Name of the Procedure:

Fitting of Spectacles (Multifocal, other than bifocal)

Summary

This procedure involves fitting and adjusting multifocal spectacles for patients who need corrective lenses with more than two focal points. Unlike bifocal lenses that have only two distinct areas for near and far vision, multifocal lenses provide multiple focal points to assist with vision at various distances.

Purpose

Multifocal spectacles are designed to correct presbyopia, a condition where the eye's lens loses elasticity and the ability to focus on close objects. The goal of these spectacles is to provide the patient with a seamless transition between different focal points, allowing clear vision at various distances without the need to switch between different pairs of glasses.

Indications

• Presbyopia
• Difficulty focusing on near and distant objects
• Eye strain or headaches from frequent adjustment of focus
• Patients who require corrective measures for various distances but prefer a single pair of glasses over multiple pairs.

Preparation

• Comprehensive eye examination to determine the exact prescription.
• Assessment of the patient's daily activities and visual needs to customize the focal points effectively.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are required.

Procedure Description

1. Eye Examination: The optometrist conducts an eye exam to determine the patient's vision needs.
2. Prescription: The correct lens prescription is created based on the eye examination results.
3. Lens Selection: Multifocal lenses are selected to match the patient's prescription and lifestyle needs.
4. Frame Selection: The patient selects frames that best fit their face and preferences.
5. Lens Fitting: The lenses are fitted into the chosen frames and adjusted to ensure the correct positioning on the patient's face.
6. Final Adjustments: The optometrist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and optimal vision through the new lenses.

No anesthesia or sedation is involved in this procedure.

Duration

The entire process, including the eye examination and fitting, typically takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

Optometry clinic or optical retail store.

Personnel

• Optometrist: Conducts the eye examination and determines the prescription.
• Optician: Assists in lens and frame selection and performs the fitting and adjustments.

Risks and Complications

• Initial discomfort as the patient adapts to the new lenses.
• Difficulty adjusting to the transition between different focal points.
• Eye strain or headaches if the lenses are not correctly fitted.

Benefits

• Improved vision at multiple distances with one pair of glasses.
• Convenience in daily activities without the need for multiple pairs of glasses.
• Enhanced quality of life through better vision correction.

Recovery

• It may take a few days to a few weeks for patients to fully adjust to multifocal lenses.
• Follow-up visits may be needed for further adjustments.

Alternatives

• Bifocal lenses: Provide near and far vision correction but lack intermediate focus.
• Progressive lenses: Another type of multifocal lenses that provide a gradual change in prescription.
• Contact lenses or refractive surgery: Alternative options for those who prefer not to wear glasses.

Patient Experience

• During the fitting, patients may experience slight discomfort as they adapt to the frames and new lenses.
• After receiving the spectacles, some patients may initially experience dizziness or headaches as they adjust to the multifocal lenses.
• Pain management is not typically required, but patients should communicate any discomfort to their optometrist for potential adjustments.