Presbyopia

Medical content revised by - Last revision 13/09/2023

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What is presbyopia?

Presbyopia is diffulty focusing on near objects (reading, using a computer, etc.), which typically occurs around the age of 40-45. The eye starts to have trouble focusing at these distances and this increases with age. It is a natural physiological process that affects everyone, although some experience it sooner than others. It is normally corrected with glasses for near vision or contact lenses. The prescription required to correct the presbyopia is added to that which the person may need for their distance vision.

Refractive surgery has evolved in recent years and can now correct this problem, just as we are able to correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.

Surgery for presbyopia includes different techniques, which will be selected depending on each case, the patient’s age, their prescription for distance vision and the characteristics of the eye. Each case will be evaluated using a series of tests to be able to decide which is the best technique for each individual.

How can presbyopia be corrected?

Multifocal lenses

Lente multifocal
Multifocal lenses are implanted into the eye and replace the lens. They split the light across different points creating a series of focuses, the main ones being for distance vision and the other for near. In the case of the more modern lenses (trifocals), there is also one for middle distance vision, meaning that it can offer freedom from glasses at all distances.

Excimer laser and femtosecond laser

Láser
There are different types of laser surgery: depending on the patient’s specific case, it can be carried out by applying excimer laser directly, without lifting any layers of corneal tissue, or lifting these layers using femtosecond laser before applying the excimer laser to correct the diopters.

Monovision

Monovisión

This involves splitting vision between the eyes so that one dominates for near vision and the other distance vision. This means that when both eyes are working together, distance will be good at both distances. This can be achieved using either laser techniques or lens implants.

Corneal implants

Implante corneal

These are implanted into the thickest part of the cornea. Intracorneal rings, the most common type, are designed to alter the curve and refractive strength of the cornea and are used above all in cases of irregular corneas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Presbyopia

Can presbyopia be prevented?

No. It is a natural part of ageing and cannot be prevented. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to lower the brightness of your electronic devices and limit their use.

Does the presbyopia operation prevent cataracts?

If we use the technique that replaces the natural lens with an intraocular lens then we prevent cataracts from appearing. The ophthalmologist will study each case to determine which is the best technique for the patient.

Can I have this operation if I also have myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism?

The ophthalmologist evaluates each case, but in many cases all these refractive defects can be elminated in one single surgical procedure.

Can I have the operation if I already had surgery for myopia?

Each individual case needs to be evaluated, but with the latest generation tools that we possess we can study whether this a suitable option (and in many cases it is).

If I have a lens implanted could the presbyopia return? Would I need glasses again for my presbyopia?

In the operation we remove the natural lens and replace it with an intraocular lens with a fixed prescription.

If I have the operation how long will it be before I can return to my normal routine?

Visual recovery is usually fast but it is still surgery, meaning that we need to rest for a few days and attend the post-operative consultations. Additional recovery time will be required before you can do sporting activities again.

Specialists in presbyopia

Do you have any questions?

Contact us or request an appointment with one of our specialists.

Visit us at:

ICR Ganduxer Headquarters

C/ Ganduxer,117
08022 Barcelona See map

ICR Pau Alcover

C/ Pau Alcover 67
08017 Barcelona See map

ICR Cerignola

C/ Cerignola, 14
08022 Barcelona See map

ICR Terrassa

C/ Del Nord, 77
08221 Terrassa See map

ICR Service at Clínica Ntra. Sra. del Remei

C/ de l'Escorial,148
08024 Barcelona See map

Clínica Bonanova Surgical Center

Passeig Bonanova, 22
08022 Barcelona See map

Clinica Bonanova Tests and Treatments

C/ Mandri, 63
08022 Barcelona See map

ICR Ganduxer Headquarters

Telephone number +34 93 378 23 19
Emergencies phone number: +34 93 418 72 27

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

How to get there More information

ICR Pau Alcover

Telephone number (+34) 93 378 23 19

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday from 8 am to 9 pm. Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm.

How to get there More information

ICR Cerignola

Telephone number +34 93 378 23 19

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

How to get there More information

ICR Terrassa

Telephone number +34 93 736 34 40

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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ICR Service at Clínica Ntra. Sra. del Remei

Telephone number 902 10 10 50

Opening hours:
Monday to Thursday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Monday mornings from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

How to get there More information

Clínica Bonanova Surgical Center

Telephone number 934 34 09 25

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

How to get there More information

Clinica Bonanova Tests and Treatments

Telephone number +34 93 434 27 70

How to get there More information