Problems with Restore Lens

[HattieBelle]

I had Restore lenses implanted in January and so am wondering whether the problems I'm having are to be expected.  My distance vision is much improved although there are areas of distortion in some parts of my field of vision.  I have concentric rings around lights at night which are quite distracting.  I also am having problems with reading, even at the focal point suggested by my doctor with "ghost" images where there the letters seem to have a slightly offset shadow.  But worst of all, I can't focus where there isn't high contrast - so I can't distinguish between the pink and white colors on my fingernails and so can't cut my nails, or if I have a splinter in my finger, I can't see well enough to take it out.  Color photos are blurred and I can't bring them into focus.   Will glasses cure any of this problem?  Also my eyes hurt - by mid afternoon they feel like I've kept a hard pair of contact lenses in too long.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Your symptoms are related to the diffractive lens technology of the restor.  It is important, however, to rule out any residual refractive error or posterior capsule opacification which can add to visual complaints.  The sore eyes are likely related to eyestrain and dry eyes.  Use extra artificial tears to help with that and have a talk with your surgeon - he should be able to talk with you about your problems.

MJK MD

[HattieBelle]

I have Restore lenses and am having difficulty seeing printed material unless itis black and white.  Where there is less contrast, such as in pictures, my vision is very blurred.  Can this be corrected with glasses?

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

If your refractive error is totally corrected - then the answer is that you probably are what you are.  Glasses might not help much at all.  If there is still some astigmatism, hyperopia or posterior capsule opacity then  perhaps glasses and/laser may help.


MJK MD