IOL Lens Choices for Cataract Patients
- Posted on: Jul 19 2020
Cataract surgery has become so routine that it is sometimes easy to lose sight of the fact that the techniques and products used are remarkably advanced. This is especially true of the intraocular lenses (IOLs) that are surgically implanted in the eye near the end of cataract surgery.
These plastic implants, originally designed only to efficiently imitate the eye’s natural lenses, now provide capabilities that transcend the limitations of the cataract-clouded lenses they replace. New IOLs allow patients to reduce and even eliminate reliance on prescription lenses. Below, experienced Manhattan and Astoria ophthalmologist Dr. Gregory Pamel explores the exciting new world of IOL choices.
Beyond Monofocal
Multifocal IOLs represent the most dramatic improvement in IOL technology. As the name suggests, these lenses are able to focus on objects at various distances. Most offer two set fields of vision, but a new trifocal option allows clear vision at near, far and intermediate distances. Patients who receive these new trifocal IOLs can read a book, watch TV and look up to enjoy a sunset, all with the same permanent and resilient implanted lenses.
Among the many choices are the ReSTOR and Tecnis Multifocal lenses that bring close and distant objects into focus without eye muscle assistance. Crystalens provides this same full range of vision by using your eye’s natural muscle. The Visian Toric Implantable Collamer Lens is the first implantable lens that corrects for myopia and astigmatism at the same time.
One of the most impressive innovations is the AcrySof IQ PanOptix intraocular lens. It is the first IOL to offer trifocal vision, providing clear focus at near, intermediate and far distances. PanOptix works by splitting light into three focal points: The intermediate focal point for these exceptional lenses is 60 cm, which is within the optimal range for performing tasks using digital screens. This is more practical than the 80 cm focal point used by some other lenses. The near vision focal point is 40 cm, an ideal distance for reading and other close-range tasks. The third focal point is infinity, allowing clear, panoramic views of the world around you.
Sharper Image
Although adults who needed glasses or contacts before cataract surgery may not achieve 20/20 vision with these advanced IOLs, almost all patients who receive these lenses will see a real improvement in their vision. An estimated 80 percent of advanced IOL patients will have no need to rely on glasses or contacts, and nearly all will be able to pass a driver’s license exam without corrective lenses. In addition, the vast majority will not need reading glasses.
To learn more about IOL innovations, schedule an appointment with Dr. Pamel at his Manhattan or Astoria office by contacting Pamel Vision & Laser Group today.
Posted in: Cataract Surgery
