Questions to ask your surgeon
Bring this checklist to your appointment. The answers usually matter more than the brand name of any lens.
Your eyes & measurements
- Do I have astigmatism? How will you measure it and treat it?
- Do I have dry eye or ocular surface disease? Should we treat it before final measurements?
- Any macular/retinal issues (e.g., macular degeneration, epiretinal membrane) that affect lens choice?
- Is my cornea regular enough for “range” lenses?
Lifestyle fit
- How much night driving do I do, and what night symptoms should I expect with each option?
- What are my top 3 visual tasks: reading, computer, sport, driving, hobbies?
- If I choose monovision, what amount do you recommend (full vs mini) and why?
Outcome expectations
- What is the realistic chance I will still need glasses (near, intermediate, or distance)?
- What “side effects” are common in your patients: haloes, glare, reduced contrast?
- What does “successful” look like for you, and what does it look like for me?
Plan B (important)
- If I am unhappy, what are the options: glasses, laser enhancement, lens exchange?
- How often do you need enhancement procedures in your practice?
- What is the typical time course for neuro‑adaptation and symptom settling?
Common decision pitfalls
Assuming “premium” means “better for everyone”
Premium lenses often widen the range of focus, but that can come with predictable optical trade‑offs. “Better” depends on what you value most.
Underestimating the impact of dry eye
Dry eye can cause fluctuating vision and degrade measurements. Treating the ocular surface can materially change outcomes and satisfaction.
Trying to decide based on the first eye alone
Between-eye experimentation can help, but binocular vision is different. If you're considering monovision, simulation with contacts can be more representative.
Not clarifying what “glasses-free” means
Clarify whether you mean “no glasses ever,” “no glasses for most tasks,” or “fine with occasional readers.” These are very different goals.