LASIK monovision is a viable and increasingly accepted method for correcting presbyopic and pre-presbyopic refractive surgery candidates, according to results from a recent study. In addition, crossed monovision, in which the dominant eye is corrected for near vision, may be applied successfully in suitable candidates.
“Although the overall success of monovision was good, patient selection is extremely important, as not every patient can adapt to monovision,” the study authors said. “Patients selecting monovision should also be aware that the reliance on one eye for distance vision makes an enhancement procedure more likely than if bilateral distance vision is chosen.”
Roger F. Steinert, MD, and colleagues retrospectively analyzed the preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes of 284 patients 45 years or older who elected to undergo LASIK to correct myopia or hyperopia. Subsequently, refractive success, functional success and patient enhancement rates were evaluated for patients treated with monovision correction. Of 284 total LASIK patients, 188 (67%) elected to undergo monovision correction and 96 (34%) chose bilateral distance correction.
Editor’s note by Dr. Dello Russo: Monovision is the preferred choice if one can get adjusted. The only way to determine this before lasik is a trial with lenses prior to lasik. People with certain personalities, occupations and lifestyles are better candidates than others. If you see ads for “getting rid of reading glasses”, monovision is what it’s all about. I have mono myself.