Mr. Sam previously had 10 diopters of myopia in each eye. After laser vision correction, his corneas became flatter than usual. Master of Science, Doctor Duong Minh Phuc from the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, stated that the intraocular lens (IOL) implanted in the patient's eye had to be precisely adjusted to his specific eye condition. Consequently, the doctor selected a 17-diopter multifocal IOL, whereas the typical strength is around 20 diopters.

"The retina showed some degeneration due to severe myopia, making it difficult to accurately predict post-operative vision", said Doctor Phuc.

Doctor Phuc examines Mr. Sam's eyes. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

One year ago, Mr. Sam was diagnosed with a grade two cataract in his left eye, which did not yet require surgery. For the past four months, his left eye had become sensitive to sunlight and vision appeared blurry, as if obscured by a mist. He had previously undergone cataract surgery on his right eye in the US, and this time he returned to Vietnam for the same procedure on his left eye at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City.

Doctor Phuc noted that Mr. Sam's right eye, having undergone cataract surgery, now had good vision at 9/10. In contrast, his left eye suffered from a severe grade 4 cataract, with vision reduced to 2/10. The doctor prescribed surgery to replace the clouded lens, aiming to prevent blindness. The procedure would also help equalize vision between both eyes, avoiding significant discrepancies that could lead to eye strain or headaches.

Staff at the High-Tech Eye Center measure Mr. Sam's eye pressure. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

The cataract in his left eye was emulsified using ultrasound waves (phacoemulsification), followed by the implantation of an intraocular lens. During a follow-up examination one week after surgery, Mr. Sam's left eye achieved 9/10 vision.

The doctor advised Mr. Sam to rest, avoid dust exposure, and limit heavy lifting or strenuous activities, as these could pose a risk of injury during the initial weeks following surgery. Patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, and undergo regular eye examinations to detect and address any abnormalities promptly.

Nhat Minh