John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO
John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO
Male
Kansas City, MO
Specialties: Ophthalmology
Interests: Eye-Medical Blog
Male
Kansas City, MO
Specialties: Ophthalmology
Interests: Eye-Medical Blog
Discover Vision Centers of Kansas City
Kansas City, MO
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May 21, 2015 - 35 comments
Mini-monovision Versus Multifocal Intraocular Lens Implantation
Labiris G, Giarmoukakis A, Patsiamanidi M, Papadopoulos Z, Kozobolis VP
J Cataract Refract Surg. 2015;41:53-57
Study Summary
This study was performed by a team of investigators from Alexandroupolis, Greece, who compared levels of spectacle independence and visual symptoms in cataract surgical patients.
Two groups of age-matched patients with no ocular abnormality underwent cataract surgery performed by the same surgeon. One group received a refractive multifocal IOL (Isert PY60MV; Hoya Surgical Optics, Inc.) with both eyes targeted for plano, whereas the other comparative mini-monovision group received a monofocal aspheric IOL (SN60WF; Alcon Laboratories, Inc.) targeted for -0.50 D in the dominant eye and for -1.25 D in the other eye.
Pre- and postoperative evaluations were obtained with the Visual Function Index-14 (VF-14) to determine visual symptoms and general visual functionality. Uncorrected binocular near and distance vision were assessed, as well as the proportion of patients who were spectacle-dependent for near and distance vision.
Both the multifocal and mini-monovision groups achieved good binocular uncorrected distance vision. The multifocal lens provided better overall near vision than the -1.25 D target for mini-monovision. There were no differences between the two groups in contrast sensitivity, stereopsis, or VF-14 items pertaining to distance or near vision.
Approximately twice as many multifocal patients (66%) reported being spectacle free compared with mini-monovision patients (34%). However, dysphotopsia (shadows and glare) occurred much more frequently in multifocal patients than in mini-monovision patients.
COMMENTS: William Cuthbertson MD
Although two thirds of the multifocal group was "spectacle-free" in this study, spectacles are not expected to provide relief from dysphotopsias in multifocal emmetropic patients; therefore, patients would be "spectacle-free" no matter what their visual function.
An additional question that could be posed in these studies comparing multifocal IOLs with monovision would be, "Is your vision adequate to do everything that you want to do with ease, including if you wore glasses when you need to?" If the occasional need to wear glasses is included, the excellent vision without dysphotopsias afforded by monofocal monovision would reflect a very high level of visual satisfaction in virtually all patients.
In conclusion, although the term "mini-monovision" could be better defined for study purposes, the concept of providing proximal-range, convenient, and usually spectacle-free vision with simple monofocal IOLs is very appealing. It maintains justifiable advantages over more expensive, and sometimes problematic, multifocal IOLs.
Labiris G, Giarmoukakis A, Patsiamanidi M, Papadopoulos Z, Kozobolis VP
J Cataract Refract Surg. 2015;41:53-57
Study Summary
This study was performed by a team of investigators from Alexandroupolis, Greece, who compared levels of spectacle independence and visual symptoms in cataract surgical patients.
Two groups of age-matched patients with no ocular abnormality underwent cataract surgery performed by the same surgeon. One group received a refractive multifocal IOL (Isert PY60MV; Hoya Surgical Optics, Inc.) with both eyes targeted for plano, whereas the other comparative mini-monovision group received a monofocal aspheric IOL (SN60WF; Alcon Laboratories, Inc.) targeted for -0.50 D in the dominant eye and for -1.25 D in the other eye.
Pre- and postoperative evaluations were obtained with the Visual Function Index-14 (VF-14) to determine visual symptoms and general visual functionality. Uncorrected binocular near and distance vision were assessed, as well as the proportion of patients who were spectacle-dependent for near and distance vision.
Both the multifocal and mini-monovision groups achieved good binocular uncorrected distance vision. The multifocal lens provided better overall near vision than the -1.25 D target for mini-monovision. There were no differences between the two groups in contrast sensitivity, stereopsis, or VF-14 items pertaining to distance or near vision.
Approximately twice as many multifocal patients (66%) reported being spectacle free compared with mini-monovision patients (34%). However, dysphotopsia (shadows and glare) occurred much more frequently in multifocal patients than in mini-monovision patients.
COMMENTS: William Cuthbertson MD
Although two thirds of the multifocal group was "spectacle-free" in this study, spectacles are not expected to provide relief from dysphotopsias in multifocal emmetropic patients; therefore, patients would be "spectacle-free" no matter what their visual function.
