The range of treatment options for patients with vision problems has expanded dramatically over the past two decades. This has helped to improve outcomes for patients while delivering shorter recovery times. But with so many possibilities available for vision correction, cataract removal and glaucoma surgery, how can patients make informed decisions that give them the best chance of getting the result they expect? While some turn to the internet or rely on the experiences of friends and family, the role of experienced ophthalmologists in demystifying treatment options is now greater than ever, according to Professor Carlos Palomino Bautista, Head of Ophthalmology Services, at the University Hospital of Quirón in Madrid. He says his long career in ophthalmology can be divided into two periods – the era before patients had the internet, and the period thereafter. Each has its own pros and cons. “Patients are increasingly aware of what is possible. We have a lot of patients that come to a consultation with information found online,” he says. “They often have a particular lens or procedure in mind but sometimes, after examining them and discussing the specifics of their case, I help them to change their mind.” Every patient is different. Not only can age, vision and the physical characteristics of the eye vary considerably from one patient to the next, their needs differ depending on the kind of job they do and how they spend their spare time. For example, ophthalmic surgeons can now implant corrective lenses in the eye during cataract surgery. But deciding which one requires a detailed conversation between patient and surgeon. “For a patient with long-sightedness, who has glaucoma or macular degeneration, there is a specific lens that I would choose,” says Prof Palomino who is also Professor of Ophthalmology at the European University of Madrid...