Monovision

The Monovision method is a surgical option suitable for individuals ages 40 and above who require vision correction for near vision and far vision at the same time.[1}Monovision is a surgical method which is an option for individuals ages 40 and above who suffer from a combined visual disorder of near-sightedness (myopia) – difficulty in seeing far-away objects – and far-sightedness (hyperopia) – difficulty in seeing while reading or when using a mobile device or a computer.

The method is based on the principle of the brain adapting to make corrections and adjustments in accordance with a particular state of vision.
That is to say, in a Monovision surgery, each eye is corrected differently: the dominant eye is corrected for good far vision, and the second eye is corrected for good near vision.

For whom is Monovision surgery suitable?

Surgery with the Monovision method is suitable for individuals ages 40 and above who suffer from nearsightedness and farsightedness simultaneously, whose prescription has been stable for half a year prior to the suitability test.

How is the suitability test conducted?

Comprehensive and meticulous suitability testing of the eyes is vital to the success of the operation, and it examines data such as corneal thickness, prescription (optical condition), corneal topography, intra-ocular pressure, eye and retina conditions and physiological issues such as dryness of the eyes etc.

To adapt the Monovision method to the patient, an additional test is conducted to determine which of their eyes is the dominant one.
In some cases, a simulation of vision following the surgery is conducted using dedicated lenses.

The suitability test at the Dr. Levinger Eyes medical centers involves a comprehensive diagnosis of the eye, and takes over 3 hours, including wait times.

For some candidates deemed unsuitable for laser vision correction surgery, vision may be corrected by intraocular lens (IOL) implants:

Stages of the test:

• Filling out a detailed health questionnaire and opening a computerized personal file.
• Eye photography and corneal scan using a topography device and CV scanner – the most advanced of its kind in the world.
• The test is conducted by a medical technician.
• Visual acuity and vision quality examination by a senior, experienced and Ministry of Health-certified optometrist.
• Watching a video about the variety of surgical techniques for vision correction.
• An examination by a specialist ophthalmologist, including meticulous questioning about general diseases, background diseases and eye diseases in the immediate family,
• as well as a comprehensive eye exam, including: an examination of corneal structure and thickness, pupil dilation, an examination of the eyeball, examination of the fundus, the optic nerve, intra-ocular pressure measurement and pupil diameter measurement.
• At this stage, it is important to note any vision changes or problems.
• Summary of the test findings.

For individuals deemed suitable, the physician will recommend an appropriate type of surgery, coordinate expectations regarding its results, and explain any possible side effects and risks. If you are not found suitable for laser vision correction surgery per the findings of the test, in some cases it may be possible to consider an alternative method of vision correction surgery, such as intraocular lens (IOL) implants.

Instructions for the test:

• Use of contact lenses should be discontinued before the test – contact lenses change the shape of the cornea, and therefore they affect the test data. Soft lenses should not be used at least 72 hours before the test, hard lenses should not be used at least 10 days before the test, and Ortho-K lenses should not be used for 3 months before the test.
• Do not arrive for the test with contact lenses.
• It is recommended to arrive for the test with someone to accompany you and bring sunglasses, as the test includes pupil dilation, which causes sensitivity to light.

Monovision laser vision correction surgery is performed under local anaesthesia using anaesthetic eye drops and is pain-free.

Advantages of vision correction with the Monovision method

• The surgery allows vision correction for individuals over 40 who require multifocal glasses.
  High level of safety.
• Good visual acuity during most hours of the day
• The surgery is performed under local anaesthesia using eye drops and is pain-free.

Disadvantages of the Monovision method

In poor lighting conditions, there may be glares, auras, and some difficulty driving at night. Therefore, you may need to wear glasses when driving at night, and you may have difficulty reading very small print in poor lighting conditions. Additionally, there may be a slight decrease in depth perception. This surgical method is not recommended for professional drivers and those in professions requiring precision in detailed work, such as jewelers or watchmakers.

Preparations required before Monovision surgery

Laser vision correction surgeries are considered a short and safe procedure. Nevertheless, the patient’s adherence to safety rules and the surgeon’s instructions is a necessary component in maintaining eye health before and after surgery and in expediting recovery.