An additional question that could be posed in these studies comparing multifocal IOLs with monovision would be, "Is your vision adequate to do everything that you want to do with ease, including if you wore glasses when you need to?" If the occasional need to wear glasses is included, the excellent vision without dysphotopsias afforded by monofocal monovision would reflect a very high level of visual satisfaction in virtually all patients.
In conclusion, although the term "mini-monovision" could be better defined for study purposes, the concept of providing proximal-range, convenient, and usually spectacle-free vision with simple monofocal IOLs is very appealing. It maintains justifiable advantages over more expensive, and sometimes problematic, multifocal IOLs.
May I ask a question? If the non-dominant eye has already been fitted with a mono-focal IOL would monovision still be achievable with a monofocal lens adjusted for near vision in the other eye, where a cataract is well developed ? A multifocal lens has been considered but in this situation it seems unlikely to me that even a top range multi-focal lens such as symphony would be a good solution. The patient reads and works on a computer a great deal and has accepted that driving at night is becoming increasingly hazardous. Distance vision in the operated eye is good if partially obscured by new floaters. Before the floaters they were no haloes or light distortion in the operated eye. Crucially, I suppose I am asking if a non dominant eye is corrected for distance vision only, is there really any choice for the other eye except the same thing, without taking a bit of a gamble?
May I ask a question? If the non-dominant eye has already been fitted with a mono-focal IOL would monovision still be achievable with a monofocal lens adjusted for near vision in the other eye, where a cataract is well developed ? A multifocal lens has been considered but in this situation it seems unlikely to me that even a top range multi-focal lens such as symphony would be a good solution. The patient reads and works on a computer a great deal and has accepted that driving at night is becoming increasingly hazardous. Distance vision in the operated eye is good if partially obscured by new floaters. Before the floaters they were no haloes or light distortion in the operated eye. Crucially, I suppose I am asking if a non dominant eye is corrected for distance vision only, is there really any choice for the other eye except the same thing, without taking a bit of a gamble?
See if your question isn't answered in the document: http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/841991/Consider-ALL-the-Options-Before-Your-Cataract-Surgery-Working-Through-Whats-Best-For-You
I guess your (Wolfhall) question would be-is it advisable to have monovision where the non dominant eye is corrected for distance and the dominant eye is corrected for near?
The important thing to bear in mind is that there is no 'right' or 'wrong' answer.
Usually, for refractive patients I do a trial of monovision with contact lenses, but this is obviously not so straightforward for patients with cataract, since the cataract also affects vision and would not give a good representation of the situation post -operatively.
So yes, it is a bit of a gamble if you operate on the other (dominant) eye and aim for myopia to achieve monovision. However
1. If prior to the cataract affecting your vision you already had monovision, and found it acceptable, then it would probably be OK to aim for this postoperatively as well.
2. If you aimed for monovision with the dominant eye for near, and did not like it, it is a fairly simple matter to make a pair of glasses and wear them. ie the stakes are lower with monovision compared with multifocal lenses where, if you could not stand the halos and other visual side effects, you may have to consider a lens exchange
Each lens has its pros and cons, benefits and limitations.
If you are talking about the Tecnis Symfony:
It extends your range of clear vision while avoiding most of the issues seen with traditional multifocals such as halos and reduced contrast.
But, clear vision with the Symfony, without glasses, is only from far to about arm's length (intermediate range). As long as you know what to expect, and are prepared for it, it is OK to have a monofocal in one eye and a Symfony in the other. In this situation, your distance will be pretty good in both eyes, and the Symfony in one eye will help you for intermediate vision so that you don't always have to look for your reading glasses. However, during periods where you have to do prolonged reading or computer work, reading glasses will probably still be necessary.
The important thing to bear in mind is that there is no 'right' or 'wrong' answer.
Usually, for refractive patients I do a trial of monovision with contact lenses, but this is obviously not so straightforward for patients with cataract, since the cataract also affects vision and would not give a good representation of the situation post -operatively.
So yes, it is a bit of a gamble if you operate on the other (dominant) eye and aim for myopia to achieve monovision. However
1. If prior to the cataract affecting your vision you already had monovision, and found it acceptable, then it would probably be OK to aim for this postoperatively as well.
2. If you aimed for monovision with the dominant eye for near, and did not like it, it is a fairly simple matter to make a pair of glasses and wear them. ie the stakes are lower with monovision compared with multifocal lenses where, if you could not stand the halos and other visual side effects, you may have to consider a lens exchange
Each lens has its pros and cons, benefits and limitations.
If you are talking about the Tecnis Symfony:
It extends your range of clear vision while avoiding most of the issues seen with traditional multifocals such as halos and reduced contrast.
