Use of Spectacles after Cataract Surgery.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Optical Science

Background:

• Cataract surgery aims to restore vision, often targeting emmetropia (perfect distance vision).
• The use of intraocular lenses (IOLs) influences postoperative refractive outcomes and spectacle dependence.
• Understanding patient behavior regarding spectacle use and satisfaction post-surgery is crucial for comprehensive eye care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate spectacle use in daily life after bilateral cataract surgery targeting emmetropia.
• To analyze the total cost of spectacles and patient visual satisfaction at least six months post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study of patients receiving bilateral cataract surgery with aspheric monofocal IOLs targeting emmetropia.
• Postoperative refractive outcomes were documented.
• A phone interview at least six months post-surgery assessed spectacle type, cost, usage patterns, and visual satisfaction.

Main Results:

• 84% of patients purchased new spectacles, primarily varifocals (59%) or reading glasses (24%), at a median cost of 980 Swiss Francs.
• Despite initial intentions, varifocal wear exceeded 50% of waking time for a significant portion of patients across all refractive outcome groups.
• Patient visual satisfaction was very high across all groups, irrespective of spectacle use.

Conclusions:

• A majority of patients achieving emmetropia after monofocal aspheric IOL implantation opt for varifocal spectacles within six months.
• Many patients utilize these varifocals for a substantial part of their waking hours.
• The financial investment in these spectacles is considerable, yet patient satisfaction is high.