What Is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is the normal stiffening of the eye’s lens that makes near tasks harder, usually starting in our 40s. It is progressive, but you have multiple ways to stay comfortable and independent.
Non-Surgical First Steps
- Readers or progressives: Immediate clarity for near tasks with no downtime.
- Contact lens monovision or multifocals: One eye favors near, the other favors distance; helpful trial before surgery.
- Prescription drops: Certain pupil-modulating drops can sharpen near focus for a few hours at a time.
- Lighting and dryness: Bright light and dry eye care (warm compresses, lid hygiene, lubricants) improve text contrast.
Corneal Procedures
- LASIK or PRK monovision: Leaves one eye slightly nearsighted for near work while the other stays distance-focused.
- Blended vision profiles: Customized laser patterns can widen the depth of focus with careful screening.
- Keep in mind that future lens changes can alter the effect. Review LASIK vs. PRK vs. RLE for trade-offs.
Lens-Based Solutions
- Refractive lens exchange (RLE): Replaces the aging lens with an IOL designed for your goals, preventing future cataracts.
- Cataract surgery: Offers the same lens-based benefits once a cataract is present.
- Premium lenses: EDOF or multifocal options reduce reliance on readers; toric models correct astigmatism (details in the premium IOL guide).
Combining Strategies Over Time
Many patients start with readers, then move to laser monovision, and later choose RLE or cataract surgery for stable clarity. Others opt for lens surgery first and fine-tune with laser enhancements years later. Your plan should match your tolerance for glasses, night-driving needs, and willingness to accept temporary visual phenomena like halos.
How to Decide With Your Surgeon
Bring examples of the tasks you do most—screen work, night driving, crafting, or caregiving. We will map your cornea, measure the lens, and discuss how much glasses independence you want. A balanced plan keeps you safe today and flexible for future eye health.