Living With Healthy Hunger Health Blog
If you’ve been diagnosed with a cataract, one decision you’ll need to make is which type of artificial lens (IOL or intraocular lens) to have implanted during cataract removal surgery.
With options ranging from basic monofocal lenses covered by insurance to advanced presbyopia-correcting lenses that help minimize glasses dependence, selecting the right model tailored to your lifestyle deserves careful consideration.
Monofocal IOLs: The Basics
Monofocal lenses come standard with cataract surgery and are fully covered by insurance. As the name suggests, they correct vision at one range – typically distance. So while monofocal IOLs restore clear distance eyesight, reading glasses are still required post-surgery for near tasks. These single focus lenses are suitable if you don’t mind wearing glasses for some activities.
Weighing Presbyopia-Correcting Lens Upgrades
Presbyopia-correcting IOLs are specialty lenses that enable clear vision at multiple ranges – some at two, others at up to three. By reducing glasses dependence, these versatile lenses unlock freedom in your activities.
Types include trifocal lenses for distance, computer work and reading vision, and extended depth of focus lenses with a continuous range of sharp sight. Weigh factors like your lifestyle needs, eye health, astigmatism status, and cost.
Accounting for Astigmatism
If you have astigmatism, a toric lens that corrects the corneal irregularity will be required for optimal visual outcomes. Toric models are available for both standard monofocal lenses, as well as presbyopia-correcting lens options. Insurance does not cover toric upgrades however.
The Importance of the Right Fit
With the variety of IOL technologies available today during cataract surgery, selecting one aligned to your individual eye health and lifestyle is key. Have an in-depth discussion with your ophthalmic surgeon about your needs and activities impacted by vision loss to choose the ideal replacement lens. At practices such as Eduardo Besser’s, cataract treatment is highly personalized to match unique patient goals.
Is Presbyopia-Correcting Lens Implant Right For Me?
Determining if you are a good candidate for a presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens depends on several factors. Your ophthalmologist will conduct thorough preoperative testing of your eyes to check for any health conditions that may preclude implant options.
They will also discuss your lifestyle and vision goals – if you require sharp vision at varying distances for work and leisure without glasses, then a multifocal or extended depth of focus lens may suit your needs. However, these lenses may not be ideal options if you have certain pre-existing conditions like macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
Types of Presbyopia-Correcting Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
- Trifocal IOLs like the PanOptix or At Lisa provide superior near, intermediate, and distance vision by having three focal points. However, they can have more issues with glare and halos compared to extended depth of focus lenses.
- Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses like the Vivity from Alcon provide excellent distance and intermediate vision with high rates of spectacle independence, but may not offer as sharp near vision as trifocals.
- Non-diffractive lenses like the Crystalens offer excellent clarity and the lowest incidence of visual side effects like glare, making them good options for those sensitive or with pre-existing eye conditions. However, these provide less near vision support.
Factors like lifestyle needs, presence of astigmatism, tolerance for glare/halos, and cost help determine which presbyopia-correcting lens technology is most suitable. No one lens is universally ideal for every patient. Discussing eye health status and vision priorities with your eye doctor helps identify the optimal match.
