WHAT IS PRESBYOPIA?
In simple terms , Presbyopia means the need to wear reading glasses. The condition affects all middleaged individuals. Its usually sets in around the age of 40 years and is progressive.Presbyopia is due to an age related weakening of the muscles insidethe eye called the ciliary muscle.The hardening of the eye lens and "muscle crowding" are also stated as causes for this condition.

HOW IS PRESBYOPIA TREATED?
Presbyopia manifests as a need to wear spectacles for near work such as reading.In case of those wearing spectacles for distant vision, additional creation for near is required in the form of Bifocal or multifocal glasses.Lasik or contact lens cannot treat this condition.Presbyopia can now be reversed by surgery and by a new Laser procedure called LAPR.

WHAT IS LAPR?
LAPR stands for Laser Presbyopia Reversal . With the help of an infrared laser the area near the ciliary muscle is treated in order to increase the efficiency of these muscles.This results in a stronger capacity of the eye to focus on near objects.This means that there is no longer a need to wear spectacles (or reading addition)for near work.

IS THE EFFECT OF LAPR PERMANENT?
Studies indicate that LAPR effect is permanent.However ,prebyopia is a progressive condition and hence over a period of time the net effect will reduce .This means that around the age of sixty , one may need an enhancement procedure or a small amount of "reading add" .Although, long-term stability is expected,it cannot be accurately predicted at this point of time.Once the eye develops a cataract, the effects of LAPR may be diminished or nullified.

IS LAPR SAFE?
It may be stated that LAPR,like Lasik ,is a safe procedure.In some ways LAPR is safer,as the procedure is not done on structures along the optical axis.No significant complication has been reported till now with LAPR.

AM I SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR LAPR?
If yor are between the ages of 35 and 60 and want to be less dependent on spectacles for near work, you are suitable for LAPR.However , you must have a through eye examination,which will determine whether there are any other disorders in your eyes (such as cataract, glaucoma , Diabetic Retinopathy ,etc) that may disqualify you for the procedure.If you are also wearing spectacles for distance you may need to undergo a LASIK procedure too.