How to Choose Progressive Lenses After Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is usually done to replace a cloudy crystalline lens. During the surgery, an ophthalmologist inserts an IOL, the interocular lens that focuses light to the back of your retina. Even though your vision will be improved after the surgery, you may still need to wear glasses. Care should be used in selecting progressive, or no-line bifocals, if you need a correction for reading after cataract surgery.

Instructions

• 1

  Obtain a copy of your written prescription from your ophthalmologist after your surgery.

• 2

  Select a frame that allows your eyes to be centered in the top half to third of the frame. Also make sure your eyes are in the middle of the lenses horizontally, not closer to the bridge or temples (ear side) of the glasses.

• 3

  Choose a frame that gives you enough of a reading area in your lenses. Most progressive lens manufacturers suggest a measured height of 20 millimeters but some are available as low as 15 millimeters. Your optician can help you verify your lens has enough depth to hold your progressive lenses.

• 4

  Verify the lenses will have an intermediate area (also called the channel) that is wide enough for your visual needs. The optician fitting you will have this information and is based on the brand of progressive lenses. Some lenses have wider reading areas and are easier to adapt to and use.

• 5

  Do not wear your old glasses once you begin using your progressive lenses after cataract surgery. Going back and forth between your old prescription and your new one will make adjusting to your new lenses more difficult.