Which Lens is Used to Correct Presbyopia?

As we age, our eyes undergo a natural change that can make it difficult to focus on close-up objects such as reading a book or using a smartphone. This condition is called presbyopia, and it affects nearly everyone over the age of 40. But don’t worry. There are many effective ways to correct presbyopia and restore clear, comfortable vision at all distances, including lenses and surgery. ¹James S. Wolffsohn 1 et al. (2018) Presbyopia: Effectiveness of Correction Strategies, Progress in Retinal and Eye Research. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S135094621730126X.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the various lenses used for correcting presbyopia. If you’re considering LASIK Surgery in Adelaide, the best place to start is to check out our free online suitability test.

Before you proceed to read the rest of this article, you might want to understand how presbyopia differs from hyperopia by checking this article: What is the difference between hyperopia and presbyopia? Now, let’s go into the details of the various lenses used to correct presbyopia.

Which Lens is Used to Correct Presbyopia?

Each type of lens works differently to help you see clearly at all distances, and the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Your eye doctor can help you choose the right type of lens based on factors such as your age, the severity of your presbyopia, your lifestyle, and any other vision problems you may have. With the right lens, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision and continue to do the things you love without straining your eyes.

Surgical Lens Implants

For some people, surgical lens implants may be a more permanent solution for presbyopia. ²Gil-Cazorla, R., Shah, S. and Naroo, S.A. (2016) A review of the surgical options for the correction of Presbyopia, British Journal of Ophthalmology. Available at: https://bjo.bmj.com/content/100/1/62.short These procedures involve replacing the natural lens of the eye with an artificial lens that can provide clear vision at all distances.

The most common type of surgical lens implant for presbyopia is called a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL). These lenses work similarly to multifocal glasses or contact lenses, with different prescription areas for distance, intermediate, and near vision.

Another option is an accommodating IOL, which is designed to mimic the natural focusing ability of the eye. These lenses can change shape to focus on objects at different distances, providing a more natural and seamless visual experience.

Surgical lens implants can be an option for people seeking a more permanent solution for presbyopia and are willing to undergo a surgical procedure. They can also be suitable for individuals with other eye conditions, such as cataracts, that require lens replacement surgery. However, it’s important to discuss with your eye doctor the potential risks and the fact that some individuals may still need glasses or contact lenses for certain activities post-surgery.

Overview of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

Different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) offer various benefits and are selected based on the patient’s specific vision needs and eye conditions.³Ophthalmology, 1Department of (Intraocular lens correction of Presbyopia : Taiwan Journal of Ophthalmology, LWW. Available at: https://journals.lww.com/tjop/fulltext/2019/09010/intraocular_lens_correction_of_presbyopia.2.aspx Monofocal IOLs provide clear vision at one distance, while multifocal IOLs cater to both near and far distances. Accommodative IOLs adjust with the eye’s muscles, toric IOLs correct astigmatism, EDOF IOLs provide a range of vision, and phakic IOLs are used without removing the natural lens for high refractive errors.

These options enable personalised vision correction, enhancing the outcomes of laser eye surgeries and improving the quality of life for patients.

1. Monofocal IOLs

Monofocal IOLs are designed to provide clear vision at a single distance, typically set for far vision. This means that while patients can see distant objects clearly, they will likely need reading glasses for near tasks, such as reading or computer work. Monofocal IOLs do not correct presbyopia, the age-related loss of close-up vision and are usually used in cataract surgery.

2. Multifocal IOLs

Multifocal IOLs are designed with multiple zones that have different powers to correct vision at both near and far distances. These lenses help reduce the dependence on glasses for both distance and reading vision. Multifocal IOLs can improve overall vision quality but might cause some visual disturbances, such as halos or glare, especially at night.

3. Accommodative IOLs

Accommodative IOLs are designed to move or change shape inside the eye in response to the eye’s natural muscle movements. This ability helps the lens to focus on objects at various distances, simulating the natural accommodation of a young, healthy eye. These lenses aim to provide a broader range of vision, from near to far, by using the eye’s focusing mechanism.

4. Toric IOLs

Toric IOLs are specially designed to correct astigmatism, a condition where the cornea is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision. Toric IOLs have different powers in different meridians of the lens to counteract the uneven curvature of the cornea. These lenses are particularly beneficial for patients with significant astigmatism who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses

5. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs

Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs are designed to provide a continuous range of high-quality vision across multiple distances. These lenses aim to reduce the need for glasses by offering a good balance of near, intermediate, and distance vision. EDOF IOLs work by elongating the focus of the eye, providing a more seamless transition between different focal points.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Lens

With so many options available for correcting presbyopia, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Your eye doctor can help guide you through the decision-making process, but there are a few key factors to keep in mind.

Lifestyle and Visual Needs

One of the most important considerations when choosing a lens for presbyopia is your lifestyle and visual needs. If you spend a lot of time reading or doing close-up work, you may want a lens that provides a wider range of near vision correction, such as a multifocal or progressive lens.

If you have an active lifestyle or play sports, you may prefer contact lenses or a lens that doesn’t have visible lines that could distract you. And if you don’t want to wear glasses all the time, monovision lenses or part-time contact lenses could be a good option.

Comfort and Adaptation

Another important factor to consider is comfort and adaptation. Some people find it easier to adjust to certain types of lenses than others, and this can vary depending on your individual needs and preferences.

Presbyopia is a natural part of the ageing process, but it doesn’t have to limit your ability to see clearly and comfortably at all distances. With the right type of lens, you can continue to enjoy the activities you love without straining your eyes.

Contact IVISION LASER today to explore your options and start your journey to clearer vision, book a free assessment here.