During your cataract surgery research, were you struck by the sheer volume of information out there on IOLs? We get it, it can be difficult to sift through all of the jargon and get down to what you really need to know about IOLs (intraocular lenses.) That’s why we put together this short, handy guide to IOLs!
What Is an IOL?
An IOL, or intraocular lens, is a device designed to mimic the natural lens. During cataract surgery, after the natural lens is removed, an IOL is what takes its place.
IOLs are made to look and function like your natural lens. IOLs are made from biologically compatible material and will not disrupt the natural functions of your eye. The difference between your natural lens and an IOL is that an IOL can offer refractive power that your natural lens may not. IOLs come in many different types, some of which can correct vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. There is even an IOL that can correct presbyopia!
Types of IOLs
As we mentioned above, there are a lot of options when it comes to IOLs. Different IOLs can correct different problems.
Standard Monofocal IOLs
Monofocal IOLs allow patients to focus at one distance: near, intermediate or far. This IOL type may be best for people with cataracts in both eyes. You and your doctor will choose which focus will provide you with the most benefit. This focus will not change over time. This type of IOL is typically covered by insurance.
Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal IOLs, as the name suggests, allow you to focus at multiple distances. Multifocal IOLs allow cataract patients to rely less on reading and bifocal glasses after surgery. These IOLs allow patients to focus seamlessly between near, far and intermediate distances!
Toric IOLs
Toric IOLs were designed specifically with astigmatic patients in mind. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is shaped irregularly. This thing about an irregularly shaped cornea is that no two are the same. So, you need a special lens to correct astigmatism. Toric IOLs hold different refractive powers in different sections of the lens, and each one is made with your specific eye shape in mind.
Presbyopia IOLs
Until recently, not many treatments were available to treat presbyopia. Presbyopia, often called “vision over 40”, causes patients to lose their near vision. This means that close objects are very difficult to see, and patients find themselves reaching for reading glasses. This can be frustrating for many reasons. Now, with presbyopia-correcting IOLs, cataract patients have the opportunity to correct their presbyopia and their cataracts during one surgery!
With premium IOLs, you can correct more than just cataracts. Talk to your doctor at Stahl to determine which IOL best suits your needs and lifestyle. To schedule your cataract consultation, contact Stahl Eyecare Experts in Manhattan. We look forward to helping you gain the best vision of your life!
