Given that cataract surgery removes your natural lenses, you’ll receive an artificial lens as a replacement — and it’s not a one-size-fits-all arrangement.
Since the first intraocular lens (IOL) was implanted in 1949, techniques and technologies have advanced quite a bit. Today, you have a choice between monofocal or multifocal lenses for cataract surgery.
Ophthalmologist Randa Garrana, MD, and our team at Advanced Lasik can help you make the right choice. Expertly acquainted with the latest developments and procedural refinements, Dr. Garrana delivers the finest in cataract care for patients who are ready to restore clear vision.
In recognition of Cataract Awareness Month this June, we’re here to help you make an informed IOL choice for your upcoming cataract procedure. Let’s take a closer look.
As the name implies, monofocal lenses correct your vision for a single viewing distance. You’ll need corrective lenses (eyeglasses or contact lenses) to bring other distances into sharp focus.
Monofocal lenses are the type used most often, even today, and while you can choose lenses to correct medium or close vision, most procedures correct for distance.
There’s even an option for blended vision, where one eye receives distance correction and the other receives close correction. Your eyes learn to work together to improve both near and far focusing.
Some patients have problems adapting to monofocal lenses, and you’ll still need to rely on corrective lenses for other distance focusing.
Multifocal lenses have corrections for near, medium, and far focuses in a single lens. Your brain adapts, using the appropriate focusing power depending on your needs at the moment.
Considered a premium option, multifocal lenses are more expensive and may not be covered by all health insurance plans. Multifocal lenses have a longer adjustment period after surgery, and you may have a higher risk of glare and halos after surgery.
A big factor for some patients is a desire to rely less on glasses and contacts after cataract surgery. If this is important to you, then multifocal lenses may be your best option. Monofocal lenses require the use of corrective lenses for clear vision at focal distances other than that provided by the IOL.
For a complete picture of cataract surgery and your IOL choices, contact your nearest Advanced Lasik office to schedule your appointment today. We’re located in the Midtown East section of New York City, as well as Long Beach and Duarte, California.
