Monovision

What is monovision?

Monovision is a treatment option for presbyopia, which is a normal ageing process of the eye which makes reading and seeing objects up close more difficult, usually from your mid-40s onwards.

In monovision, intraocular lenses (IOLs) of different powers are implanted in each eye so that one eye (typically the dominant eye) is corrected for distance vision and the other eye for near vision. This helps to increase your spread of focus so that with both eyes open, you can have clearer vision over a wider range of distances (far and near) and reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses for reading.

What are the benefits of monovision?

Monovision reduces or may even eliminate your dependence on reading glasses. With one eye corrected for clear distance vision and the other eye for near vision, you have the benefit of a wider range of focus with both eyes working together.

Am I suitable for monovision?

Monovision is usually recommended for presbyopic patients who are aged 45 years or older, if you wish to have greater freedom from reading glasses.

Monovision requires the brain to adapt to both eyes seeing slightly differently for distance and near. Some people do very well with monovision straightaway while others may need some time to adapt. This adjustment period may take days to weeks. A small number of patients may not like monovision at all. Dr Goh may recommend a contact lens trial to simulate monovision to help you decide if monovision is right for you.

How can monovision be achieved?

Monovision can be achieved if you are over the age of 45 and undergoing any of the following refractive procedures:

• LASIK laser eye surgery
• PRK laser eye surgery
• Cataract surgery
• Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)