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Trade in Those Bifocals for Presby LASIK (Multifocal LASIK)!
Presby LASIK, also called Multifocal LASIK, is still in experimental stages. Doctors are testing several different approaches for treating presbyopia with laser surgery.
What is presbyopia and how is it corrected?
In order for a person to see clearly at different distances, the natural lens within the eye must change shape, or "accommodate." As we age, this lens begins to stiffen, and can no longer accommodate for near vision. This condition is called presbyopia.
Traditionally, presbyopia is treated with reading glasses, bifocals, or multifocal lenses, but many people find wearing these to be cumbersome, and would prefer surgical vision correction. This is not currently an option, however researchers are working to make this a reality.
Different approaches
Presby LASIK is based on the same principle as multifocal lenses: dividing the field of vision into different zones to see near and distant objects. Doctors can achieve this by using a laser to sculpt certain areas of the eye for near vision, and some for distance. However, researchers are not yet sure what configuration will give the best possible vision, so several are being tested. Possibilities include:
- The center of the cornea is adjusted for near vision, and the periphery for distance (This is the preferred method for individuals who are both farsighted and presbyopic.)
- The center of the cornea is adjusted for distance vision, and the periphery for near
- Customized LASIK is done based on the lifestyle of the patient. If the patient does mostly near work, the procedure is adjusted to achieve the best possible near vision, and vice versa.
Contraindications and Complications
Not everyone is eligible for Multifocal LASIK. If you have thin corneas, have had eye surgery previously, or have a disorder that affects your healing ability, such as diabetes, you are probably not a good candidate for the surgery.
Studies have shown that this procedure is best for those who are farsighted and presbyopic. Patients who have only presbyopia, or who are myopic and presbyopic are more likely to end up with blurred distance vision after the procedure. For some, this problem is temporary but for others it is permanent. Other possible side effects include reduced contrast sensitivity (night vision) and halos.
Multifocal LASIK is likely not a permanent solution. As the patient's vision continues to deteriorate with age, he or she may require additional surgical adjustments, sometimes referred to as "enhancements."
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