What Does An Intraocular Lens Do?

When it’s time for cataract surgery, one thing you’ll have to decide is which intraocular lens, or IOL, to take the place of your cloudy cataract lens. IOLs replace the focusing power of your natural lens.

Prior to cataract surgery, your cataract surgeon will take accurate measurements of your eye to help determine the right IOL for you. Just like prescription contacts and glasses, IOLs come in different focusing powers. 

However, intraocular lenses are designed to remain in your eyes for the rest of your life. Keep reading to learn more about intraocular lenses and what they do!

What Are IOLs Made Of? 

The materials acrylic or silicone make up most intraocular lenses. They also have a coat with a unique material that protects your eyes against the sun’s harmful UV rays. 

IOLs are biocompatible and don’t react with your eyes or harm other structures in the eyes.

Types of IOL

There are different IOLs to choose from. The best intraocular lens for you will depend on various factors like your unique vision needs and lifestyle. 

Monofocal IOLs

Most medical insurance plans cover monofocal IOLs, also called standard IOLs.These implants provide the sharpest focus at only one distance.

Most people choose to have the lens to distance vision used for driving, seeing faraway objects, and walking. That means you’ll still need glasses to see clearly for near and intermediate distances.

While standard lenses correct your sight at only one distance, premium lenses improve vision at multiple distances.

Toric or Astigmatism-Correcting IOLs

You’ll need toric lens implants to correct your refractive error if you have astigmatism. Astigmatism is an imperfection in the curvature of your cornea. 

Instead of having the shape of a sphere, a cornea with astigmatism has a shape more like a football. This shape results in blurred or distorted vision. 

Although there is often an additional cost, toric IOL corrects astigmatism, minimizing your need for contacts or glasses post-op.

Multifocal IOLs

Multifocal lens implants are premium lenses with different zones set at varying focusing powers. The various zones of a monofocal lens split the light between two distances, enabling you to focus on near and far objects without needing prescription glasses or contacts.

Multifocal lenses work great during the day. However, they can make you see glares and halos around lights at night. 

There are different kinds of multifocal IOLs, including the Tecnis multifocal lens and Restor lens.

Extended Depth of Focus IOLs

Extended depth of focus lenses implants are another type of premium lens option that stretches and manipulates light rays to deliver a broader range of vision. These IOLs offer functional up-close vision and excellent intermediate and distant vision.

That means you might still require prescription glasses to read fine print. Extended depth of focus lenses are perfect if you spend a lot of time on your computer or lead an active lifestyle. 

Top-Rated Cataract Surgeons

It may be time for cataract surgery if performing everyday routine activities has become increasingly difficult due to cataracts. The expert doctors at Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Arizona will recommend when to have your cataracts removed. 

They’ll also take time before your procedure to help you choose the right IOL for you.

Do to know for sure it’s time for cataract surgery and your IOL options? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Arizona in Phoenix, AZ, today!