Lens replacement surgery may be less suitable if you can still read comfortably without glasses, because the procedure removes this natural focusing ability.
Why preserving near vision matters
Many people enjoy being able to take off their distance glasses and read clearly up close. Removing the natural lens can take away this useful flexibility, even if an implant is chosen to help with near tasks.
- Natural near focus is often valuable for hobbies and fine work
- Surgery may swap your current balance of distance and near vision
- Some implants improve reading but may reduce contrast or add night-time halos
- You might still need glasses for certain activities after surgery
- Careful discussion is needed before giving up natural reading ability
When it may still be considered
In some people, the lens is already clouding or the distance prescription is very strong. In these cases, lens replacement may still offer an overall improvement in daily life.
- Significant cataract or lens ageing reducing clarity
- Very high distance prescription making glasses heavy or limiting
- Desire for clearer driving and outdoor vision, accepting change in reading
- Healthy retina and cornea confirmed on examination
- Understanding that reading habits may need to adapt after surgery
