Award-Winning San Diego Eye Surgeon

Presbyopia Treatments

Discover advanced presbyopia treatments, including VUITY eye drops, contact lenses, clear lens exchange surgery, cataract surgery and glasses, at Alvarado Eye Associates in San Diego. Expert care by Dr. Lee Katzman.

Ophthalmologist surgeon Dr. Lee Katzman specializes in advanced treatments for presbyopia, a common age-related condition that affects near vision.

Located in San Diego, Dr. Katzman offers a range of solutions, including the newly FDA-approved VUITY eye drops by Allergan, contact lenses, clear lens exchange surgery, cataract surgery and glasses to help patients regain clear and comfortable vision. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Alvarado Eye Associates today.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for Presbyopia Treatments

Presbyopia typically manifests as difficulty focusing on close objects, which usually starts right around 40 years old. Common symptoms include:

 

  • Blurred vision when reading or doing close work
  • Eye strain or headaches after prolonged near tasks
  • The need to hold reading materials at arm’s length
  • Difficulty reading small print in low light
  • Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses

The Importance of Treating Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a natural part of aging that usually begins to affect people over the age of 40. As the eye’s natural lens loses its flexibility, it becomes harder to focus on close objects. This condition can significantly impact daily activities such as reading, smartphone use, or computer work. Without treatment, presbyopia can lead to eye strain, headaches, and frustration with everyday tasks.

Addressing presbyopia improves vision and enhances quality of life by reducing dependency on reading glasses and allowing individuals to perform close-up tasks with ease. With advancements in treatment options, patients can now access more convenient and effective solutions to manage presbyopia.

Treatment Process

The treatment process for presbyopia at Alvarado Eye Associates involves several options tailored to the patient’s lifestyle and vision needs. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Initial Consultation: Dr. Lee Katzman will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to assess the severity of presbyopia and discuss the best treatment options.
  • Customized Treatment Plan: A personalized treatment plan will be developed based on the examination results, considering the patient’s preferences and specific needs.
  • Treatment Options:
    • VUITY Eye Drops: The newly FDA-approved VUITY by Allergan is an eye drop solution that improves near vision by constricting the pupil, enhancing depth of focus without significantly affecting distance vision.
    • Contact Lenses: Multifocal contact lenses or monovision correction lenses can provide clear vision at multiple distances.
    • Clear Lens Exchange Surgery: This procedure involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that can correct presbyopia.This is a very popular and permanent solution to the condition.
    • Glasses: Prescription reading glasses, bifocals, or progressive lenses can be used to correct near vision.
    • Cataract Surgery: This procedure is identical to Clear Lens Exchange Surgery, but in patients that are usually 65 and older and have diagnosed cataracts. 
  • Post-Treatment Care: Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

Prevention and Management of Presbyopia

While presbyopia is a natural part of aging and cannot be prevented, there are ways to manage its effects. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting vision changes early and updating prescriptions as needed. This proactive approach helps maintain optimal vision and reduces eye strain.

 

Adopting good reading habits, such as ensuring proper lighting and taking frequent breaks during close-up tasks, can help manage symptoms. Using larger print materials and adjusting digital device settings to enlarge text can also alleviate some discomfort associated with presbyopia.

Improving Near Vision with Advanced Treatments

Patients who undergo presbyopia treatments at Alvarado Eye Associates can expect significant improvements in their near vision. VUITY eye drops offer a convenient daily solution, while contact lenses, clear lens exchange surgery, and glasses provide effective alternatives tailored to individual preferences. These treatments help patients regain the ability to read, work, and easily perform other close-up tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is VUITY and how does it work?

VUITY is an FDA-approved eye drop by Allergan that improves near vision by constricting the pupil, increasing the depth of focus without significantly affecting distance vision.

How long does the effect of VUITY eye drops last?

The effects of VUITY eye drops typically last for about 6 to 10 hours, providing improved near vision for most of the day.

Are there any side effects associated with VUITY eye drops?

Some patients may experience mild side effects such as eye redness or headache, but these are generally temporary and subside quickly. This is a prescription medicine and does require an examination by an eye care professional.

Can presbyopia be corrected with surgery?

Yes, clear lens exchange surgery can effectively correct presbyopia by replacing the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens that provides clear vision at multiple distances. This is a permanent solution and will not require additional surgeries later in life.

How often should I have my eyes checked for presbyopia?

It is recommended to have an eye exam every 1-2 years, especially after the age of 40, to monitor changes in vision and update prescriptions as needed.

Move Toward Clearer Vision

Dr. Lee Katzman is dedicated to providing advanced presbyopia treatments tailored to your needs. Under his expert care, every patient receives personalized attention and the highest quality treatment available. If you are experiencing symptoms of presbyopia, early intervention can greatly improve your vision and quality of life.

 

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Katzman today to learn more about how our presbyopia treatments, including the new VUITY eye drops, can help you achieve clearer vision and enhance your daily activities. Contact Alvarado Eye Associates in San Diego to take the first step toward better near vision.