How Does Monovision LASIK Differ From Regular LASIK?

LASIK vision correction is the most commonly performed elective surgery worldwide. The procedure has helped to correct the vision of many people over the years. When it comes to the actual procedure, the surgeon will choose a technique depending on the patient’s needs. 

Apart from the regular LASIK, there is also monovision LASIK. It is vital to understand how monovision LASIK differs from regular LASIK. 

Regular LASIK

The traditional or regular LASIK procedure is simple, and the doctor uses an advanced laser. The surgery involves altering the shape of the cornea. This is the clear, dome-shaped part of the eye. 

The procedure alters the cornea to allow light to pass through properly. This can help permanently correct the vision of patients who have myopia, farsightedness, or astigmatism. These are conditions that occur when light is refracted abnormally by the cornea.

Monovision LASIK

Monovision LASIK involves setting the two eyes for different distances. The dominant eye is set to enable clear distance vision, while the other is for clear close vision. This allows the patient to see perfectly at the two distances.

When the eyes are open, the brain blends the two distances to create clear images at any distance. It usually takes a couple of weeks to get used to monovision, but most patients adjust quickly.

Candidates for Monovision

Monovision LASIK is ideal for patients over 40 years old who have presbyopia. Presbyopia is a condition that occurs when the natural eye lens becomes less flexible, making it difficult to focus on near objects. 

This age-related condition leaves the patient relying on prescription lenses for activities like reading and watching TV. Presbyopia usually begins at age 40 and gets progressively worse until 65. Presbyopia can occur even after a patient has had regular LASIK. 

Benefits of Monovision LASIK

Monovision LASIK can help you achieve clear near and distance vision. Other benefits of the procedure include great results and affordability. The procedure is quick, and there is very little pain or discomfort. 

If you are interested in the procedure, the eye doctor can recommend you wear monovision contacts before you get the surgery. The contact lenses will give you a taste of what you can expect after the surgery. Monovision can be used with procedures like implantation of IOLs, PRK, cataract surgery using premium IOLs, and refractive lens exchange.

Risks and Complications

Before getting any LASIK procedure, you need to understand the risks and complications. LASIK surgery can lead to the development of dry eye, infection, and dissatisfaction with the results. 

If you consider getting monovision LASIK, you need to be aware that you may end up losing depth perception. With one eye focusing at one distance and the other at another, depth perception becomes a problem. You may also need to use glasses to perform some tasks.

The cost of monovision LASIK and regular LASIK is generally the same. Insurance does not usually cover the procedures, but you can talk to the eye specialist about financing options. 

For more information on how monovision LASIK differs from regular LASIK, visit Coastal Vision Medical Group at our offices in Chino, Irvine, Long Beach, Norco, or Orange, California. You can call (888) 501-4496 today to schedule an appointment.