Multifocal IOL Implants

INTRAOCULAR 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, a patient can typically 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.

An IOL is an implanted synthetic lens that replaces the eye’s natural lens. The type of IOL determines the quality of vision improvement.

Cataract or IOL patients may still enjoy the benefits of LASIK if they have refractive error (corneal irregularities) that requires correction and provided they meet the specifications that determine them to be good candidates for LASIK.

Dr. O’Day counsels each patient about their best IOL option according to lifestyle, medical and eye health history, and after performing a comprehensive examination.

Monofocal IOL

Monofocal intraocular lenses are the ‘standard’ or conventional type of IOL and by definition (Mono) provide good vision correction for one distance only. The power of the lens is precalculated for each individual, generally for far vision. Glasses for reading will still be needed, and patients with astigmatism may still require glasses to sharpen their distance vision.

Multifocal IOL

Multifocal intraocular lenses, or premium IOLs, are designed with several focusing zones precalculated on the lens and provide vision correction at all distances – close-up, intermediate and far. Multifocal IOLs are more costly and generally not fully covered by insurance but are frequently preferred over Monofocal IOLs because they can reduce or completely eliminate the need for reading glasses.

Toric IOL

Toric IOLs are engineered something like the shape of a donut and are specifically designed to correct astigmatism.

Accommodating IOL

"Accommodation" refers to the ability of the eye to change focus. An Accommodating IOL is also a premium IOL, specifically designed so it can be easily moved by the ciliary muscle, allowing the eye to focus at a greater range of distances.

Limbal Relaxing Incisions

Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) are a refractive surgical procedure to correct minor astigmatism in the eye. Incisions are made at the opposite edges of the cornea, following the curve of the iris, causing a slight flattening of the cornea. These incisions do not cause glare and other visual effects that result from other corneal surgeries like Radial Keratotomy.

LRI have become the most common technique to correct astigmatism as part of cataract surgery. They are simpler and less expensive than laser surgery such as LASIK or PRK. Recovery is generally quick and painless, although the patient may experience slight discomfort.