Monovision LASIK

Monovision LASIK

Monovision LASIK, is simply correcting one eye for distance and one eye for near vision.  The eye corrected for distance vision is usually the dominant eye and the non-dominant is eye corrected for near vision.  If you are right-handed usually your right eye is your dominant eye, but not always.   Why would you want to do this?  If you are over 40 years old you will have developed presbyopia; therefore, you may need reading glasses for up close vision.  Presbyopia is the inability to focus far and near as the lens in your eye ages.  While Monovision LASIK offers advantages, it is essential to weigh these against potential drawbacks to make an informed decision. I will explain the pros and cons of Monovision LASIK.

Pros of Monovision LASIK

Reduced Dependence on Reading Glasses: One of the primary benefits of Monovision LASIK is its potential to reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses. If you are over 40 years old you will need reading glasses – if both eyes are corrected for distance.  By optimizing one eye for close-up tasks, you can perform everyday activities without the constant use of reading glasses.  Otherwise you would need reading glasses for reading books, smartphones, any possibly working on a computer.

Quick and Painless Procedure: Like traditional LASIK, Monovision LASIK is a swift and virtually painless procedure. It typically involves the use of advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea, allowing for efficient vision correction. You can often return to their daily activities shortly after the surgery.

Proven Efficacy: Monovision LASIK has a strong track record of delivering effective results. Numerous studies have shown that a significant percentage of patients who undergo this procedure achieve improved near vision, with some attaining near acuity of 20/40 or better.

Best candidates:  The best candidates for LASIK monovision are patients that have monovision with their contact lenses, and like it.

Cons of Monovision LASIK

Distance Vision:  Your distance vision will not be quite as sharp because only one eye is correct for distance.  You also lose some depth perception.

Adjustment Challenges: One of the potential drawbacks of Monovision LASIK is adapting to the eye imbalance created by the procedure.  You may experience initial discomfort, visual disturbances, or difficulty coordinating their vision between the two eyes.

Extended Recovery Period: Compared to traditional LASIK, the recovery period for Monovision LASIK may be longer.  You may encounter issues such as reduced night vision, decreased depth perception, or blurry vision for either near or distant objects. These side effects can persist for some time during the recovery process.

Occupational Considerations: Certain professions that demand excellent depth perception may not be suited for Monovision LASIK. Individuals in such careers, including pilots, professional athletes, and truck drivers, may find that the procedure does not align with their occupational requirements.

Reversibility Challenges: While Monovision LASIK is reversible, the process may not always yield the desired results, and the return to a balanced vision may not be as straightforward as the initial procedure.  You should carefully consider this before opting for Monovision LASIK.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Monovision LASIK offers several advantages, primarily in reducing the reliance on reading glasses and providing a quick and relatively painless vision correction process. However, it also presents challenges, such as adjustment difficulties, an extended recovery period with potential visual disturbances, and occupational constraints for certain individuals. The decision to undergo Monovision LASIK should be made after a thorough discussion with your doctor.  You need to take into account your specific needs, lifestyle, and expectations. While Monovision LASIK can be a valuable solution for most, it is essential to be aware of both its benefits and drawbacks to make an informed choice about this vision correction option.

https://www.erielasereye.com/our-services/lasik-eye-surgery/

https://www.erielasereye.com/indepth-lasik/

https://eyewiki.aao.org/Monovision_LASIK