Changes in your Vision:
Before the age of 50, common refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism can cause our vision to be distorted due to the irregular shape of the cornea. Over time, the natural lens of our eye loses its flexibility, making it difficult to focus on things up close. This condition is called presbyopia, a natural aging process of the eye that affects everyone at some point usually after the age of 50. Because of the increasing blurred vision up-close, people over 50 will eventually need reading glasses, bifocals or monovision contact lenses.
LASIK and Monovision LASIK:
Many patients over the age of 50 have LASIK surgery with excellent results! However, LASIK will not prevent presbyopia, and will create the need for reading glasses post operatively. Patients that are nearsighted (see well up close without glasses) tend to be most impacted by this. If you have concerns about losing your ability to see up close after surgery, we recommend trying monovision. Monovision LASIK eye surgery is a technique where one eye is corrected for distance vision, while the other eye is corrected for near vision. Because the dominant eye is treated for distance vision, the brain is easily able to adapt to the slightly blurred vision in the non-dominant eye. It is always recommended that patients try monovision contact lenses to determine if this type of vision is tolerated. You could trial this with your local eye doctor prior to your visit, or we can discuss this in more detail when you are here.
Refractive Lensectomy and Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome:
Refractive Lensectomy has grown increasingly popular for patients over the age of 50, and who are experiencing presbyopia or extreme farsightedness. Over time, the natural lens in our eye will start to become less clear. This change is called DLS or dysfunctional lens syndrome. DLS cannot be addressed with corneal procedures like LASIK or PRK. As light enters our eye, it must pass through the cornea and the lens, so the importance of having a clear pathway through both can mean the difference in visual outcomes. Refractive Lensectomy works by replacing your eye’s natural lens with an advanced intraocular lens (IOL) designed to improve the clarity of your vision and reduce or even eliminate your dependence on glasses. This procedure provides years of improved vision, and because it removes your natural lens, you will never develop cataracts!
Cataract Surgery with Refractive Upgrade:
Some patients may have complaints of night or glare, along with a reduction of best corrected vision. In some cases, this may indicate a cataract. With today’s cataract surgery technology, you still have the option to enjoy a full range of vision while minimizing your dependence on glasses/contacts. If we diagnose a cataract and your condition/complaints meet a medical necessity with your insurance, you could have a portion of the procedure covered by insurance and opt for an upgrade with Laser Cataract Surgery - allowing us to also meet your visual goals. The day of your appointment we will scan your insurance card if not already uploaded through the portal. This will allow us to give you the most up to date information on insurance coverage and out of pocket expenses, if you are a good candidate for cataract surgery. You may have a copay the day of your evaluation if you are diagnosed with cataracts. Please review our insurance page on our website to verify we participate with your insurance. https://commonwealtheyes.com/insurance-and-payment/
Your eyes are unique. Our doctors will utilize diagnostic equipment and their examination to determine your options and help guide you in a decision that is best for your visual goals. We are excited to help you on your journey to better vision!
