As we age, we realize that our vision is not as perfect as it should be. Many of us start to wonder if our arms are becoming shorter than they actually are because the objects we used to see up close need to be held at arms’ length to be seen clearly. The problem is not with your arms but with your vision. This is a condition known as presbyopia that occurs right around the age of 40 for most people, especially in those who have never worn glasses. Typically, people try to avoid the hassle of acquiring prescription glasses or contact lenses because they are not ready comfortable with using either of those so as an alternative they consider monovision correction from Lasik treatment.
What is Monovision?
Monovision is often referred to as blended vision which is commonly treated with contact lenses or laser vision correction. Blended vision allows the individual to view objects at a distance in one eye and see up close in the other. Primarily, we recommend patients to correct the dominant eye for excellent distance vision and the non-dominant corrected to focus on objects that are up close.
When Does Monovision Work Best for Me?
Difficulty in reading or working on things up close becomes a problem for adults between the ages of 40 and 60. People with presbyopia may regain clear vision with glasses, contact lenses or laser surgery when symptoms have become more frequent. However, along with presbyopia a slew of other eye and vision problems may develop at this time. Adults over 40 may be at risk for the following:
- Systematic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Family history of glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration
- Ocular side effects from medication or antihistamines
- Visually demanding occupations
Monovision Lasik May Be Right for You
A full comprehensive eye exam determines your need for Lasik, as well as your rejection rate to save the trouble of having a follow-up procedure. Approximately 70 percent of patients over the age of 40 undergo monovision procedure, and enhances the ability to see at a distance and up close without complications. As per a study from the American Journal of Ophthalmology, a scientific publication for ophthalmologists, monovision is a valid option for patients with presbyopia who wish to obtain improved near-sighted vision and achieve good distance perception without glasses.
Monovision by Lasik surgery provides a great alternative for patients who use bifocal glasses or contact lenses. If you are over the age of 40 and would like to learn more about your Lasik options then contact the Caster Eye Center in Los Angeles and schedule a consultation to determine if your vision can improve with monovision.