Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is a multifocal intraocular lens, and is this lens surgery suitable for me?

These are artificial lenses that bring distance, near and intermediate vision into focus at the same time. They are suitable for people over 40 who want independence from glasses.

Can I be completely free of glasses after multifocal lens surgery?

To a large extent, yes. There may be exceptions with a very small residual prescription.

Is glare around lights at night normal after multifocal lens surgery?

Yes, it can occur initially and usually decreases over time.

What is a phakic intraocular lens?

It is a lens placed inside the eye without removing the natural lens; it is used as an alternative to laser surgery.

Can you feel a phakic lens after it is placed in the eye?

No, you cannot feel it.

Is phakic intraocular lens surgery better than laser surgery?

In high myopia and astigmatism, it often provides better quality vision.

Are floating black spots in the eye dangerous?

If they have started recently, they may be a sign of a retinal tear; a retinal examination is recommended.

What causes flashes of light in the eye?

They may be an early sign of retinal traction or a tear.

What eye problems can diabetes cause?

It can cause bleeding inside the eye, swelling and vision loss. An annual retinal check is essential.

What causes a macular hole?

It develops when tissue at the centre of vision becomes thinner. It is treated with macular surgery.

What is glaucoma?

It is a rise in pressure inside the eye that damages the optic nerve.

How is glaucoma treated?

It is controlled with eye drops, laser treatment or glaucoma surgery.

What causes dry eye?

There are many causes, including screen use, air conditioning, contact lenses, ageing and thyroid problems.

What treatments are available for dry eye?

Artificial tears, warm compresses, eyelid treatment, punctal plugs and IPL treatment may be used.

Is persistent eye redness normal?

It may be due to causes such as allergy, infection, dryness and contact lens use.

Why is my vision blurry when I wake up?

It may be a sign of dry eye, eyelid problems or glaucoma.

Can amblyopia recover completely?

The chance of success is very high if it is detected early.

Is there a lot of swelling after cosmetic eyelid surgery?

It usually decreases within 5–7 days.

Will the scar from cosmetic eyelid surgery be visible?

The scar is very fine and becomes less noticeable over time.

How long does it take to return to work after blepharoplasty?

Usually one week.

Can I shower after surgery?

It is possible after 24–48 hours, taking care not to get water in your eye.

How long will I use drops after surgery?

This depends on the procedure; the plan is determined at follow-up visits.

My glasses prescription keeps changing. Is that normal?

Frequent changes in adults are not normal; a check-up is recommended.

My distance vision is good, but I cannot see clearly up close. Why?

This is presbyopia, which develops after the age of 40. The solution is a multifocal intraocular lens or suitable glasses.

My eyes constantly sting and burn. What should I do?

It may be dry eye, eyelid inflammation or allergy. An examination is needed.

How often should I have an eye examination?

An eye examination is recommended every two years for adults, and once a year for people over 40 and those in risk groups.

Cataracts

What causes cataracts? Which symptoms call for cataract surgery?

A cataract is clouding of the eye's lens over time or as a result of certain diseases.

Can cataracts be corrected with glasses?

No. Cataracts can only be treated surgically.

Does cataract surgery hurt?

No. Modern cataract surgery is performed painlessly with anaesthetic eye drops.

Is cataract surgery painful?

Using the modern phacoemulsification technique, it takes 15–20 minutes and is painless because anaesthetic eye drops are used.

Can multifocal lenses free me from glasses?

Trifocal intraocular lenses provide clear vision at distance, intermediate and near ranges.

Laser and refractive surgery

Is laser vision correction (LASIK, SMILE or PRK) safe?

It is very safe when performed in a suitable patient.

How can I find out whether my eyes are suitable for laser surgery?

Suitability is determined by corneal thickness, prescription, dryness and topography measurements.

What is the difference between SMILE and conventional laser surgery?

Because SMILE is flapless, recovery is more comfortable.

Can my prescription return after laser surgery?

Generally, no. Small changes related to advancing age can occur.

Does the eye close after laser treatment?

No, the device prevents it from closing. The procedure takes seconds.

My prescription is too high for laser surgery. What can I do?

In this situation, phakic intraocular lens surgery is one of the best options.

When can I drive after surgery?

Usually 1–2 days after laser surgery and a few days after multifocal lens surgery.

How long does dryness last after laser surgery?

It is usually temporary and improves with drops.

Glaucoma

How is glaucoma detected? Does it have symptoms?

It usually has no symptoms, which is why regular examinations are needed.

Children’s eye health

At what age should my child have an eye examination?

The first examination is recommended between 6 months and 1 year of age.

How can amblyopia be recognised in children?

Poorer vision when looking with one eye and eye misalignment may be clues.

My child spends a lot of time looking at screens. Will their prescription worsen?

Long periods of screen time increase the risk of myopia.

When should children have their first eye examination?

The first examination should be in the first weeks after birth, then repeated at 6 months, 1 year and 3 years of age.