Are you preparing to have cataract surgery? Do you know what an IOL is? Making the decision to have any kind of surgery can be scary and overwhelming. But understanding the procedure can make a world of difference.
With cataracts, you may experience symptoms like blurry vision, difficulty driving, and discoloration. Cataracts are one of the number one reasons worldwide people go blind.
This is the most prevalent in older adults. Cataract surgery fixes this. It's no surprise then that cataract surgery is one of the most popular medical procedures in the country!
Having a healthy lens in your eye is an important part of how we see. The lens in your eye allows light to focus on your retina. From here, images are then sent to the brain.
But as you age, the natural lens might become cloudy. This means that you've developed a cataract.
During cataract surgery, your doctor will remove your eye's natural lens. As you cannot see without a lens, it's replaced with an artificial lens.
The artificial lens or IOL provides you with clear vision. Keep reading to learn more about IOLs and for 4 tips on how to choose one!
Are there different types of IOLs?
Yes, there are many types of IOLs to meet patient's different vision and lifestyle needs.
The types of IOLs are:
Monofocal IOL:
Monofocal IOLs are one of the most popular kinds of IOLs available. You can only see at one distance with a monofocal IOL.
For example, if you can sit down and read a book, you will still need glasses to see objects and signs at a distance.
Accommodating IOL:
An accommodating IOL works similarly to your eye's natural lens. This kind of IOL is able to focus on more than one distance. Most patients don't need glasses after cataract surgery with this IOL.
Multifocal IOL:
A multifocal IOL works like a bifocal or progressive lenses in a pair of glasses. You can see several distances, but it can take a few months for your brain to adjust.
Toric IOL:
Toric IOLs are the best option for patients with astigmatism. It minimizes the effects of astigmatism, so you don't need glasses.
4 Tips for Selecting an IOL
Since there are options for IOLs, picking the right one can be hard. Here are tips for picking out your IOL.
1. Talk with Your Doctor
It's common sense but talk to your doctor before you choose an IOL. They will be able to recommend the best IOL based on your lifestyle and needs.
2. Figure Out How Much You Can Spend
Thinking about your budget is important when making a decision. Any type of IOL that isn't the "standard" model is considered a premium lens.
Premium IOLs are not covered by insurance, so you'll have to pay a bit extra to get an IOL that isn't a monofocal lens.
3. Think About Your Lifestyle
Do you like to read? Do you enjoy driving? Think about your daily activities so you make the best decision.
If you like to read and write, accommodating or multifocal IOLs might be the best IOLs to consider. Each type of IOL has a purpose, so think about what you value most.
4. Decide if You Want to Wear Glasses
Premium IOLs give patients the opportunity to no longer need to wear glasses. If you're okay with glasses, a monofocal IOL could be a great option.
But if you don't want to wear glasses, you should consider a premium lens option instead. Why live life without visual freedom? You only get to enjoy life and your health once, so make the best decision for you!
Are you ready to have cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract screening at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Garden City, NY now!
