Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
What is an IOL and How Does it Work?
An IOL replaces your natural lens that contains the cataract. An IOL focuses light that comes into your eyes through the cornea and pupil onto the retina–the sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that relays images through the optic nerve to the brain. Most IOLs are made of a flexible, foldable material and are about one-third of the size of a dime. There are different types of IOLs that serve different functions for the eyes.
What are the Different Types of IOLs Available?
The type of IOL implanted will affect how you see when you are not wearing eyeglasses. Glasses may still be needed by some people for some activities. In certain cases, cost may be a deciding factor for you if you have the option of selecting special premium IOLs that may reduce your dependency on glasses.
The following are the different types of IOLs that are available:
This common IOL type has been used for several decades. Monofocal IOL, a singular focus lens, is set to provide best corrected vision at near, intermediate or far distances. Most people who choose monofocals have their IOLs set for distance vision and use reading glasses for near activities. On the other hand, a person whose IOLs were set to correct near vision would need glasses to see distant objects clearly. Insurance covers monofocal IOLs.
These IOL types may reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Multifocal IOLs are designed with a series of focal zones or rings. When incoming light focuses through the zones, you may be able to see both near and distant objects clearly. The design of the accommodative lens allows certain eye muscles to move the IOL forward and backward, changing the focus much as it would with a natural lens, to see both at near and distance vision. Each person’s success with these IOLs may depend on the size of his or her pupils and other eye health factors. The ability to read and perform other tasks without glasses varies from person to person. However, in recent years, with improvements in technology that enable us to more accurately predict lens power, we have been able to get more and more patients independent from glasses. These premium lenses are not covered by insurance. Talk to your OCB eye doctor about your unique situation and whether these lenses are an option for you.
This is a monofocal IOL, with astigmatism correction built into the lens. Astigmatism distorts or blurs the ability to see both near and distant objects. The cornea of a person with astigmatism is oval in shape and requires more optical correction. People with significant degrees of astigmatism are usually very satisfied with toric IOLs. Insurance does not cover this type of IOL. There are other alternatives to correcting astigmatism such as glasses or contact lenses after surgery that your OCB eye doctor can discuss this with you.
Light Adjustable Lenses (LALs) are an innovative and trusted technology developed over the past decade. Unlike traditional intraocular lenses (IOLs), where your surgeon must determine the lens power before surgery based on measurements and calculations, LALs provide the unique ability to fine-tune your vision after surgery. This allows you and your surgeon to work together postoperatively to customize the lens power and optimize your visual outcome based on your individual needs and preferences.
Scan the QR code below to learn more about the differences between fixed-power lenses–Monofocal, EDOF, Multifocal, and Toric IOLs–and adjustable lenses.
Choosing the IOL that is Best for You
At OCB, you and your family will be supported every step of the way throughout your cataract surgery journey. The process below is designed to help you make an informed and confident decision about your lens choice:
- Schedule your cataract consultation today!
- Arrive for your earliest scheduled appointment on the day of your consultation.
- Before meeting with your surgeon, you will undergo a series of specialized tests. These evaluations provide important measurements and information that help determine which intraocular lens (IOL) options are best suited for your eyes and visual needs.
- Meet with your surgeon to review your lens options.
- Your surgeon will discuss the IOLs for which you are a candidate, explain the benefits of each option, and review associated costs and insurance coverage.
- Choose the lens that best fits your lifestyle and vision goals.
- With guidance from your care team, you will make an informed decision about the lens option that aligns best with your individual needs and expectations by the end of your consultation!
