Understanding the Monovision LASIK Procedure
You may have heard about Monovision LASIK and done some research regarding this unique technique. When a patient receives Monovision LASIK, one eye is corrected to see distance and the other eye is corrected for up close vision. This procedure uses the same technology as traditional LASIK and relies on advanced lasers to reshape the cornea. You can learn more by checking out our comprehensive guide to monovision LASIK.
We wanted to call out some simple pros and cons that may help patients gain a better understanding of the monovision lasik procedure and determine, with the help of their primary eye doctor, whether it is the best course of vision correction for them.
- CON: Some Monovision LASIK patients have trouble adjusting to the imbalance between their eyes.
However, this is why in nearly all cases, the eye surgeon will prescribe contact lenses prior to the patient undergoing Monovision LASIK. This helps the patient understand the experience of anisometropia—the imbalance between the eyes—and get a sense of whether they can tolerate it. And, if you do experience this following surgery, your eye doctor can help you alleviate these symptoms. If you cannot adjust, the monovision can be removed. - PRO: Monovision LASIK can help reduce your use and reliance on reading glasses.
Many patients in their 40s choose this procedure and successfully adjust to the balance of using one eye for near viewing and the other eye for distance—and that means less time wearing reading glasses. - CON: The Monovision recovery time is slightly more intensive than traditional LASIK.
In addition to adjusting to anisometropia, the patient may also experience glares and halos, reduced vision at night, reduced depth perception, and blurry distance or reading vision. - PRO: The Monovision LASIK procedure is quick and painless.
Just like with traditional LASIK surgery, the eye surgeon will use lasers to create the corneal flap and reshape the eye for vision correction. - CON: Your occupation may impact your eligibility for Monovision LASIK.
If your career demands clear vision without variation, you may not be a good fit for Monovision LASIK. For example, pilots, professional athletes, truck drivers, and other individuals who rely on their vision may not be good candidates. - PRO: Monovision LASIK delivers proven results.
Many patients successfully adjust to Monovision LASIK. According to the Review of Ophthalmology, one study showed near acuity improved to 20/40 or better in more than 88 percent of patients that underwent monovision LASIK.
If you are considering Monovision LASIK, the best place to start is by having a conversation with our team. We can help you take the first steps toward correcting your vision.
