Breaking Free From Glass: How Modern Eye Surgery Can Restore Your Vision At Any Age

In today's fast-paced world, where you are reliant on phone and laptop screens for hours, it is common for the people in and above their 30s to wear glasses routinely. This reliance on spectacles for clear vision can be burdensome for many. However, with the fortunate existence of technology, there are several options available for modern eye surgery that break you free from the glasses and help you restore your vision at any age. 

To understand more about modern eye surgery, how it can give you freedom from your glasses and restore your vision at any age, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr Shreyas Iyer,  The Eye Foundation.

Common Eye Disorders 

Dr Iyer said, “Today, adults above the age of 30 in India routinely wear glasses  and 54% of people in India stated they feel older by wearing them. Nearly 50% of those above the age of 40 are unable to read properly without spectacles because of a refractive error related to age called presbyopia.” 

Many individuals also require cylindrical power in their spectacles to correct astigmatism, a condition where the eye's irregular shape causes distorted vision. These refractive errors, including presbyopia and astigmatism, worsen with age, leading to blurry and distorted vision. Additionally, cataracts, a condition once thought to affect only those over 60, are now increasingly diagnosed in individuals in their 40s and 50s.

Also read: These 5 Vitamins Are Essential To Protect Your Eyes Amid Heatwave

Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

Cataracts cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or eye drops. Surgical removal is the only solution. This procedure involves replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). "96% of cataract patients plan their surgery after diagnosis," Dr. Iyer explains, "and choosing the right lens can feel urgent."

There are various IOLs available. Basic monofocal IOLs correct only distant vision, meaning patients often need reading glasses post-surgery. However, advanced options like trifocal or multifocal IOLs can correct vision at all distances. For those with astigmatism, toric IOLs are available.

Also read: Can Cataract Be Prevented? Doctor Shares Tips To Avoid It

Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs

Modern life often demands good vision at intermediate distances, particularly for computer use. This can be achieved with Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs. "Over 90% of Indians aged 50 and above are willing to invest in lens solutions that could reduce their dependence on glasses," Dr. Iyer notes.

For those in their 40s or 50s diagnosed with cataracts, advanced IOLs offer significant benefits. They provide the freedom to engage in activities like driving, reading, watching TV, and swimming without the need for glasses. It’s crucial for patients to discuss their lifestyle, work, and hobbies with their eye surgeon to ensure the best IOL choice. Surgeons consider factors such as the power of current spectacles, the shape and size of the eyeball, and any other health conditions like diabetes before recommending an IOL.

Informed Decisions and Trust in Your Surgeon

Patients need to trust their surgeon's expertise while also being informed about their options. An open discussion with the eye surgeon helps in making the right choice of IOL tailored to the patient's visual requirements.

A cataract diagnosis, especially at an early age, can be unsettling. However, advanced IOLs not only restore clear vision but also correct pre-existing vision problems such as astigmatism, providing a clear and active lifestyle without the need for glasses. Modern eye surgery, with its advanced IOLs, offers a path to freedom from glasses at any age, ensuring clear vision and a better quality of life.