The most effective lens to use depends on the patient’s individual preferences and goals for their vision. Some lenses eliminate the need for glasses or contacts after cataract surgery, providing most patients with convenient, effective results for their specific vision conditions.
Multifocal IOLs allow for vision correction at near, intermediate and far distances, eliminating the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses for most patients. This means that many patients can read the text on items such as prescription bottles, magazines, newspapers and computer screens, while also providing the ability to see items at a distance free from glasses or bifocals.
These choices were not always available for cataract patients. In the past, cataract surgery only involved monofocal lenses, which could only focus on objects near or far, but not accommodate varying distances. Patients receiving a monofocal lens still had to rely on glasses or contact lenses after surgery to see clearly at all distances.
Multifocal IOLs have a slightly greater tendency to cause night vision complaints than other IOLs, so those who drive a great deal at night should discuss this with their eye doctor. The vast majority of patients with these IOLs, however, are not bothered by night vision complaints. Additionally, multifocal lenses usually need to be implanted in both eyes before full adaptation can occur.
In traditional cataract surgery, the surgeon implants a monofocal artificial lens, commonly called an intraocular lens (IOL). If you have astigmatism however, you may still experience blurred and distorted vision because a standard IOL cannot correct corneal astigmatism. A Toric IOL corrects for both conditions (cataracts and astigmatism) simultaneously.
The Toric IOL is a foldable, single piece lens that is implanted during cataract surgery to replace the clouded lens. The unique design of the Toric IOL makes it possible to reduce or eliminate corneal astigmatism and significantly improve uncorrected distance vision. A Toric lens provides quality distance vision, independent of eyeglasses and contact lenses. Reading and computer glasses are still required with this lens. With standard cataract surgery, using a monofocal lens, bifocal glasses would be needed.
Quantum Vision Centers offers advanced IOLs for patients wishing to further improve their vision. The best lens for you depends on many factors, including your lifestyle and specific vision needs. In addition to removing the symptoms of cataracts, these advanced lenses can also correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and even age-related loss of near vision (presbyopia). ATIOLs can help reduce or even eliminate the need for eyeglasses and contacts. Additional costs are involved, and many patients choose to use an interest-free financing option or pay with cash or credit card. Contact us to discuss your options.
