycarbonate lenses, while the South and West had slightly higher percentages, indicating regional variations in preferences. By 2020, there was a noticeable increase in polycarbonate lens adoption across all regions, despite the pandemic, with the South maintaining its lead.

In 2021, the Midwest and Northeast experienced significant increases, while the South continued its momentum, and the West slightly lagged behind. 2022 marked a peak in polycarbonate lens adoption across all regions except for the South, signaling widespread acceptance. However, in 2023, the West experienced a notable decline, highlighting regional disparities.

Overall, the trajectory suggests a growing preference for polycarbonate lenses, influenced by both consumer demand and regional factors. —Ron Krefman, O.D.