But, clear vision with the Symfony, without glasses, is only from far to about arm's length (intermediate range). As long as you know what to expect, and are prepared for it, it is OK to have a monofocal in one eye and a Symfony in the other. In this situation, your distance will be pretty good in both eyes, and the Symfony in one eye will help you for intermediate vision so that you don't always have to look for your reading glasses. However, during periods where you have to do prolonged reading or computer work, reading glasses will probably still be necessary.
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Thank.you so much for these answers. After reading the first post and found it extremely helpful I have also consulted the referenced document and spent several hours reading associated posts and questions. I am so grateful to have discovered a place on the net where it is possible to access help for such an important medical decision. I will now make sure I understand the exact, current 'readings' for each eye before taking any action and have delayed surgery on my second eye. Once again, much thanks.
you're welcome
hello..my question is related to cataracts.my mother is scheduled for a cataract surgery.she has had a pdp (hair color) allergy 6months back.with severe swelling..we did not visit a doctor then .the swelling went away in 4 days after taking antihistamines 3 times daily and apllication of hydrocortisol cream..and washing the hair with hydrogen peroxide solution..i can she go for cataract surgery now.would it be harmful?
Only a physician that can actually examine her can tell you if there are any problems that might develop. However the circumstances you describe are not likely to leave any lasting effects.
JCH MD
JCH MD
I believe this study was sorely missing and I am very pleased that it was done!
Hi Doc, please can you help me with this issue, on 30th Jan. 2016, I had a MC and on the same day I had a d&c, after which I bled for about 1 week, so on 8th Feb, I had an unprotected sex with my husband and 2times again thereafter, then a week after we had the last sex, I began to feel another early pregnancy symptoms, I got a urine ptest and was still tested negative... pls I want u to tell me if am pregnant or not so that I will know how I would be able to take good care of my self because I don't want to have another mc. Thanks
Reply
Reply
This is an eye forum.
I had cataract surgery L eye 2/28/14 as a combo surgery with glaucoma surgery. I had just cataract surgery on R eye 5/2014. Starr mono vision IOLs. In the fall of 2014 I had the Yag procedure done in L eye and it caused the IOL to move off center and cause bright lines or reflexions in vision as well as slight blurring of vision. Yag on R eye followed month later with no problems.
I reported several times to ophthalmologist that L eye Yag procedure seemed much more traumatic than R eye Yag and L eye did not feel right and continued to feel badly after a year.
My L eye vision has continued to deteriorate and now near and far vision is much worse than before any surgery was done.
My cataract specialist did a 2nd L eye Yag procedure most likely not needed and further blurring occurred. Now I am told IOL is centered but could be moved slightly forward or backward causing bad focus and I could consider a piggyback IOL or wear glasses. I get migraines and dizziness when wearing glasses or contacts.
Do you have a suggestion for me and is a multifocal piggyback an option if I choose to take this route of correction?
FYI ... L eye Yag done by glaucoma specialist. R eye Yag done by cataract specialist. Both are in same practice together.
I reported several times to ophthalmologist that L eye Yag procedure seemed much more traumatic than R eye Yag and L eye did not feel right and continued to feel badly after a year.
My L eye vision has continued to deteriorate and now near and far vision is much worse than before any surgery was done.
My cataract specialist did a 2nd L eye Yag procedure most likely not needed and further blurring occurred. Now I am told IOL is centered but could be moved slightly forward or backward causing bad focus and I could consider a piggyback IOL or wear glasses. I get migraines and dizziness when wearing glasses or contacts.
Do you have a suggestion for me and is a multifocal piggyback an option if I choose to take this route of correction?
FYI ... L eye Yag done by glaucoma specialist. R eye Yag done by cataract specialist. Both are in same practice together.
Yes I would strongly suggest you get a couple of second opinions from surgeons outside the group you go to now. You want to check around for surgeons that handle post operative complications. Since you had glaucoma surgery that might complicate your options of a trabeculectomy was done. If you had a small valve like iStent put in it might not make much difference. I'm a big believer in second opinions. Get them often myself in my practice.
Thanks for all this information! I have had both eyes operated on with mono-focal lenses, and I am corrected for near vision. So I still need my glasses for distance (driving & tv), and I need magnification for very close vision. I am not unhappy with this, but I wish I had more information before being asked whether I wanted distance or near correction. What I felt I should have asked, was, "what do most people choose, and why?"
As for multi-focal lenses, the fact that my health insurance would not cover them made them not even a consideration. Interestingly, even with what is considered really good health insurance through my husband's employer, it still cost me nearly $1000 per eye. (Compared to the $50 copay my Medicare-eligible relative had to contribute.)
