An intraocular lens (IOL) is a synthetic lens that is implanted in your eye during cataract surgery to replace the cloudy natural lens that has developed cataract. IOLs are designed to help restore clear vision, allowing you to perform daily activities like reading, driving, and using digital devices.
Multifocal Intraocular Lenses
- Monofocal IOLs
Monofocal IOLs are the most used type of lens. They provide clear vision at one distance, typically for distance vision. If you select a monofocal lens for distance, you may still need reading glasses for close-up tasks. Monofocal lenses are often covered by insurance.
- Best for: Patients who are happy wearing glasses or contacts for close-up vision after surgery.
- Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal IOLs allow you to see clearly at multiple distances, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses after cataract surgery. These lenses provide a range of vision from near too far, making them ideal for patients who want to minimize their dependence on corrective eyewear.
- Best for: Patients seeking more freedom from glasses and who want clear vision at all distances—near, intermediate, and far.
- Accommodative IOLs
Accommodative IOLs are designed to move and change shape inside the eye, mimicking the natural focusing ability of the eye. These lenses provide better focus at multiple distances, reducing the need for reading glasses. They offer excellent clarity at all distances without requiring frequent lens adjustments.
- Best for: Patients seeking a more natural, flexible range of vision and those looking for less dependence on glasses.
- Toric IOLs
Toric IOLs is designed specifically to correct astigmatism, a condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. These lenses improve the clarity of vision for those with astigmatism and are ideal for patients who want to achieve sharper vision without glasses or contact lenses.
- Best for: Patients with astigmatism who want to improve both cataracts and astigmatism in one procedure.
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs
EDOF IOLs are designed to provide a continuous range of vision, from near to far, with fewer visual disturbances like halos or glare. They offer a smoother transition between different focal points, improving overall visual clarity at varying distances.
- Best for: Patients who want clear vision across a wide range of distances and who want to reduce their dependence on glasses after surgery.
- Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is the first and only intraocular lens (IOL) that can be customized after cataract surgery to optimize your vision. Unlike traditional IOLs, the LAL allows fine-tuning of your vision after the eye has healed, providing a level of precision and personalization not previously possible.
- Best for: patients seeking customized vision after cataract surgery, especially those with astigmatism or a history of LASIK or PRK.
How to Choose the Right IOL for You
Selecting the right IOL depends on several factors, including your visual needs, lifestyle preferences, and overall eye health. During your pre-surgery consultation, our team will conduct a thorough eye exam and discuss your options with you to ensure the best possible outcome. We’ll take into consideration:
- Your current prescription and vision goals
- Any pre-existing eye conditions (such as astigmatism)
- Your preferences for distance, near, and intermediate vision
- Whether you’re willing to wear glasses after surgery
What to Expect During IOL Selection
Our team will help guide you through the IOL selection process. We use advanced diagnostic tools and imaging techniques to precisely measure the shape and size of your eye, which helps us determine the most appropriate IOL for your needs. We will also review the benefits and potential drawbacks of each option, ensuring you feel confident and informed in your decision.
