Name of the Procedure:

Bifocal Add Over 3.25d (HCPCS Code: V2220) Common Names: Bifocal lens fitting, High-power bifocal fitting

Summary

Bifocal lenses are specialized eyeglasses that combine two prescriptions into one lense to correct both near and far vision. The procedure involves fitting lenses that have an add power greater than 3.25 diopters, catering to individuals with significantly different vision needs for distance and close-up work.

Purpose

Medical Conditions: Presbyopia, severe hyperopia. Goals: To provide clear vision at both near and far distances, enhancing the overall visual acuity and reducing the need for multiple pairs of glasses.

Indications

• Patients with presbyopia.
• Individuals requiring an add power over 3.25 diopters.
• Those experiencing significant visual discrepancies between near and far distances.

Preparation

• Eye examination and refraction test by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
• No specific pre-procedure instructions such as fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Eye Exam: The practitioner performs a comprehensive eye exam to determine the current prescription needs.
2. Bifocal Assessment: The patient's need for a bifocal add over 3.25 diopters is evaluated.
3. Lens Selection: Appropriate bifocal lenses are chosen, considering the add power and the patient's lifestyle needs.
4. Fitting: The lenses are fitted into frames, ensuring proper alignment to correct both near and distance vision.
5. Adjustment: Fine-tuning the positioning of the bifocal segment for optimal visual performance.

Tools Used: Phoropter, lensometer, trial lenses. Anesthesia/Sedation: None required.

Duration

Typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an optometry clinic or ophthalmology office.

Personnel

• Optometrist/Ophthalmologist: Conducts eye exam and determines bifocal requirement.
• Optician: Assists with fitting the lenses into frames and making adjustments.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Initial adaptation period with discomfort or blurred vision.
• Rare: Persistent visual distortions, headaches, or difficulty in adjusting to bifocals.

Benefits

• Clear vision for both near and distant activities.
• Reduced dependency on multiple pairs of glasses.
• Improved overall quality of life.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Instruction on how to adapt to bifocal lenses.
• Recovery Time: Initial adjustment period of about 1-2 weeks.
• Follow-Up: Scheduled visit to ensure proper adaptation.

Alternatives

• Single Vision Lenses: Separate pairs for near and distance vision.
• Progressive Lenses: No visible line, but might require an adjustment period.
• Contact Lenses: Multifocal contact lenses.
• Pros & Cons: Progressive lenses offer a gradient transition but may be harder to adjust to than traditional bifocals.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Minimal discomfort.
• After the Procedure: Some initial adjustment phase with slight discomfort or headaches; usually managed with proper guidance and time.