Modern medical technology has come a long way, but it still can’t stop eye aging. In fact, with the way our lifestyles have changed, the rate of eye aging seems to be speeding up. The most common signs of aging eyes are presbyopia and cataracts. Both happen as the lens loses its elasticity over time, making them difficult to prevent. Treatment only becomes an option once these conditions appear. So, what solutions are out there for presbyopia and cataracts? To give you a clearer idea, Creatrip visited an eye clinic to explore the latest treatment options firsthand!
Looking for a trusted eye clinic for presbyopia and cataract surgery in Korea?
How to Fix Presbyopia and Cataract?
1. Laser Surgery
Presbyopia correction laser surgery improves vision by reshaping the cornea. It's often mistaken for LASIK or LASEK, which are commonly chosen by people in their 20s and 30s, but there are key differences. The biggest distinction is that presbyopia laser surgery corrects each eye differently—one eye is adjusted for near vision, while the other is adjusted for distance vision.
Even though this technique has been used for a long time, it comes with three significant drawbacks:
- It can create a negative perception called 'monovision'.
- The adjustment period can be relatively long.
- The surgery may not be suitable for everyone, as it depends on the condition of the cornea.
A more advanced solution that addresses these limitations is lens implantation. Depending on whether cataracts are present, lens implantation can be divided into two types: multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and presbyopia lens implantation.
2. Lens Implantation Surgery
2a. Multifocal Intraocular Lens (IOL) Implantation (in case of cataracts)
Multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is ideal for those with cataracts, as it offers the benefit of treating both cataracts and presbyopia simultaneously. Cataracts can only be fully treated by removing the aged lens and replacing it with an artificial one. When a multifocal IOL is implanted after removing the aged lens, it not only resolves cataracts but also provides clear vision at all distances, eliminating the need for reading glasses.
This approach specifically addresses the limitations of single-focal intraocular lenses, which typically correct only one focal distance (usually far vision), often requiring reading glasses for close-up tasks.
* This surgery is not suitable for those without cataracts who only want to correct presbyopia.
2b. Presbyopia Lens Implantation Surgery (in case of NO cataracts)
Presbyopia lens implantation surgery is designed for patients who want to correct presbyopia without having cataracts. This procedure involves inserting an additional lens while preserving the natural lens, making it a less invasive option since the inserted lens can be removed if needed.
It also benefits patients who have previously undergone cataract surgery with a monofocal intraocular lens, as a presbyopia correction lens can be added later if presbyopia develops. (Monofocal intraocular lenses typically correct only distance vision, so reading glasses are often required for near vision.)
Why You Should Get Presbyopia and Cataract Surgery in Korea?
Presbyopia correction and cataract treatment technologies were originally developed by ophthalmic companies in Europe and the United States. However, Korea now leads in both the number of surgeries performed and the advancement of surgical techniques. Why is that?
One key reason is that cataract surgery is covered by Korea's national health insurance, making it more affordable and accessible. As a result, it has become the most commonly performed surgery in the country, with over 730,000 cataract procedures conducted in 2023 alone. Notably, Gangnam Bright Eye Clinic in Korea holds the world record for the highest number of presbyopia correction surgeries.
Gangnam Bright Eye Clinic
✔️ Largest eye clinic in South Korea
✔️ 1 of the 4 eye clinics to perform 100,000+ SMILE LASIK procedures worldwide (2023)
✔️ World's highest record for presbyopia lens implantation (Artiplus)
Bright Eye Clinic, located in Gangnam Kyobo Tower, is the largest eye clinic in South Korea, with nine ophthalmology specialists from top university hospitals in Seoul. Spanning two floors with over 200 staff members, it offers comprehensive eye exams and precise surgeries. With modern facilities, advanced surgical equipment, and world-class technology, it's a highly recommended clinic you can trust!
Reserve a consultation at Gangnam Bright Eye Clinic now!
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