Are There New Treatments for Negative Dysphotopsia?
JAN 14, 2015
Question:
Are there any new, proven treatments for negative dysphotopsia (a dark crescent-like area usually in the temporal visual field after cataract surgery)?
Answer:
The causes of negative dysphotopsia are not fully known but are suspected to be a result of the edge of the intraocular lens. This can happen with any type of intraocular lens and there is no way to predict its occurrence. Oftentimes the symptom will gradually resolve over months. It is uncommon for this symptom to continue to be bothersome indefinitely. However, if after a minimum of six months to one year a patient is persistently bothered by this symptom, then treatment may be considered. Dr. Sam Masket has reported that putting an additional intraocular lens in front of the implant that is already there can alleviate this symptom. Exchanging the intraocular lens can also be done but since this symptom can occur with any type of IOL, that is not the preferred treatment.