Freedom from Glasses in Your Golden Years
Embrace Getting Older with Grace
Aging is a natural part of life, and so are the changes in our vision. Cataracts can gradually affect our ability to see clearly, but thanks to advancements in modern refractive cataract surgery, you can regain clear vision and potentially eliminate the need for glasses. Imagine no longer having to search for your reading or bifocal glasses—this is an investment in your quality of life.
Scientific literature shows that 90% of individuals who opt for multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) after cataract surgery do not require spectacles for distance, intermediate, or near vision, though reading glasses may still be needed for prolonged reading sessions.
Higher Satisfaction with Spectacle Independence
Choosing to be free from glasses after cataract surgery has led to higher satisfaction rates among patients. In an FDA clinical study, more than 99% of patients who received multifocal lenses said they would choose the same option again. By choosing premium lens implants, you can enjoy clearer vision at multiple distances without the inconvenience of switching between different pairs of glasses.
The Latest Advances in Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most highly perfected surgical procedures, boasting a success rate of over 98%. Today, patients have the option of choosing multifocal and extended depth-of-field lenses, which enhance vision clarity and reduce the need for glasses.
Customizing your lens selection to match your lifestyle ensures optimal results. If spectacle independence is your goal, your ophthalmologist will carefully evaluate your eye health to determine the best lens option for you.
When Should You Consider Cataract Surgery?
The natural lens inside your eye is clear and flexible when you’re born, allowing light to pass through without distortion. However, with age, the lens loses its clarity and flexibility, leading to glare, faded colours, and blurry vision.
During standard cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is replaced with a mono-focal lens, which typically still requires the use of glasses for most activities. Multifocal lenses, on the other hand, provide a broader range of vision, allowing you to enjoy better quality eyesight and reducing the need for corrective eyewear. This means surgery can be performed earlier, even while your natural lens is still relatively clear, offering excellent visual outcomes.
The Link Between Progressive Spectacle Lenses and Fall Risk
What Are Progressive Spectacle Lenses?
Progressive lenses are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances, eliminating the need for separate reading and distance glasses. They contain three vision zones:
- Distance Vision (Top of the Lens): For looking at far-away objects.
- Intermediate Vision (Middle of the Lens): Ideal for computer work and viewing objects within arm’s length.
- Near Vision (Bottom of the Lens): Optimized for close-up activities, such as reading.
The Downside of Progressive Lenses
While progressive lenses offer convenience, they can also present challenges. The transition between different vision zones can cause peripheral distortion and an impaired view of the ground, increasing the risk of falls. Studies have shown that wearing multifocal lenses, including progressive lenses and bifocals, can increase the risk of tripping by 2.3 times.
Harvard Medical School explains that when walking, we typically see the ground from about five to six feet away. However, the focal length of the lower part of progressive lenses is only about one foot, which can blur the ground and impair depth perception—exactly where you need clear vision to avoid obstacles.
To minimize fall risks, patients using progressive lenses should:
- Lower their chin when walking on uneven surfaces or stairs.
- Consider having a pair of single-focus distance glasses for outdoor use.
- Be mindful of changes in their prescription strength, as stronger reading corrections may worsen peripheral distortion.
Additional Benefits of Multifocal Lenses at the Time of Cataract Surgery
Beyond fall prevention, multifocal lenses offer a range of benefits that significantly enhance daily life:
- Improved Quality of Life: By reducing dependence on glasses, multifocal lenses allow for greater freedom in everyday activities such as driving, reading, and using digital devices.
- Enhanced Depth Perception: Unlike progressive glasses, multifocal IOLs provide more natural depth perception, reducing the risk of missteps and enhancing spatial awareness.
- No Peripheral Distortion: Unlike progressive spectacle lenses, multifocal IOLs do not have the same visual distortions, offering clearer and more stable vision.
- Greater Convenience: Eliminates the hassle of constantly switching between reading and distance glasses.
- Long-Term Cost Savings: While there may be an upfront cost, multifocal lenses reduce the need for expensive prescription glasses over time.
Will My Medical Aid Pay for Cataract Surgery?
The short answer is: Yes! Cataracts are classified as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition, meaning that medical aids are legally required to cover standard cataract surgery with a monofocal lens. However, this means you will still need to wear glasses. There may be a copayment if your surgeon is not contracted with your medical aid. At Sandton Eye Clinic we charge Discovery Classic rates.
If you choose premium refractive cataract surgery with multifocal lenses to achieve spectacle independence, you will likely have a co-payment for the premium lenses. The remainder of the surgery cost will be covered by your medical aid as mentioned before. While there may be an out-of-pocket cost, freedom from glasses ultimately results in long-term savings on eyewear and an improved quality of life.
Additionally, your medical aid will cover a pre-surgery consultation with your ophthalmologist, which is typically paid from your day-to-day or savings benefits. If your doctor does not have a direct contract with your medical aid, they may charge above the scheme rate, resulting in a potential co-payment.
Invest in Your Vision at the Time of Cataract Surgery
Choosing refractive cataract surgery is more than just a medical decision—it’s a lifestyle investment. By opting for multifocal lenses, you can experience clearer vision, improved mobility, and greater freedom from glasses. If you’re considering cataract surgery and want to explore your options, book a consultation with Sandton Eye Clinic today. Our team will help you find the best solution tailored to your unique vision needs.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not replace a consultation with your ophthalmologist or refractive surgeon. Refractive cataract surgery is a lifestyle choice for those seeking to reduce their dependence on spectacles. If you are comfortable wearing glasses, standard cataract surgery remains an excellent option. Each patient’s vision needs are unique, and your surgeon can provide personalised advice based on a comprehensive eye assessment.
