Now doctors have developed a revolutionary operation which can permanently correct their vision too. As we age, the lens becomes stiffer, which means we can no longer change focus easily. The condition, presbyopia, means, for example, that people have to hold the newspaper further away to read it and eventually need reading glasses.

Some also struggle with distance vision, so need bifocal or varifocal spectacles. Surgeons have now found that replacing the natural lens with an artificial one can correct the problem. The lens is specially designed so the person can focus on near and distant objects. The technique is similar to that used in cataract operations when cloudy lenses are replaced.

robert Morris, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon, is one of 50 UK surgeons offering the PRELEX technique. He said 70 per cent who have the operation never need glasses again. The surgery, unavailable on the NHS, costs around £2200 per eye. It takes 15-30 minutes for each eye and can be done under local or general anaesthetic.

DAILY EXPRESS – SEPTEMBER 22nd 2003