Still, I will be forever grateful for the surgery that has given me improved vision, and I sure do appreciate the superiority of our "original equipment"!
As for multi-focal lenses, the fact that my health insurance would not cover them made them not even a consideration. Interestingly, even with what is considered really good health insurance through my husband's employer, it still cost me nearly $1000 per eye. (Compared to the $50 copay my Medicare-eligible relative had to contribute.)
Still, I will be forever grateful for the surgery that has given me improved vision, and I sure do appreciate the superiority of our "original equipment"!
If you were totally unhappy you could have lasik on your dominant eye and correct it to distance and you would have mini-monofocal distance bias.
This is an interesting site.
I have worn glasses since age 2. I am 58 now. I wore soft contact lenses from age 1 until about 10 years ago. Now I only wear glasses because the contacts became useless. I tried hard lenses but discomfort, redness meant I couldn't wear them. Tried gas permeable: they hurt, red eyes just like hard. I was wearing soft contacts WITH glasses for most things so I just gave up on contacts.
I HATE wearing gasses even though I have really cool,stylish frames, ultrathin lenses, low glare etc. I pay between $1000. and $1200 for glasses - most of that because of my prescription. I also seem to be seeing 'worse' even though my prescription is only changing slightly over the last few years.
I would like to get surgery on my eyes but my ophthalmologist has always advised against it. He is conservative and I understand that if something went wrong with my right eye I would likely be unable to drive - and that is just NOT an option. I need to drive for my sales-related job and I could not afford not to work. I know there are different surgeries now but is there something that I could be 'guaranteed' the following: 1. my vision wouldn't be lost, 2. My eyesight wouldn' t be worse, 3. I could live without glasses.
I wouldn't mind if I occasionally had to use reading glasses, i.e. like in a dark restaurant with tiny writing on the menu.
But if there's a big risk of loss of sight, or the 'glare', & lack of contrast is too big a pricevto pay, or only a minor improvement would be gained then i think I'd suffer with the trifocals every waking hour. I just wouldnt be interested in paying that kind of money for little gain. I live in Ontario, Canada.
My Prescription (this isnt the latest but its the only one I could find right now)
OD: SPHERICAL+500, CYLINDRICAL +50, AXIS 55.
OS:+400, CYLINDRICAL +50 AXIS 135
ADD: +275
+275
Thank you
I have worn glasses since age 2. I am 58 now. I wore soft contact lenses from age 1 until about 10 years ago. Now I only wear glasses because the contacts became useless. I tried hard lenses but discomfort, redness meant I couldn't wear them. Tried gas permeable: they hurt, red eyes just like hard. I was wearing soft contacts WITH glasses for most things so I just gave up on contacts.
I HATE wearing gasses even though I have really cool,stylish frames, ultrathin lenses, low glare etc. I pay between $1000. and $1200 for glasses - most of that because of my prescription. I also seem to be seeing 'worse' even though my prescription is only changing slightly over the last few years.
I would like to get surgery on my eyes but my ophthalmologist has always advised against it. He is conservative and I understand that if something went wrong with my right eye I would likely be unable to drive - and that is just NOT an option. I need to drive for my sales-related job and I could not afford not to work. I know there are different surgeries now but is there something that I could be 'guaranteed' the following: 1. my vision wouldn't be lost, 2. My eyesight wouldn' t be worse, 3. I could live without glasses.
I wouldn't mind if I occasionally had to use reading glasses, i.e. like in a dark restaurant with tiny writing on the menu.
But if there's a big risk of loss of sight, or the 'glare', & lack of contrast is too big a pricevto pay, or only a minor improvement would be gained then i think I'd suffer with the trifocals every waking hour. I just wouldnt be interested in paying that kind of money for little gain. I live in Ontario, Canada.
My Prescription (this isnt the latest but its the only one I could find right now)
OD: SPHERICAL+500, CYLINDRICAL +50, AXIS 55.
OS:+400, CYLINDRICAL +50 AXIS 135
ADD: +275
+275
Thank you
No there is nothing that is guaranteed in medicine especially surgery. Your eye shape is extremely difficult to fix, you are farsighted and lasik not work well for that. If you develop cataracts on down the line your glasses can be made much thinner and likely some things you can do without glasses but refractive surgery will always involve some risk and yours is tough.
Hello Doctor,
I am 61 years old and diabetic.I lost my left eye in an accident at the age of 3 years while playing bow and arrow game with my brother.Then onwards, my eye vision has gone. Now, I am with glasses for shortsight. I am doing 4miles walk for one hour 30 minutes. Controlling my sugar levels and checking BP, and consuming low calories are my aim. Is this sufficient to maintain good vision. I will be visiting the eye doctor once in a year for my vision testing. for the last few years.Please suggest me if any thing I am not caring. My blood sugar A1C is below 9 and I am trying to bring it to 8 or 7 within a couple of months. Thanks in advance.
