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Presbyopia or the need for reading spectacles is a problem that starts to present when we enter our 40s. This is the result of our natural lens becoming stiffer and less able to change thickness and allow us to focus on near objects without blurring. This often occurs in association with dysfunctional lens syndrome and can be problematic as we approach middle age.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Spectacles and Contact Lenses form the mainstay of non-surgical treatment options. They are non-invasive and generally safe. They can however be quite inconvenient.
Surgical Treatment
1. Laser Eye Surgery
This utilises a laser to alter the shape of the cornea to alter how it focuses the image on the retina. Procedures include PRK, LASIK and LASEK. Each of these options have their pros and cons and your refractive surgeon should discuss these with you. This option may be slightly limited in middle aged people as they will often have some cataract or dysfunctional lens syndrome.
2. Lens Surgery
Often referred to as Clear Lens Extraction (CLE) or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), this procedure involves the removal of the natural lens and placing a clear artificial lens in its place to correct the prescription. This option can correct both the distance and near vision depending on the type of intraocular lens chosen with the use of Trifocal or Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses.
