3 Tips For Choosing An IOL

Developing cataracts is a stressful part of getting older. In the end, it’s something that everyone goes through! The loss of vision, colors, and painful glare in your eyesight can be discouraging, to say the least.

But there is some good news. Due to cataracts being so prevalent, cataract surgery is a state-of-the-art procedure! In fact, it’s one of the safest and well-understood procedures.

Cataract surgery is somewhat of a misnomer. The goal of cataract surgery is not to remove the cataract. Instead, it’s to replace the entire lens of the eye.

This is because the cataract is completely ingrained in the lens. The replacement lens is an IOL.

IOLs are customizable and can reduce your need for glasses. Depending on the IOL you choose, you may not need glasses at all! Unsure about which IOL is right for you? Keep reading for 3 helpful tips about choosing the correct IOL!

1. Know the Types of IOLs

There are 4 main types of IOLs: monofocal, multifocal, accommodating, and toric. Here’s a quick breakdown.

Monofocal IOLs correct for only one distance. This means you will still need to use glasses after the surgery. You can decide between near vision or distance vision.

Multifocal IOLs correct for a variety of distances, like how bifocals function.

Accommodating IOLs also correct for different focal distances. They do so by moving inside your eye and are designed to move how your natural lens does.

Toric IOLs are specifically designed to correct astigmatism.

2. Decide What is Important for You

After you have researched the fundamentals, it’s time to list all the pros and cons of each kind of IOL.

Are you comfortable with glasses and looking for the least expensive option? Monofocals will give you reliable vision at a lower average price.

Want to reduce your need for glasses altogether? Multifocal lenses can help you, as can toric if you have astigmatism.

Would you like the benefits of multifocal IOLs and also a smoother transition? Accommodating IOLs move as close to your natural lens as possible.

It’s worth mentioning that IOLs are not guaranteed to stop you from needing glasses. Some patients will still have to wear glasses to fill in the gaps in their vision.

This is most likely if their vision was already very poor before the surgery. The majority of patients achieve noticeable better vision after cataract surgery. There’s no reason to live with cataracts!

3. Consult Your Doctor

You don’t have to have all the answers before your cataract screening! You’ll discuss your preferred IOL with your eye doctor. They can help you understand how each IOL works and what to expect with them.

Don’t have a cataract screening set up? You can schedule one with Arizona Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Glendale, AZ. At your screening, you’ll undergo tests on your vision.

This is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have about the procedure or recovery!

Ready to say goodbye to your cataracts? Schedule a cataract screening with Arizona Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Glendale, Arizona!