Double vision at a distance post cataract

[Ruth360]

I had my second cataract surgery last December on the Right eye.  I see well in both the near and intermediate ranges, but see double in the distance.  Even after 10 months my right eye has swelling under the eye and there is a darkened ring under it.  I saw a second doctor who said the double vision may be caused by a muscle imbalance.  He prescribed a low diopter prism for my right eye.  It does not really clear up the vision.  My concern is this...I believe that this problem was caused by the injectable anesthesia given to me before the surgery. Is there anything that can be done to help me both cosmetically or by surgery.

[Sandra M Brown, MD]

You need to be examined by an Eye-MD who specializes in adult strabismus.  You can find one at www.aapos.org.

Double vision after injected anesthesia for cataract surgery is a well understood condition.  You may be helped with the proper prism, or you may benefit from surgery on the eye muscles.  You need a thorough eye muscle examination and a detailed explanation of your problem to make informed decisions.

Almost certainly you can be helped.

[Ruth360]

Dear Dr. Brown, Thank you so much for taking the time to address my question.  I should have elaborated more on the fact that I have seen an opthalmolgist who did give me a muscle examination and has given me a low D  Frenal prism.  He did not recommend surgery.  I am not satisfied with the correction, but will not have a follow-up until 14 weeks from now.  I guess the question that he did not answer is what is the prognosis for the swelling and  blackness beneath the eye. Do you have any suggestions for me regarding this condition?  It has been nearly a year since I had the surgery.