I am 61 years old and diabetic.I lost my left eye in an accident at the age of 3 years while playing bow and arrow game with my brother.Then onwards, my eye vision has gone. Now, I am with glasses for shortsight. I am doing 4miles walk for one hour 30 minutes. Controlling my sugar levels and checking BP, and consuming low calories are my aim. Is this sufficient to maintain good vision. I will be visiting the eye doctor once in a year for my vision testing. for the last few years.Please suggest me if any thing I am not caring. My blood sugar A1C is below 9 and I am trying to bring it to 8 or 7 within a couple of months. Thanks in advance.
You need to discuss the A1C test with your physicians. If that is the standard test normal is 5.7 or less. Ideal place for a diabetic to be is low 6's e.g. 6.1 an A1C of 7 is NOT GOOD and higher than 7 is really bad. So the #1 thing would be to get your A1C down to a much better level. Discuss with your physician and read on the internet about the A1C test.
I appreciate your very speedy reply. Thank you Doctor
Yes other things: don't smoke or use nicotine products, don't use cannabis. exercise regularly, watch your diet very carefully, watch your weight. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under good control. Don't drink alcohol excessively. Practice relaxation and controlling your anxiety and depression. Have many friends and socialize. Have a philosophy or life or religious system that gives you inner peace and tranquility.
To Kamalakar,
have you consider implementable Contact Lense (ICL)? i too suffer from inconvenience of glasses and discomfort of contact lens. I went with ICL when I was 45 knowing that I might need reading glasses when I get old. I got good 7 years of clear vision and my life took an exciting turn. hiking, swimming, scuba, fishing and partying. I wish I would have done it earlier.
'
To Dr. Hagan,
Now I am 52 and have minor cataract on my right eye. I currently have ICL with right eye set for monovision. I am looking into Crystalens and Softec HD. My doctor is recommending Softec and setting it for distance. What is your opinions between these two lenses, and should I go with distance or monovision on my right eye?
have you consider implementable Contact Lense (ICL)? i too suffer from inconvenience of glasses and discomfort of contact lens. I went with ICL when I was 45 knowing that I might need reading glasses when I get old. I got good 7 years of clear vision and my life took an exciting turn. hiking, swimming, scuba, fishing and partying. I wish I would have done it earlier.
'
To Dr. Hagan,
Now I am 52 and have minor cataract on my right eye. I currently have ICL with right eye set for monovision. I am looking into Crystalens and Softec HD. My doctor is recommending Softec and setting it for distance. What is your opinions between these two lenses, and should I go with distance or monovision on my right eye?
First read this article carefully, then read it again: http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/1648102/Consider-ALL-the-Options-Before-Your-Cataract-Surgery-Working-Through-Whats-Best-For-You ;
Do you realize that cataract are a known complication of ICL?
If you have a "minor cataract" you don't need cataract surgery. Cataracts only need to be removed if they are moderate or large in size and causing moderate or large disability. The surgery while common and low complication is not NO complication as a quick review of the many patients posting on the eye forum with problem related to cataract surgery.
Do you realize that cataract are a known complication of ICL?
If you have a "minor cataract" you don't need cataract surgery. Cataracts only need to be removed if they are moderate or large in size and causing moderate or large disability. The surgery while common and low complication is not NO complication as a quick review of the many patients posting on the eye forum with problem related to cataract surgery.
Hi Dr John. I have what feels like pressure around my right eye and blurry vision in that eye.Also the feeling of the eyelid being heavier (although both eyelids are equally open). No trauma. I don't spend more than an hour in front of a screen most days. I can't pinpoint the exact day that it started, but approxmately 9 months ago. I am a healthy 48 year old female on no meds and enough excercise. I had a thorough check up at the opthalmologist 2 months ago and he couldn't tell me what the issue could be: I have small cataracts that are apparently normal; Interoccular pressure normal; my left eye 0.75 and the right 0.5 (although when I close my left eye, close up writing is more blurry); no glasses ever.
I have consulted Dr Google and came across a forum where someone had a similar issue and mentioned blocked sinuses that cause pressure on the optic nerve. I do need to use a handkerchief from time to time. I'm not sure if it's my imagination, but it feels more comfortable to keep my right eye at "half mast" when in the sun. It seems like there is still that "pressure"on my right eye when lying in a dark room.
Please advise if I should go to an ear nose and throat surgeon to check out my sinuses or even do a CT scan?
