The need for glasses after cataract surgery in Thailand depends on the intraocular lens selected. Standard monofocal lenses usually require glasses for reading. Premium multifocal or trifocal lenses reduce reliance on spectacles for near, intermediate, and far vision.
- Lens selection: Multifocal lenses cost $2,500 to $3,500 and provide the most visual freedom.
- Monovision alternative: Surgeons can target one eye for distance and one for near vision.
- Astigmatism correction: Toric lenses correct pre-existing astigmatism for crisp distance vision without glasses.
- Stabilisation period: Vision fluctuates during healing. Final prescriptions are only accurate after 4–6 weeks.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Thailand’s leading eye centres, such as TRSC International, have restored over 100,000 eyes. Specialists like Dr. Pichit Naripthaphan often combine phacoemulsification with Eyhance or EDOF lenses. This combination typically allows patients to drive and use computers without glasses. Many only need light readers for very small text.
Patient Consensus: Patients in Thailand report that choosing premium lenses usually results in freedom from glasses. Most recommend confirming the target refraction with the surgeon before the procedure.