Lens Implants
Lens Implants
Twenty five years ago the usual treatment for cataracts was removal of the clouded lens followed by wearing glasses with very thick lenses, while Presbyopia required the use of reading glasses.
Today, due to the amazing advancements in IOL technology over the past two decades, most patients can hope for and achieve good to excellent vision quality from a lens implant without the need for glasses at all.
Depending on the type selected, an IOL can also correct the eye’s existing refractive error (myopia or hyperopia) and a patient who has received an IOL can still have their vision further improved with LASIK.
IOLs
An IOL is an implanted synthetic lens that replaces the eye’s natural lens. The type of IOL determines the quality of vision improvement.
Single Focus or Monofocal IOLs
Single focus intraocular lenses were the first type of IOL and by definition (mono) provide good vision correction for one distance only. That distance is pre-calculated for the lens before surgery.
Glasses may still be needed for computer work, reading and other close-up tasks. Patients with astigmatism may also require glasses to sharpen their distance vision. If your cataract surgery involves both eyes, you might consider a technique called “Blended Vision”. This means configuring the IOL in one eye for near vision and the other IOL for distance vision.
PREMIUM IOLs:
After age 45, replacement of the eye’s lens with advanced Presbyopia-correcting Premium IOLs is the only way to obtain both distance and up close vision without glasses. Most patients who choose premium IOLs can enjoy excellent vision, free from glasses, and never have to worry again about cataracts or changes in prescription.
Premium Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal intraocular lenses have multiple focusing zones pre-calculated on the lens and enable most people to see the big picture, even in low light, without missing the details. There are several types and brands of these lenses, each providing unique qualities such as better reading or better options for night driving.
Premium Accommodating IOLs
These are the most advanced type of Premium IOL. “Accommodation” refers to the ability of the eye to change focus using the small muscles that regulate the shape and position of the natural lens. As Presbyopia advances, these muscles are less able to flex and move the lens.
Refractive Lens Exchange
Refractive Lens Exchange is used to describe the IOL implant procedure for patients who do not have advanced cataracts.
Phakic IOL
‘Phakic’ means the natural lens of the eye is left in place and a permanent internal contact lens is inserted. Phakic IOLs are not used in cases where cataracts are present. This technique can be used to treat a wide range of nearsightedness and farsightedness for people with very strong prescriptions or thin corneas that disqualify them from having LASIK.
For more information on IOLs including FAQs, request our free illustrated guide.