I have consulted Dr Google and came across a forum where someone had a similar issue and mentioned blocked sinuses that cause pressure on the optic nerve. I do need to use a handkerchief from time to time. I'm not sure if it's my imagination, but it feels more comfortable to keep my right eye at "half mast" when in the sun. It seems like there is still that "pressure"on my right eye when lying in a dark room.
Please advise if I should go to an ear nose and throat surgeon to check out my sinuses or even do a CT scan?
This does not belong in this discussion thread. Please cut and paste it into the Eye Forum and I'll be happy to answer.
I am very happy to have found this sight. I had cataract surgery on my left (dominant) eye and a Toric MFL was put in.last April. I also had lasik performed to correct astigmatism. From the first day when I came back for my follow up I told the Dr. that the lights looked like Christmas bell ornaments. That went in one year and out the other. He checked my eye and said it looked "OK". come back in a couple of weeks . It needs time to heal and the swelling to go down. I did not seem to have a swelling issue and by the next appointment nothing had changed. I did not know what to call my problem so I said I have double vision but that was not the right description so the next appointment I was calling it a ghost image. The truth is I have 3 dominant images that have 3 or 4 more riding on them also. Then as I was "healing" it became more evident that I had an abnormal amount of glare, most evident with bright light like headlights. This starburst is like a dandelion with bright lights at the edge of the ghost which gives off more star glare and makes the light look like it is incased like a bagworm nest in a tree. This makes driving quite dangerous and (I make amateur videos) makes focusing a camera quite difficult. I am a Metrology engineer and perform repair on electronic test equipment. These conditions make tracing and following wiring and reading schematics very difficult. I have not had anything done to my right eye yet am waiting to see if my left eye can be fixed. The Dr. said he could put in a "piggy back " lens in but changed his mind and did a lasik procedure to correct the alignment of the lens that he said was 1.5 off center and should have been less than .5 off center. I expected this to correct my problems with this lens but after 5 months I still have the starburst and ghost images. My question is does this ring a bell (no pun intended) and can this be corrected? Do I need to see a cornea specialist? Am I going to be disabled in this eye and should I have a non multifocal lens put in my right eye? Is the ghost image caused by a distorted surface of my cornea causing it to act like a prism? What are my options?
JRSDREECE: your posting would be good for the eye community and others can read and learn. Also we have many very accurate and precise posters who have had this type of surgery who often offer their experience. So please cut and paste into the eye forum and I will be happy to answer. JHaganMD FACS FAAO
Dear Dr. John, I had cataract surgery in my left eye in May 2016 . Six weeks later I had a detached retina in that eye. Then five months later (Oct 2016) was told my lens had rotated. Dr now says he can go back in to correct that and then do a PRK to help my vision. I am so afraid of having another surgery because of the risks involved. I was told that the capsule surrounding the lens could be punctured, In researching, I found other risks of infection or another detached retina. I went for two other opinions. One said he would not advise it. Another gave me two options 1) take the risks, then do a YAG procedure, then do PRK if needed for better visual outcome. Option 2) Only do the YAG and then PRK.
I am a healthy 73 yr old. I had cataract surgery 10 yrs ago in my right eye with no problems but could use a touch up PRK now for that eye. Also 12 yrs ago I had monovision lasic done, left eye for reading, right for distance and had no problems. One question, can myopic vision in my left eye cause a detached retina? What are the chances of puncturing the capsule after this length of time? What are the chances of another detached retina? My retina has healed well from the previous surgery. I cannot drive at night now because of the halos and starburst but do fine with glasses during the day to drive. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
I am a healthy 73 yr old. I had cataract surgery 10 yrs ago in my right eye with no problems but could use a touch up PRK now for that eye. Also 12 yrs ago I had monovision lasic done, left eye for reading, right for distance and had no problems. One question, can myopic vision in my left eye cause a detached retina? What are the chances of puncturing the capsule after this length of time? What are the chances of another detached retina? My retina has healed well from the previous surgery. I cannot drive at night now because of the halos and starburst but do fine with glasses during the day to drive. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
If you have seen the retina surgeon on numerous occasions, as I know you have, and they have not noted any problems in RE (such as holes, tears, lattice-thin areas) and not recommended any preventive treatment such as laser or cold treatment (cryotherapy) then the risk of a RD in your RE is probably around 5-10% maybe better depending on what your retina looks like and your refractive error prior to surgery (higher if you were a high myopic). Myopia does not cause RD but its a risk factor if especially if greater than -6.00 diopters of myopia. Cataract surgery increases risk of RD even small incision, no stitch but much lower than it used to be with big incision and stitches.
