Which lens for second cataract surgery?

[jbug7]

I am a 70 yr old woman - four years ago I had very successful cataract surgery with a monofocal IOL placed into my right eye.  I have been very satisfied with it.  My distance sight in that eye is now 20/20, but I need readers (2.75 for reading, sewing,etc and 2.25 for computer work), Now I have a cataract in my left eye (which is 20/40 and 20/60 in glare)  that my opthmalogist wants to correct.  He is suggesting he put a Chrystalens in that eye.  He claims that if he does that, I will not need glasses for the computer, reading a menu, seeing the dashboard of my car, etc.  However, he says I will still need readers for extended periods of reading or doing other close work.

Not only is the Chrystalens extremely costly, but after reading comments about it I am not sure this is the best thing for me or if it is worth the extra "out of pocket" money.  It would mean I would have a different type lens in each eye.
Does anyone have any recommendations?  I'd appreciate anything to help with my decision.  Thank you very much.

[jbug7]

I was just re-reading your  comment of June 19.  I was wondering if you know:  you stated that if my right eye was my dominant eye you thought I could get a "blended vision" correction using a monofocal lens in my left eye (which now needs the cataract removed).  However, suppose my dominant eye is my left eye - is that solution impossible?  As I stated before, my right eye was done about 4 years ago with a monofocal lens.

[JodieJ]

On other threads of this forum, Dr. Hagan (one of the forum M.D.s) states that he would want a "blended vision" correction using monofocal lenses (which I described) in his own eyes.  And he is in a position to know how all these lenses really perform.

[JodieJ]

If your right (20/20) eye is your dominant eye, I have another option for you.  Get another monofocal lens in your left eye with the power set for intermediate vision (maybe -1.25D).  Your reading ability will be at least as good as it would with a Crystalens (probably better), with much less chance for post-surgery problems and complications.  Better yet, there will be no "premium" lens surcharge for you to pay.

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear jbug7,

The choice of lens is complicated due to the myriad of choices.  In general, the ophthalmologist will determine which type is best depending upon a questionnaire and a discussion with you.  There is usually more than one type of lens to which a person can adapt.  Adaptation to different lenses can be difficult but a crystalens and monofocal implant are most similar. If you are not certain, write down a list of what activities are important to you and call your doctor’s office.  They can help guide you through the process.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[jbug7]

Thank you for the idea - I will talk to my doctor about it - it certainly sounds interesting, and if it can be done it will save me what he wants to charrge for the Crystalens (which is $1800 - seems like a lot).

Also, thanks to all who answered me!

[2ndsight]

I got a Crystalens 2 months ago and yes, you will be able to see the dashboard, mirror, makeup, cooking, all without glasses. I wear reading glasses only for small print and the computer. As far as "negatives" with Crystalens are there are some issues with light reflection on the lens, I don't have too much trouble with it but others find it annoying.