There are several intraocular lens (IOL) options for cataract surgery. Keep in mind that technologies and advancements continually emerge in the ophthalmology field. As of now the following are some of the most common types of intraocular lenses.
- Monofocal IOLs: These lenses have a single focus point, usually set for either distance vision or near vision. Patients may still require glasses for certain tasks, such as reading or driving, depending on the lens’s focal point.
- Multifocal IOLs: These lenses offer multiple focal points, allowing for both near and distance vision without the need for glasses for most activities. They work by dividing incoming light to create multiple images at different distances.
- Accommodative IOLs: These lenses are designed to move slightly within the eye, adjusting the focus and providing a range of vision. They aim to stimulate the natural accommodation of the eye’s natural lenses. However, in practice, these lenses do not perform as well as initially thought.
- Toric IOLs: These specialized lenses are used to correct astigmatism, in addition to cataract and refractive errors. They have different powers in different meridians of the lens, allowing for astigmatism correction in the distance.
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs: These lenses provide an extended range of vision, usually reducing the need for reading and computer glasses while maintaining good distance vision.
- Blue Light Filtering IOLs: Many of the above lenses also have a yellow-tint filter to block a portion of blue light, which some studies suggest might help reduce the impact of this wavelength of light on eye health.
- Light Adjustable Lenses (LAL): These lenses are made of a special photosensitive material that reacts to specific wavelengths of light. After the initial implantation, the patient wears special glasses outdoors to block UV light from the surface of the lens until healing has taken place. UV light exposure causes chemical changes within the lens, altering its refractive properties. This fact allows the ophthalmologist to use a specialized treatment device (RxSight) to fine tune the lens by adjusting through light exposure the desired visual correction.
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Your ophthalmologist with help to determine with type of IOL is best for your individual needs, considering factors like your lifestyle, visual requirements, and any existing eye conditions. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options with Claris Eye Surgery & LASIK, we’ll help you make an informed decision about your intraocular lens.