Intraocular lenses or IOLs are small artificial lenses that are a significant part of cataract surgery. They can be described as surgically implanted contacts. The lenses are created to replace the natural ones that have been damaged by cataracts. The lens is inserted beneath the cornea, replacing or supporting the natural lens.
Patients who struggle with cloudy vision caused by cataracts can benefit from IOLs. The patient can receive the benefits of good sight without the need for glasses or contacts.
During cataract surgery, the natural lens is removed and replaced with the intraocular lens. Special lenses can be used to treat the cataract problem while also addressing other vision problems. Patients who have had cataract surgery can receive premium lenses that can make their vision better than ever.
The lenses can be used to address issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or refractive errors. Premium IOLs provide sharp vision at any distance, reducing dependence on other vision-correcting eyewear.
There are different types of IOLs available. Each patient can choose the lens that provides specific benefits to their vision. The eye specialist may make recommendations but the patient will need to make the final decision. Each situation is unique and you need to determine the IOL that will best serve your requirements.
Premium IOLs serve different functions and an eye evaluation will help to determine exactly what you need. If you need to get cataract surgery, it is a good idea to find out all you can about intraocular lenses.
Monofocal IOLs are the most basic types of premium IOLs. These types of lenses are designed to focus only on one distance. This means that the eye doctor can choose a lens for near, mid, or long-distance focus.
Only one distance can be selected for the specific lens but the patient can have two different IOLs for each eye. These types of IOLs tend to be the least expensive option. In most cases, patients will still need to complement their eyesight with glasses or contacts.
Unlike monofocals, multifocal IOLs can help patients to focus on both distance and near vision. These lenses are designed with special concentric rings that allow images at various distances to be focused on the retina. These IOLs usually provide a high level of vision at different distances. Multifocal IOLs reduce the need to use complementary corrective eyewear like contacts or glasses.
Cataract patients who suffer from corneal astigmatism can benefit from Toric IOLs. Astigmatism is a condition that occurs when the corneas have an irregular shape. This condition causes blurry vision even when the individual is wearing regular contacts.
These lenses can be used to correct near or distance vision, but not both at the same time. Toric IOLs can be customized to correct astigmatism, allowing the patient to experience much-improved vision.
If you are getting cataract surgery, you need to make the best choice when it comes to premium IOLs. It is, however, important to know that intraocular lens are not for everyone. When you visit the eye doctor, you will need an evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate.
To know more about intraocular lenses, visit Coastal Vision Medical Group at our offices in Norco, California, Orange, California, Irvine, California, and Long Beach, California. You can also call (888) 501-4496 to book an appointment.