What is an lntraocular lens (IOL)
An IOL is an artificial lens implanted into-the eye to replace the eye’s natural lens. It is put in place during cataract surgery after the cloudy lens has been removed.
What are the different types of IOLs?
MONOFOCAL IOLs
A monofocal lens is the most common type of implant used for cataract surgery. Monofocal lenses are different from a natural lens because they can not bend or stretch when focusing. They give a fixed focus for only one distance. The lens can be selected so you can see better at distance or up close but you will not be able to see both near and far in that eye. There are three basic options for monofocal lenses. These work best if you do not have significant astigmatism to correct .
- Both eye set for distance. You will need glassed to fine tune for astigmatism as well as for computer and for near
- One eye set for distance and one for intermediate (modified monovision or blended vision) Vision is good for distance and computer but you will need glasses for fine print and possibly driving
- Monovision: One eye is set for distance and one is set for near. This is best for individuals who are used to this with contact lenses, as it may impair depth perception
TORIC IOLS
Toric IOLs are the only IOL designed to patients with astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when either the lens or the cornea of the eye is irregularly shaped instead of the curvature of your eye being round it is shaped more like a football . Toric lenses can be set for distance or near vision similar to monofocal lenses . In addition Multifocal lenses are also available with astigmatism (toric) correction allowing patients to see both distance and near.
Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal intraocular lenses provide clear vision for both far and near. Unlike a monofocal lens, you can focus on varying distances. These lenses use diffraction technology to achieve the range of vision and because of this patients may experience increase halos and glare. The Symfony lens is like a multifocal but provides and extended range of vision offering quality distance and intermediate vision. It boasts less glare and halos. Patients may need a low power reading glass for tiny print.
How Should You Choose an lntraocular lens?
The type of IOL your eye doctor recommends will depend on several factors: the extent of your astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness. If you have coexisting eye disease such as macular degeneration or glaucoma, this may impact the type of lens recommended for you.
Your Lifestyle
When choosing and IOL , it’s important to think about your lifestyle. If you know that you want to have decreased dependence on glasses for most activities, you will want to consider premium lenses. You will also want to think about what kind of activities you would like to be able to do without glasses and whether these involve near or far distances.
Cost of Premium IOLs
Premium lenses have additional features not found in conventional monofocal lenses and cost more than conventional lenses. The cost of premium lenses can vary by doctor and unfortunately, health insurance companies do not consider these additional features as medical necessities. Therefore, you will incur additional out-of-pocket expenses for your cataract surgery if you choose a premium lens. The average additional cost of surgery with premiums lenses ranges between $1400.00 and $2000.00 per eye.
If you would like to discuss your premium lens options, please contact our practice for an appointment to find out your exact quote.
VISION SOLUTIONS IN JACKSONVILLE, NC
Precision is essential in cataract surgery and IOL implantation. That ‘s why you need an experienced ophthalmologist to perform your lens replacement! At Office Park Eye Center in Jacksonville, NC, we have over 30 years of experience. That means we have a professional team that can take care of all you eye care needs.
Thanks to the latest technology, we strive to make our procedures as safe as possible and to provide you with the optimum visual outcome. Schedule an appointment with us today!