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Advanced Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options for Cataracts

Advances in technology have made it possible to provide intraocular lens options that allow patients to see at one or multiple distances, as well as the ability to correct astigmatism.

Looking through dirty window

Solutions for Your Vision with Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options

Are you tired of looking at the world around you through a dirty window? Have you stopped doing the things you love because cataracts impair your vision? After cataract surgery, you can expect the cloudiness and blurriness to be reduced, leading to clearer vision. However, what if you could enhance the outcome and reduce your dependency on glasses or contact lenses?

In today’s modern world, people stay updated with technology for their phones, computers, cameras, and so much more. Why wouldn’t you want to do the same regarding your eyesight and seeing clearly?

Advanced technology IOLs function much like your glasses or contact lenses. When implanted into the eye, these IOLs provide focusing power that your natural lens does not have, allowing you to enjoy clear vision.

Diagram of Cataract Lens

Monofocal (Basic Lens)

A monofocal intraocular lens is the standard lens used in cataract surgery and is typically covered by insurance. It offers clear vision at one fixed distance—usually for seeing far away—so you’ll likely still need glasses for reading or using a computer.

If you have astigmatism, this lens won’t correct it, which means you may still need glasses for all ranges of vision. However, for patients with otherwise healthy eyes, a monofocal lens can provide excellent clarity at the distance chosen in consultation with your doctor, based on your lifestyle needs.

Toric Lens (Astigmatism-Correcting Option)

A toric lens is designed for people with moderate to high astigmatism and provides sharp distance vision by correcting the irregular shape of the cornea. It offers a more natural visual experience than a standard lens and can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for distance glasses after cataract surgery.

While it won’t correct presbyopia (age-related near vision loss), reading or computer glasses may still be needed. For patients with astigmatism who want to enjoy clearer distance vision without relying on glasses, the toric lens is a strong, advanced option to consider.

Multifocal Lens (Trifocal or Extended Focus)

Multifocal lenses are premium options that provide a full range of vision—near, intermediate, and distance—helping reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses after cataract surgery. These advanced lenses are ideal for people who want more visual freedom for daily tasks like reading, using a computer, or driving.

Designed for an active lifestyle, multifocal IOLs make transitions between distances feel more natural. Many patients enjoy the convenience of seeing clearly whether they’re reading a book, checking a phone, or watching a sunset—without reaching for glasses. While some may still need glasses for very small print, these lenses offer a high level of independence from corrective eyewear. Toric versions are also available for patients with astigmatism, combining astigmatism correction with multi-distance clarity.

Light Adjustable Lens

The Light Adjustable Lens stands as the only adjustable intraocular lens (IOL) available, providing the opportunity for vision optimization following lens implantation and recovery. The customizable LAL option provides the highest degree of precision, tailored to your specific vision needs, ensuring achievable clarity and focus. The LAL lens can be adjusted multiple times AFTER your surgery or until your prescription is right for you. If you and your doctor decide that the LAL is right for you, you will undergo standard cataract surgery, followed by additional light treatments to achieve your desired vision results.

Learn more about LAL

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