HomeAnswersOphthalmology (Eye Care)myopiaWhy is the visual acuity higher in my right eye?

Why do I have higher visual acuity in my right eye than the left?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At June 20, 2016
Reviewed AtFebruary 1, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had LASIK at the age of 26 and had 20/15 vision after the procedure. I had -4.5 R and 5.25 L before the surgery. I am now 31 and have developed some slight myopia (R - 0.25 and L - 0.50) and astigmatism. One thing I have always noticed was that both before LASIK and now, my left eye always seems a bit blurry when looking out of them separately (at a distance). At times, I feel that up close with my corrective lens on it is the reverse and my left is slightly clearer. I mean could this just be due to them being two separate organs and maybe my right eye has a higher visual acuity than my left eye at a distance? In addition, even without my glasses I can read things that my wife cannot at a distance. We had her vision checked thinking it must be myopia and she tested 20/20 or better. Though I do not really suffer from dryness, I use Similasan drops frequently throughout the day as a protective measure. I work long hours in the computer, probably for 12 or more a day. I have anti-glare coatings on my glasses.I asked my optometrist if I should be worried about the excessive time on a computer and he said as long as I am using the drops and resting my eyes every 20-30 minutes it should have no effect on my vision, as my issues are related to the length of my eyeball. Even though my prescription is weak, I have always been extremely sensitive to the difference in both eyes. I know it sounds absurd. Some things I do are lubricate, rest muscles, where my glasses which are anti-glare, etc., and have recently changed to lights in my working areas that mimic daylight. Could you summarize and give me a detailed answer as I am actually OCD (diagnosed) and I obsess about this for some reason. I felt that coming here and getting a detailed answer from an ophthalmologist might be more enlightening. Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is common to have different power in both eyes. Also, different vision in both eyes. This is because of difference in optical properties of both eyes. In your case, the power of both the eyes is different. Higher in the right eye and this itself may be led to the difference in vision. Other possibilities can be, during LASIK, there might be some subtle changes in ablation leading to minor differences.As you have good vision in both the eyes and change is not more than one line. Both eyes best corrected vision is 6/6 and you need not worry at all. You may not have to wear glasses all the time. Just keep taking same the precautions as you do now while using computers. Use artificial tear drops whenever you feel dryness. You can send pictures of your eyes and old records for more details. I hope this helps you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Anand Yattinamani
Dr. Anand Yattinamani

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

lasikmyopia

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy