An Introduction to the ReSTOR lens

Why do I need reading glasses these days?
Your near vision is referred to as accommodation.  As we perform daily activities such as reading, watching television or working at the computer, our eyes are constantly accommodating (or squeezing) to focus on objects at varying distances – up close, far away and everything in-between.  Unfortunately, accommodation decreases as we grow older.  This condition is called presbyopia and it begins around age 40.  That’s because the lens in the eye gets more rigid and can no longer be squeezed by the muscles that surround it.  That’s when we start to use reading glasses, bifocals or progressives for close-up activities.  In time, that hardened lens will become a cataract and may obstruct your vision.

What are my options?
Many presbyopic patients are choosing to remove their hardening lens and have a multi-focal lens inserted.  The Alcon ReSTOR Intraocular lens was designed to provide quality near and distance vision using apodized and refractive technologies. Similar technology has been used for years in microscopes and telescopes to improve image quality, and has now been patented for use in intraocular lenses. Apodization is the gradual tapering of the diffractive steps from the center to the outside edge of a lens to create a smooth transition of light between the distance, intermediate and near focal points. Diffraction involves the bending or spreading of light to multiple focal points as it passes through the lens.

This procedure is called a refractive lensectomy or clear lens replacement surgery. The procedure is much like a cataract removal procedure.  Afterward, you will not need cataract surgery later in life.  Patients not only regain their distance vision but also their near vision.  Many ReSTOR patients who use the computer heavily have found that they still use reading glasses for some intermediate range activities.  But, they state that regaining their near vision and their distance vision is worth it.

What if my vision isn’t what I expected? 
About 5% of the patients who choose ReSTOR will still need residual correction.  This can be accomplished with the excimer laser that is used for Lasik patients.  Any of our ReSTOR patients who need excimer treatment will only pay the facility costs.

What’s the next step?
You should schedule a day to come into the office and meet with Dr. Smith during a free consult. Dr. Smith will examine your eyes to determine their general health and basic tests will help him determine whether you have a cataract or not. You can ask any questions and find out what outcomes you might expect.

• Care Credit (no initial payment, 0 interest or low interest) Fast, confidential service by phone – 866.624.2428.  Or you can apply online at their secure website at www.carecredit.com.

• Vision Fee Plan/Capital One – 877.559.5050 or on-line             www.capitalonehealthcarefinance.com

To schedule your free consult, use this link. Or call our office at 830.606.9099.