How long will it take to adjust to monovision cataract surgery?
APR 27, 2014
Question:
I've worn monovision contact lenses (wearing one lens for distance vision and one for near) for 20-plus years and just had monovision cataract surgery. Since I ended up a little nearsighted in the eye previously used for distance, my doctor switched the eyes from what I was accustomed to. I am having trouble reading anything without glasses (he said I could have a problem with small print). Is this because the brain has to adjust to the change and if so, how long would it usually take for the adjustment?
Answer:
Although some people cannot adjust to monovision, most who have adapted to this distance vision in one eye and near vision in the other eye will do well over time. Switching eyes as you have done can delay your adaptation. Some of the difficulties are related to how strongly focused the near seeing eye is set for. The stronger the near vision eye is focused, the better the reading, but the greater the difficulty with driving, especially at night. I suggest you talk this over with your ophthalmologist.