If your retina Eye MD would sign off on getting a Yag laser capsulotomy then that would be an acceptable risk and might make a huge improvement in your vision. Opening eye and rotating IOL is a much bigger operation than Yag cap followed by PRK. If the IOL is not severely rotated then optical problems can usually be corrected with glasses, contacts or refractive cornea surgery. I would strongly suggest you run these options by your retina surgeon and if he/she signs off maybe get a third opinion as if a Yag and PRK will do as well as opening eye and doing an intraoperative procedure you likely will be better off with less usrgery.
If your retina Eye MD would sign off on getting a Yag laser capsulotomy then that would be an acceptable risk and might make a huge improvement in your vision. Opening eye and rotating IOL is a much bigger operation than Yag cap followed by PRK. If the IOL is not severely rotated then optical problems can usually be corrected with glasses, contacts or refractive cornea surgery. I would strongly suggest you run these options by your retina surgeon and if he/she signs off maybe get a third opinion as if a Yag and PRK will do as well as opening eye and doing an intraoperative procedure you likely will be better off with less usrgery.
Thank you for your timely response.
you are welcome
I know I should provide numbers here, but at moment can't find,
I am a young 70. Have had cataracts number of years (seemed way too early, don't think my progenitors had, but who knows).
I use progressive lenses, a top brand it seems.
Need for glasses started at age 16 in college, I am not unhappy wearing glasses. over the years I had to get progressives, still not unhappy. Right eye was always far better, but cataracts in both, and the one in right eye, is larger? and in any case, right in center, such that night driving, with oncoming lights, is a killer,
On dark country roads, no problems. Cataract md who haven't seen in 3 years, told me, "you will know when you need surgery".. Been seeing someone else since cataract guy's staff refused to give me appt at NY Eye and Ear, told me that a different problem that i thought i might have (after head blow, and yes, blood red down, and healed). They said he is only cataracts. well, WOW WOW. i had seen him couple of years,
So i've been seeing someone else last 2 years. She agrees that it's up to me. it seems that changes have slowed down. (and I actually like wearing glasses).
OK, got to stop going on and on. I am not unhappy with the vision I have with the progressives.
although i find myself closing right eye when i read, (unconsciously).
I am planning appt with the non cataract person in few months, she has no opinion re surgery,
So: after all of this: HERE IS THE QUESTION. if I am not unhappy with progressive eyeglasses and their level of correction, after reading about all sorts of possible issues from cataract surgery, (yes, possible) I am a non-interventionist person.
Would I be crazy to have cataract surgery on the right eye the one with the larger cataract, smack in middle,?? making nighttime driving scary (hey, those huge overhead signs, green with , not sure, lights? but on major highways that i am not familiar with, scary).
Would i have to be crazy to risk any of possible side effects. , glare (hey, that is the problem), as side effect, that would be crazy, INSANE to have side effect identical to original complaint???
I would like to feel free to drive summer vacations at night. otherwise, the level of correction, sheesh, i can find the rx for computer glasses, which i never got, but not total RX), is sufficient for me.
Strange that the far better right eye, re long distance, is no longer the better one due to the larger cataract, very very central, affecting nighttime driving,
With all of the possible side effects, yes, i know, Possible, halos, omg, that is what i have at night,
would i have to be crazy to consider cataract surgery? i think they are not growing, but do not know re age effects, i.e. at 70? will that create problems? could they harden, if they do not increase in size anymore, would that be an issue????
I am non interventionist person, natural childbirth, is one example. others,
Also, it seems that the number of options re lens replacement is extraordinary, too complex for my mensa brain,
and if I did right eye, would I be compelled to do left afterwords,
I know i am not giving numbers here, (can't find script, and ;perhaps not relevant?)/
Should i stay with my lifetime motto, less is better?
What is percent of problems (OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER) after cataract surgery? Is this a gamble worth taking? was totally stressed out driving back to NY from Mass. after visiting progeny
yup, can avoid nighttime driving, are the cataracts only cause of difficulties in nighttime driving for a young 70 year old???
Too many questions, but in final analysis, it is really only one.
Thank you for any input, or even suggestions re reading.
I am a young 70. Have had cataracts number of years (seemed way too early, don't think my progenitors had, but who knows).
I use progressive lenses, a top brand it seems.
