When the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, eventually disrupting normal vision, the inevitable solution is cataract surgery. During cataract surgery, the lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an IOL (intraocular lens). Intraocular lenses not only restore blurred vision with the removal of cataracts but can also correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and astigmatism.
There are 4 main different lens options: what are they? Monofocal, multifocal, toric and light-adjustable lenses are the most used lenses in cataract surgery. Monofocal lenses are the most typical of the lens options to be implanted. They are designed for the singular purpose of providing the best vision possible at a distance. Most patients will require prescription glasses for close-up vision needs such as reading. Multifocal lenses are advanced lenses that provide clear vision of objects at both near and far distances. Toric lenses are premium lenses built into monofocal or presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses that treat astigmatism along with nearsightedness or farsightedness. Light-adjustable lenses are a newer type of monofocal that can be customized after surgery through a series of light treatment procedures due to the nature of its photosensitive material. It allows the ophthalmologist to customize your unique vision to 20/20 without glasses.
Choosing the right surgeon for your cataract removal and intraocular lens implant surgery is important because the conversations you have with your doctor will determine which lens option is right for you. Criteria for each patient will be different based on several factors including personality, visual goals, value and cost, refractive error correction, age, other present eye conditions, and available technology.
At Pendleton Eye, we are focused on learning and creating the best patient profile to provide you with leading-edge surgical options to ensure your best vision. To learn more about the different lens options for cataract surgery, call today at 760-758-2008 or book your consultation online at WEBSITE.
