Presbyopia/Aging Eye

As mentioned previously all of us will become presbyopic sometime after the age of 40.

Think of the eye as a camera. When we are born and an object comes toward us, we can accommodate or bring the image into focus by "expanding or relaxing" the human lens. When we hit the ripe old age of 40, this ability to accommodate or focus begins to "stiffen". Nearsighted patients are still able to read without glasses or contacts because the image is naturally focused on the retina. However, when placing on their spectacles or contact lenses, it becomes more difficult to read.

Certainly anyone who wears glasses or contact lenses within this age group has experienced the "joys of presbyopia" (as if turning 40 is not a joy unto itself). Many people have experienced their arms becoming shorter as they reach for the newspaper or try to order from a menu at their favorite restaurant. Historically, after months of denial, patients succumb to reality and place a bifocal on their favorite pair of glasses (no lines of course). Many contact lens wearers on the other hand successfully choose monovision. Monovision patients wear a correction for distance in one eye and a correction for near in the other.

At the present time, Lasik patients can also choose monovision. In other words: Assuming excellent distance vision after LASIK, if you are in the presbyopic age group and wish to be free of glasses for reading, monovision is an excellent option, and, by the way is chosen by many patients. You might ask how do I know if I can tolerate monovision? We will gladly work with you and provide you with contact lens trials. If you have never worn contact lenses don't worry; we will take care of them for you. These lenses can simulate your vision following Lasik and will help you make a better decision. In addition, we have many Lasik patients over the years that experience monovision and are thrilled with it. If for whatever reason you were not happy with monovision, the monovision can easily be reduced or eliminated at a later time, and at no extra cost! Dr. Behler will spend the time necessary working with you to achieve ideal results.

Options other than monovision include the accomodating implant called Crystalens and ReSTOR. Recently approved by the FDA this exciting technology enables patients undergoing Refractive Cataract Surgery to be able to see at distance, intermediate and near vision with both eyes.