Post-Cataract Surgery: Addressing Near Vision and Prescription Needs - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your vision after cataract surgery. It's understandable to have questions about your eyesight, especially after undergoing a significant procedure like cataract surgery. Let’s address your concerns step by step.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that cataract surgery often leads to changes in vision, particularly in near vision. This is because, during the surgery, the cloudy lens (cataract) is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). While this can significantly improve distance vision, many patients find that they still require glasses for near tasks, especially if they have pre-existing conditions like myopia (nearsightedness) or presbyopia (age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects).

Regarding your specific situation, you mentioned that your operated eye has a prescription of -5.00 diopters (500 degrees) and your other eye is -5.75 diopters (575 degrees). After cataract surgery, it is common for patients to experience some degree of presbyopia, which typically begins to manifest in individuals over the age of 40. The degree of presbyopia can vary widely among individuals, but it often ranges from +1.00 to +3.00 diopters, depending on age and the individual’s vision prior to surgery.

Given that you are experiencing difficulty with near vision, it is indeed possible to get a pair of glasses that combines both your myopia correction and presbyopia correction. This type of lens is often referred to as a bifocal or progressive lens, which allows you to see clearly at both distance and near ranges.
For your prescription, you would typically need a pair of glasses that includes:
- A correction for your distance vision (which would be your current prescription of -5.00 for the operated eye and -5.75 for the other eye).

- An additional power for near vision, which could be around +1.00 to +2.50 diopters, depending on how much presbyopia you are experiencing.

It’s crucial to have a comprehensive eye exam with your ophthalmologist or optometrist to determine the exact prescription needed for your near vision. They can provide you with a precise prescription based on your current vision and any changes that have occurred since your surgery.

In summary, yes, you can certainly get glasses that accommodate both your nearsightedness and presbyopia. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your eye care professional to discuss your symptoms and get an updated prescription. They can help you find the best solution for your vision needs, ensuring that you can comfortably read your phone, books, and newspapers again.

Lastly, remember that it may take some time for your vision to stabilize after surgery, and adjustments may be necessary. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider with any further questions or concerns as you navigate this recovery process. Wishing you the best in your journey to clearer vision!