Johnson & Johnson has launched a 10-part video series to address common beliefs and misconceptions about fitting multifocal soft contact lenses (MFSCLs).
With a light-hearted yet insightful approach, in ‘Word from the street: Multifocal myths explored’, Adam Samuels and Kerry Ho – optometrists and professional education consultants at Johnson & Johnson – challenge thinking around MFSCL fitting and long-term patient care, offering you clinical insights with practical tips and ready-to-use resources.
Episode One: Monovision vs Multifocal
Many clinicians default to monovision because it seems effective and quick. But while the fit may be faster early on, in episode one – ‘Is monovision easier than multifocals and is it the best soft contact lens for presbyopia correction?’ – you’ll find out why monovision may create challenges later.
“Monovision may feel simple, but modern multifocals may deliver better binocular function and long-term outcomes, often with similar chair time,” said Mr Samuels.
“Monovision sacrifices binocular vision and depth perception, which can worsen as presbyopia progresses and can impact driving, sports and everyday tasks,” added Mr Ho.
Key Takeaways
Why Monovision May Fall Short
- Reduced binocular summation and compromised depth perception.1,2,3
- Declining performance as the unaided eye’s near/far balance shifts with age.1,4
- Inferior functional vision for activities that require both eyes.2,3
- Increased chair time for re-fits later down the track.1,2
Why Try Modern MFSCLs First
- Comparable fitting time to monovision with better long-term clinical outcomes.2,4
- Improved binocular and functional vision for distance, intermediate and near tasks.2,4
- Fewer compromises for active patients (driving, sports, hobbies).2,3
Practical Tips for Practice
- Discuss daily activities and binocular demands before prescribing.
- Offer a multifocal trial first as it may convert patients once they experience the real-world benefits.
- Use manufacturer fitting guides and document patient goals to streamline fitting.
So, What’s The Verdict?
Monovision contact lenses can be a useful option in some cases, but it shouldn’t be the default first choice for presbyopes. Start with MFSCLs when possible to maximise long-term patient satisfaction and functional vision.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for health care professionals only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual/s based on their personal experience. The clinical advice contained in this video is not a substitute for proper medical education and training or the exercise of independent health care professional judgement. Each situation should be considered unique to each patient, and all treatments should be individualised accordingly based on the respective health care professional’s judgement.
References
- Evans BJW. Monovision: a review. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt. 2007;27(5):417-439. doi: 10.1111/j.1475-1313.2007.00488.x.
- Woods J, Woods C, Fonn D. Visual performance of a multifocal contact lens versus monovision in established presbyopes. Optom Vis Sci. 2015;92(2):175-182. doi: 10.1097/OPX.0000000000000476.
- Chu BS, Wood JM, Collins MJ. Effect of presbyopic vision corrections on perceptions of driving difficulty. Eye Contact Lens. 2009;35(3):133-143. doi: 10.1097/ICL.0b013e3181a1435e.
- Remón L, et al. Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses for presbyopia and myopia control. J Ophthalmol. 2020;2020:8067657. doi: 10.1155/2020/8067657.
