Why Can’t I see Clearly?

Why Can’t I see Clearly?

Why You Can’t See Your TV or Cell Phone Clearly as You Get Older

It’s a common story  one day you’re reading your phone without a problem, and the next, you’re squinting to see the text or struggling to focus on the TV across the room. These changes can sneak up on you, but they’re a normal part of ageing. At Vision Care, we often hear patients say, “My eyes were fine last year what happened?” Here’s what’s going on and what you can do about it.

Presbyopia

Around your mid-40s, the natural lens inside your eye starts to lose flexibility. This condition is called presbyopia, and it makes it harder to focus on things up close like your phone, books, or a menu. You might find yourself holding your phone farther away or increasing the font size.

Terms used by doctors

  • Nearsightedness (Myopia): Distant vision is blurry.

  • Astigmatism: Blurred or distorted vision at all distances.

  • Cataracts: Clouding of the natural lens, often developing with age, affecting clarity and contrast.

out of focus TV need glasses

The Bottom Line


Vision changes with age are normal, but they don’t have to limit your life. The sooner we pinpoint the cause, the sooner you can get back to enjoying crisp, clear sight  whether it’s for your favourite TV show or your daily scroll.

“I was nervous about getting laser eye surgery, but the team at Vision Care made me feel completely at ease from day one. The consultation was thorough, and Dr. Schmidt explained everything clearly. The procedure was quick, painless, and within 24 hours I could see clearly without glasses for the first time in 20 years. It’s honestly life-changing—I wish I’d done it sooner.”

— Mark T., Auckland

Engineer

What Is Laser Eye Surgery? FAQ

What Is Laser Eye Surgery? FAQ

laser surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about laser eye surgery? We’ve compiled answers to the questions our Vision Care team hears most often  so you can feel confident in your decision.

Does laser eye surgery hurt?

Most patients feel no pain during the procedure. You may notice a little pressure or a mild sensation while the laser is working, but it’s over in seconds.

Most patients describe the feeling as “odd” or “strange” but not painful. The laser treatment itself usually takes less than 30 seconds per eye.

does exe surgery hurt?
patient can't see clearly without glasses

How long does the recovery take?

Clear vision often arrives within 24–48 hours. Your eyes may continue to adjust and sharpen over the first few weeks, and follow-up appointments help ensure you’re healing perfectly. Most patients return to work or normal activities within a couple of days.

Am I guaranteed to throw away my glasses?

Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, but results depend on your prescription, eye health, and unique anatomy. That’s why we perform a detailed pre-assessment to ensure we set realistic expectations and recommend the right procedure for your eyes.

doctor doing eye exam

What’s the difference between LASIK and SMILE?

Both procedures use advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea and correct vision, but SMILE is a minimally invasive technique. SMILE requires only a tiny incision, which means faster healing and less risk of dry eyes compared to LASIK

The True Cost of Glasses Over Time

The True Cost of Glasses Over Time

cost of contact lenses

The True Cost of Glasses Over Time

The average pair of prescription glasses can cost between $300–$800 depending on the frames, coatings, and lenses.

Many people update their prescription every 2 years, which means:

  • $500 (average) × every 2 years × 40 years = $10,000 or more over a lifetime.

  • Add in a second pair for emergencies or style changes, and you can easily double that number.

Prescription Sunglasses – The Luxury That Adds Up

Prescription sunglasses often cost $400–$600 per pair.

If you replace them every 3–5 years, that’s $3,000–$5,000 over your lifetime.

cost of prescription sunglasses
cost contact lenses

Contact Lenses – A Daily Expense

Contact lenses seem inexpensive month-to-month, but they’re one of the biggest lifetime costs. Average daily lenses: $1.50–$3 per day = $550–$1,000 per year. Over 40 years, that’s between $22,000–$40,000 and that doesn’t include cleaning solutions or eye drops.

More Than Just Savings –

It’s a Lifestyle Upgrade

Beyond the money saved, there’s the convenience. With modern laser eye surgery, your vision can be clearer, sharper, and more natural than ever beforewithout the maintenance and constant expenses of corrective eyewear.

couple gym no glasses

Adding It All Up

For the average person, the lifetime cost of glasses, contacts, and prescription sunglasses can easily exceed $40,000–$50,000.

Laser eye surgery whether it’s SMILE, LASIK, or PRK is a one-time investment that can pay for itself within just a few years. 

Does Eye Surgery Hurt? What You Need to Know?

Does Eye Surgery Hurt? What You Need to Know?

does exe surgery hurt?

Does Eye Surgery Hurt? What You Need to Know

If you’re considering laser eye surgery whether it’s SMILE, LASIK, or PRK it’s natural to wonder: “Will it hurt?”At Vision Care, this is one of the most common questions our patients ask during their consultation. The short answer is no, most patients do not experience pain during the procedure.

Most patients describe the feeling as “odd” or “strange” but not painful. The laser treatment itself usually takes less than 30 seconds per eye.

How We Keep You Comfortable: Anaesthetic Eye Drops.

  • These drops work within seconds, blocking pain signals from the cornea.

  • The numbing effect lasts throughout the procedure, so you won’t feel any sharp sensations only a gentle pressure at times.

Advanced Technology Means Comfort Comes First.

The laser treatment itself often takes less than 30 seconds per eye, meaning your time in the surgical suite is short.

  • Light pressure on the eye from a gentle support ring

  • A cool or warm sensation as the laser reshapes the cornea

After the Procedure

  • Mild dryness

  • Slight grittiness (like an eyelash in your eye)

  • Temporary light sensitivity

For most LASIK and SMILE patients, these symptoms improve within 24–48 hours. PRK may take a little longer to heal.

happy eye patient
patient happy after laser surgery

Pain Management After Surgery

Your Vision Care team will provide:

  • Prescribed lubricating and anti-inflammatory eye drops

  • Protective eyewear for sun and wind protection

  • A personalised recovery plan

  • 24/7 access to your surgical team for reassurance

Why Can’t I See My Phone or TV?

cost of prescription sunglasses

The True Cost of Glasses Over Time?

What is Laser Eye Surgery? FAQ?