Post-Cataract Surgery: Addressing Vision Discrepancies and Lens Choices

Q: Post-Cataract Surgery: Addressing Vision Discrepancies and Lens Choices

Hello： The use of these two types of lenses should not lead to an inability to fuse images. <br>It may be related to the significant difference in your previous myopia and the condition of your retina. <br>This should be discussed further with your attending physician to determin

Post-cataract surgery

Hello, Doctor: I have myopia of -10.50 diopters in my right eye and -6.00 diopters in my left eye.
I underwent cataract surgery on both eyes within the past two years, with a target of -2.00 diopters for myopia correction.
Post-surgery, when viewing objects with my unaided right eye, the image appears smaller, while the image from my left eye appears larger, resulting in a significant disparity that makes it difficult for my brain to fuse the images.
Wearing glasses causes dizziness and discomfort.
It has been over three months since the second eye surgery, and I am still unable to adapt.
Could this issue be due to the use of different brands and types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) in each eye (a monofocal IOL in the right eye and a short-range extended depth of focus IOL in the left eye)? I am considering whether replacing the left eye's IOL with a non-spherical monofocal IOL of the same brand as the right eye would make the visual images from both eyes more consistent.
I would like to hear your opinion before making a decision.

Ms. Lu, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: The use of these two types of lenses should not lead to an inability to fuse images.
It may be related to the significant difference in your previous myopia and the condition of your retina.
This should be discussed further with your attending physician to determine the cause.
Resetting to the same brand of single vision lenses does not guarantee that the image size will become consistent.

Reply Date: 2023/06/19

More Info

Post-cataract surgery vision discrepancies can be a challenging issue, especially when patients have undergone procedures on both eyes with different lens types or brands. In your case, the significant difference in vision between your right eye (with a single-focus lens) and your left eye (with a short-focus lens) is likely contributing to the difficulties you are experiencing, including discomfort and dizziness when wearing glasses.

The primary reason for the visual discrepancies you are experiencing is indeed related to the different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) used in each eye. When one eye has a single-focus lens and the other has a multifocal or extended depth of focus lens, the brain may struggle to fuse the images from both eyes effectively. This can lead to issues such as double vision, difficulty focusing, and the sensation of one image being smaller or larger than the other. The brain typically adapts to differences in vision over time, but this adaptation can take longer for some individuals, especially when the differences are pronounced.

Regarding your question about whether changing the left eye's lens to match the right eye's lens (both being non-spherical single-focus lenses from the same manufacturer) would help equalize the image sizes: it is possible that this could improve your visual experience. By having both eyes with the same type of lens, the brain may find it easier to merge the images, potentially reducing the discomfort and dizziness you are experiencing. However, it is essential to consider that the overall visual outcome will also depend on other factors, such as the degree of residual refractive error, the health of the retina, and the overall adaptability of your visual system.

Before making any decisions, I recommend discussing this matter further with your ophthalmologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your current visual status, including any residual refractive errors that may need correction. They may also suggest a trial with glasses or contact lenses that can help simulate the desired outcome before committing to another surgical procedure.
In addition, if you are considering surgery to replace the left eye's lens, it is crucial to have a thorough discussion about the potential risks and benefits, as well as the expected outcomes. Your doctor may also evaluate whether there are other underlying issues contributing to your visual discomfort, such as dry eye syndrome or other ocular surface problems, which could exacerbate your symptoms.

In summary, while changing the left eye's lens to match the right eye's lens may help in achieving a more consistent visual experience, it is essential to have a detailed discussion with your ophthalmologist to explore all options and ensure that you make an informed decision based on your specific visual needs and circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Managing Vision Discrepancies in Cataract and Glaucoma Patients

Hello, Doctor He: I had cataract surgery on my right eye two weeks ago. I originally thought I could use contact lenses to address the vision disparity. However, I later learned that glaucoma patients are not suitable candidates for contact lenses. Currently, my left eye has a my...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello Urbancrab: If you cannot wear contact lenses, then the only option left may be cataract surgery. A significant disparity in vision can also be an indication for surgery, for your reference. Dr. He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Managing Post-Cataract Surgery Vision Discrepancies: Tips and Solutions

Hello, I just had cataract surgery on my left eye. I can see clearly at a distance with the monofocal lens. However, after the surgery, I am unable to adjust the focus between my operated left eye and my normal right eye. The view from my left eye appears closer, while the view f...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Chen: It is recommended that you wear a monocular contact lens for your right eye, which should help resolve your issue. Director He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Post-Cataract Surgery: Choosing the Right Glasses and Vision Concerns

Hello Doctor: I underwent cataract surgery on my left eye in August 2018 and on my right eye at the end of September. I had laser treatment at the end of October due to my preoperative high myopia, with my left eye measuring -10.00 diopters and my right eye -8.00 diopters. The do...

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology
Question 1: It is recommended that you consult your ophthalmologist regarding any questions related to wearing glasses. Question 2: It is advisable to give your eyes more rest. Question 3: It is suggested that you ask your ophthalmologist about any postoperative concerns, as each...

Unexpected Vision Changes After Cataract Surgery: What to Do?

Hello, doctor. I just completed cataract surgery on my right eye last month. Before the surgery, I told the doctor that I wanted to maintain a prescription of -2.00 diopters for computer use and reading, but the doctor ended up correcting my right eye to plano (0.00 diopters). My...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
In general, replacing the lens is possible, but it requires specialized instruments. The risks are relatively low; however, the replacement should not be done too long after the previous surgery, as the old lens may become difficult to remove. Dr. He Jianxian, Department of Ophth...