As we move into our late 40’s, the natural lens inside the eye loses its flexibility, affecting the ability to focus up close, causing many patients to require reading glasses, bifocals or progressive glasses. The lens has begun to lose its function, causing the patient to experience Stage 1 of Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome (DLS). Another term for Stage 1 DLS is Presbyopia.
As the patient moves into their 50’s, the lens also begins to become less clear, leading to light scatter and glare, particularly in dim lighting situations. This phenomenon describes Stage 2 of Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome.
Stage 3 of Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome, typically occurring when a patient is in their 60’s, is characterized by significant loss of visual function due to a clouding of the lens called a cataract.
While all individuals will go through the stages of DLS as they age, each patient is unique with some patients proceeding through the stages of DLS quicker and some proceeding slower. Dr. Hamilton is well versed in evaluating and treating each stage of DLS. When you have a consultation at Hamilton Eye Institute, Dr. Hamilton will do a number of diagnostic tests, sit down with you, explain where you are on the DLS spectrum, discuss treatment options and make his best recommendation for a treatment plan that will extend throughout your lifetime.
VUITY EYE DROPS
Vuity is an eye drop that makes the pupil smaller. Much like increasing the F-Stop on a camera, the smaller the pupil, the greater the depth of field. Vuity can improve the near vision for patients with Stage 1 DLS. The effects from 1 drop of Vuity typically will last about 4-6 hours. Some patients may experience a slight brow ache. Because the drop makes the pupil smaller, less light enters the eye. This may cause dimmer vision, particularly in low light situations such as driving at night. If appropriate, Dr. Hamilton may suggest you try Vuity in the office to see if it makes sense for your particular situation.
BLENDED VISION
RIGHT EYE LEFT EYE
Since we have two eyes, we can set the focal point for each eye differently: one more for distance, the other more for up close. This can typically be tried in contact lenses to see if it works for you. Traditionally referred to as monovision, the blended vision concept has limitations, with effects on depth perception and ghost images. If appropriate, Dr. Hamilton may suggest you try blended vision with contact lenses prior to undergoing a blended vision treatment with SMILE, LASIK, EVO Visian ICL . Blended vision can also be employed with cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange. Dr. Hamilton will suggest this if he feels it is the best option for your particular situation.
REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGE
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): This option directly addresses the part of the eye causing the loss of near vision. An RLE is identical to cataract surgery where the natural lens of the eye is replaced with an advanced intraocular lens implant that will last the rest of the patient’s life. Patients who have farsightedness (hyperopia) are typically the best candidates for RLE. Dr. Hamilton has been performing refractive lens exchange surgery for many years and uses all the most advanced diagnostics and surgical laser techniques to optimize outcomes for reduced dependence on glasses. After a comprehensive examination, Dr. Hamilton will determine if RLE is your best option.