Has your eye doctor recommended cataract surgery? One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is what new intraocular lens (IOL) will replace your natural, cataract-affected lens.
Intraocular lenses, like multifocal IOLs, can considerably reduce or remove the need for visual aids. However, these lenses might not be the best choice for everyone.
Keep reading to learn more about whether you’re a candidate for multifocal IOLs.
What are Cataracts?
A cataract occurs when proteins in the natural lens of the eye break down and build up, causing the lens to become cloudy. Initially, cataracts don’t cause noticeable symptoms.
However, over time, more proteins may clump together and cloud more of your lens, seriously impacting your vision and making it difficult to perform routine tasks such as reading, cooking, driving, and running errands.
When this happens, your eye doctor will likely recommend cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a highly effective treatment that permanently eliminates cataracts.
It entails removing the cloudy lens and implanting an IOL in its place to restore clarity to your vision. An intraocular lens, such as the multifocal IOL, can correct vision at multiple distances, increasing your independence from glasses or contact lenses.
What is an IOL?
An IOL is a synthetic replacement lens that helps you see, just like the natural lens of the eye. It can be made of clear acrylic or plastic and is designed to deliver clear vision.
There are two main types of IOLs: standard monofocal and premium IOLs. A monofocal or standard IOL can offer clear vision at only one distance, either far, near, or intermediate.
So, if you opt for faraway vision, you’ll still need glasses for intermediate and near vision. Monofocal IOLs are covered by insurance, including Medicare.
Premium IOLs, like the multifocal IOL, can provide clear vision at multiple distances, including near, intermediate, and far away, significantly decreasing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. You can go from reading a book to watching TV to looking at something in the distance, all without visual aids.
While premium IOLs are not covered by insurance, patients who select these lenses find that the long-term benefits far outweigh the out-of-pocket costs.
Who is a Good Candidate for Multifocal IOLs?
You may be a candidate for multifocal IOLs if you:
- Desire greater freedom from glasses or contact lenses
- Have generally healthy eyes free from conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration
- Wish to correct your refractive error at the time of cataract surgery
- Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of cataract surgery with a multifocal IOL
Ultimately, you’ll have to undergo a thorough evaluation at Simone Eye Center to determine which lens is right for you. Your experienced eye doctor will measure your visual acuity, assess your eye health, and discuss your visual goals and lifestyle to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for multifocal IOLs.
What are the Benefits of Multifocal IOLs?
There are many benefits of selecting a multifocal IOL, including:
Increased Freedom from Glasses or Contact Lenses
A multifocal IOL can provide clear vision at all distances, considerably reducing or eliminating your dependence on prescription lenses after cataract surgery. Imagine waking up every day and seeing the world around you in clearer, more vivid detail without reaching for your eyeglasses.
With a multifocal IOL, this can be possible.
Excellent for Active Lifestyles
Contact lenses or glasses can hold you back, whether you’re hiking, travelling, working out, or camping. Glasses can constantly get smudged or break easily. A contact can pop out at any time, or you may experience frequent dryness or irritation.
A multifocal IOL eliminates the inconveniences of visual aids. You’ll be able to jump into the water, go to spin class or yoga, enjoy birdwatching, or play golf without having to worry or take extra precautions.
Cataract surgery with a multifocal IOL will not only help you regain your sight but also enable you to live an active lifestyle without glasses or contacts getting in the way. Are you interested in learning more about multifocal IOLs? Schedule your appointment at Simone Eye Center in Warren or Macomb Twp., MI, today to discover if you’re a suitable candidate!
