Presbyopia Correcting
Lens Simulator
Multifocal and extended depth of focus lenses will very likely improve your depth of focus and decrease your dependence on reading glasses. The downside is that you may experience side effects including loss of contrast, glare, and halos.
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The pictures below approximate the difference between standard intraocular lenses and multifocal or extended depth of focus lenses. Your actual experience is affected by lighting, pupil size, and the task at hand.
Understanding your personality, physique, pathology and predispositions (the 4 P's) may help you decide whether you want to opt for these lenses.
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Note: Your cataract may make simulations more difficult to appreciate. Consider going over these simulations with a friend who has already benefited from cataract surgery, or someone who is younger and does not have cataracts.
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Improved near vision
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Improved near vision, the primary effect of presbyopia correcting specialty lenses, is seen below.
Standard Intraocular Lens
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Reading glasses are usually necessary
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Extended Depth of Focus/Multifocal Lens
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Reading glasses are often not necessary
Reduced Contrast
One side effect of multifocal and extended depth of focus lenses is reduced contrast. This evident in the pictures above, and is simulated again below:
Standard Intraocular Lens- Normal Contrast
MF/EDOF Lens- Reduced Contrast
Halos
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Multifocal and Extended Depth of Focus lenses cause varying degrees of halo surrounding images. This is more evident at night surrounding streetlights and headlights.
Glare
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Glare and starbursting can also occur with presbyopia correcting lenses.
Summary
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When you choose presbyopia correcting lenses, it is likely that you will experience a balance of desirable effects and undesirable side effects. Who you are may decide how happy you are with presbyopia correction. Learn about the Four P's- personality, physique, pathology, and predispositions- that may help predict how happy you would be with presbyopia correcting lenses.