Need for glasses started at age 16 in college, I am not unhappy wearing glasses. over the years I had to get progressives, still not unhappy. Right eye was always far better, but cataracts in both, and the one in right eye, is larger? and in any case, right in center, such that night driving, with oncoming lights, is a killer,
On dark country roads, no problems. Cataract md who haven't seen in 3 years, told me, "you will know when you need surgery".. Been seeing someone else since cataract guy's staff refused to give me appt at NY Eye and Ear, told me that a different problem that i thought i might have (after head blow, and yes, blood red down, and healed). They said he is only cataracts. well, WOW WOW. i had seen him couple of years,
So i've been seeing someone else last 2 years. She agrees that it's up to me. it seems that changes have slowed down. (and I actually like wearing glasses).
OK, got to stop going on and on. I am not unhappy with the vision I have with the progressives.
although i find myself closing right eye when i read, (unconsciously).
I am planning appt with the non cataract person in few months, she has no opinion re surgery,
So: after all of this: HERE IS THE QUESTION. if I am not unhappy with progressive eyeglasses and their level of correction, after reading about all sorts of possible issues from cataract surgery, (yes, possible) I am a non-interventionist person.
Would I be crazy to have cataract surgery on the right eye the one with the larger cataract, smack in middle,?? making nighttime driving scary (hey, those huge overhead signs, green with , not sure, lights? but on major highways that i am not familiar with, scary).
Would i have to be crazy to risk any of possible side effects. , glare (hey, that is the problem), as side effect, that would be crazy, INSANE to have side effect identical to original complaint???
I would like to feel free to drive summer vacations at night. otherwise, the level of correction, sheesh, i can find the rx for computer glasses, which i never got, but not total RX), is sufficient for me.
Strange that the far better right eye, re long distance, is no longer the better one due to the larger cataract, very very central, affecting nighttime driving,
With all of the possible side effects, yes, i know, Possible, halos, omg, that is what i have at night,
would i have to be crazy to consider cataract surgery? i think they are not growing, but do not know re age effects, i.e. at 70? will that create problems? could they harden, if they do not increase in size anymore, would that be an issue????
I am non interventionist person, natural childbirth, is one example. others,
Also, it seems that the number of options re lens replacement is extraordinary, too complex for my mensa brain,
and if I did right eye, would I be compelled to do left afterwords,
I know i am not giving numbers here, (can't find script, and ;perhaps not relevant?)/
Should i stay with my lifetime motto, less is better?
What is percent of problems (OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER) after cataract surgery? Is this a gamble worth taking? was totally stressed out driving back to NY from Mass. after visiting progeny
yup, can avoid nighttime driving, are the cataracts only cause of difficulties in nighttime driving for a young 70 year old???
Too many questions, but in final analysis, it is really only one.
Thank you for any input, or even suggestions re reading.
I will make one posting here but if you need follow up please post this to the general clinic so the discussion can be viewed by a larger number of people.
You will not get the reassurances you want in a less than perfect world and especially in medicine. I can understand the reluctance of your physicians to do surgery until you say "I understand the risks and I want the surgery"
With an experienced surgeon and a normal risk patient the operation will be complication free 97-99% of the time. That does not mean the person is happy or can see 20/20. Some people have multiple eye problems and when the cataract is removed do not have an eye capable of seeing 20/20. Some people hate glasses and want to see like they saw when they were 12 years old. You get a new lens but not a new eye.
Basically I ask a my patients: For everything you need to do and want to do visually over the last 6 months tell me how big of a problem is it for you: No problem? Small Problem? Medium Problem, Big Problem. If the answer is no or small I tell them we won't do the surgery until they believe it a medium or big problem. IF they commit they must understand the risks. We take risks all the time. Getting in an automobile is one of the riskiest things we do. When you feel your vision is a medium or big problem then find a surgeon you trust and can communicate with and work through all your other reservations and concerns. Remember cataract/IOL surgery is the most common and successful operation done on adults.
You will not get the reassurances you want in a less than perfect world and especially in medicine. I can understand the reluctance of your physicians to do surgery until you say "I understand the risks and I want the surgery"
With an experienced surgeon and a normal risk patient the operation will be complication free 97-99% of the time. That does not mean the person is happy or can see 20/20. Some people have multiple eye problems and when the cataract is removed do not have an eye capable of seeing 20/20. Some people hate glasses and want to see like they saw when they were 12 years old. You get a new lens but not a new eye.
Basically I ask a my patients: For everything you need to do and want to do visually over the last 6 months tell me how big of a problem is it for you: No problem? Small Problem? Medium Problem, Big Problem. If the answer is no or small I tell them we won't do the surgery until they believe it a medium or big problem. IF they commit they must understand the risks. We take risks all the time. Getting in an automobile is one of the riskiest things we do. When you feel your vision is a medium or big problem then find a surgeon you trust and can communicate with and work through all your other reservations and concerns. Remember cataract/IOL surgery is the most common and successful operation done on adults.
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