• For contact lens wearers, do not wear soft lenses for at least 72 hours before surgery, hard lenses for 10 days before surgery, and do not wear Ortho-K lenses for 3 months before surgery.
• Do not wear make-up for about three days before surgery.

Preparations for the day of Monovision surgery

• Do not use perfume or aftershave on the day of surgery.
• It is recommended to wash your hair before surgery, as you will not be allowed to do so for 3-5 days after surgery, depending on the type of surgery.
• Before arriving for surgery, it is recommended to eat only a light meal (fasting is not necessary).
• Bring the eye drops prescribed by the physician in the suitability test: antibiotic drops to prevent infection, steroid drops to expedite healing, and artificial tears to protect against eye dryness.
• Come to the surgery with an escort.

Instructions for the day after Monovision surgery

• Come for a follow-up visit the day after surgery. Until then, do not remove the eye shields.
• It is recommended to come to the follow-up wearing sunglasses.

Do’s and don’ts during the week after Monovision surgery:

• Use eye drops as instructed by the physician. Before instilling drops, wash your hands thoroughly, and ensure that the bottle and your fingers do not touch the eye.
• You must sleep with eye protection for 3-7 nights, as instructed by the physician.
• Do not wash your hair for 3-5 days and do not get your eyes wet with tap water for 5 days.
• Do not engage in strenuous physical activity for 7-10 days to prevent sweat from entering the eyes.
• Come for a second follow-up visit one week after surgery. After that, as needed according to the physician’s instructions.

Do’s and don’ts during the two weeks after Monovision surgery:

• Do not wear make-up or rub your eyes.
  Do not stay in dusty environments.

Do’s and don’ts during the month after Monovision surgery:

• Be sure to wear sunglasses.
• It is recommended to limit driving, especially at night.
• Do not bathe in the sea, swimming pools, or immerse in a Mikveh.
• Avoid direct trauma to the eyes. Therefore, be careful when coming into contact with small children and animals.

Surgery success rates

Vision correction surgery has very high success rates. Approximately 98-99% are very satisfied with the results at the Dr. Levinger Eyes chain and worldwide. Up to 2% will require complementary surgery.
Patients at the Dr. Levinger Eyes chain receive a lifetime warranty, and complementary surgery is performed at no cost. It is important to note the vast experience accumulated in over 35 years since laser vision correction surgeries were invented.

Possible complications or side effects of Monovision surgery

In the first hours after surgery, there may be a burning sensation, dryness, and discomfort in the eyes. There may be blurred near vision in the first days. These effects resolve on their own, at most within a few days to weeks. Complications in this surgery are exceptionally rare, including infection, and can be prevented by following the physician’s instructions before and after surgery.

What are the costs of Monovision surgery?
The Dr. Levinger Eyes chain has particularly worthwhile arrangements for Clalit Platinum, Meuhedet Si, Leumit Gold and Maccabi Sheli members in the Be’er Sheva and surrounding region. Details may be found in the HMOs’ websites and at the information center at: *3122.

How many sick days do you get following a Monovision surgery?
In a comprehensive manner, patients get 7 sick days. If any additional sick days are necessary, you can request them from reception at the relevant branch.

Can you get your eyes wet following a Monovision surgery?
Avoid getting your eyes wet for about 5 days following the operation. When washing your hair, avoid spraying water on your eyes.

Can you wear eye make-up following a Monovision surgery?
You can wear make-up once two weeks have passed since the surgery.

Can you drive after a Monovision surgery?
You can resume driving following a short period of time.

Can you engage in physical activity following a Monovision vision correction surgery?
You can engage in physical activity that would not lead to sweating, such as walking, Pilates or lifting weights of up to 5 kg. After one month, you can engage in more strenuous physical activity.

When can you undergo a cosmetic or aesthetic treatment in the eye area, or go to a tanning salon, following a Monovision surgery?
You can undergo cosmetic or aesthetic treatment after one month has passed since the surgery.

When can you bathe in the sea or in swimming pools, immerse in a Mikveh or dive following a Monovision surgery?
You can do this after a month, while using antibiotic drops before and after swimming as instructed by the physician.

When can you fly after a Monovision surgery?
Follow the physician’s instructions, and generally after a follow-up visit conducted one week after the surgery.

Can you smoke or drink alcohol after a Monovision surgery?
There are no restrictions.