Intraocular Lens (IOL)

Understanding YOUR options when it comes time to have cataract surgery Multifocal IOL (presbyopic correcting lens)

Education Is A KEY factor in determining your visual outcome and happiness after cataract surgery. Because The Glaucoma Cataract Consultants cares deeply about the visual outcomes for our patients, we now offer the latest technology in multifocal lens implants. These lens types are also often referred to as Presbyopic Correcting Lenses. The Glaucoma Cataract Consultants is one of the first distinguished eye centers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania currently utilizing this exciting new technology. In order to better understand your options for lens implant procedures please read below. People with progressed cataracts often describe the sensation as looking through a cloudy window. A cataract certainly will make light from the sun or a lamp seem too bright causing eye discomfort. Colors may not appear as bright as they once did and you may think you have a focusing issue. Please click HERE for a more detailed explanation as to what a cataract is. Once you have an understanding of the surgery process you can begin to understand the importance of selecting a LENS.

Interpreting Cataract Surgery and Intraocular LENS options

Once it is determined that you have cataracts and that they must be removed your doctor will then work with you to decide which IOL is best for your visual needs. There are three basic types of IOLs, each designed for a specific corrective function. These types are monofocal, multifocal or accommodating. Please discuss these options directly with the eye doctors at The Glaucoma Cataract Consultants. We will present the option that best fits your visual needs. A few of the lens options are listed here! Because technology is constantly evolving within the ophthalmology and vision care fields new lenses may become readily available. Our staff or doctors will be more than happy to discuss technology and future options.

Monofocal

A Monofocal IOL is the most common type of intraocular lens used. It provides vision at a fixed distance. This is typically calculated for far vision but can be targeted for near. Most patients will opt for far vision and wear reading glasses for near work. Patients can choose the option of blended vision in which one eye is targeted for distance and the other eye is targeted for intermediate vision. Additionally, this lens can be used for monovision, in which one eye is targeted for distance and the other eye is targeted for near vision.

Multifocal

Multifocal intraocular lenses are specially designed to provide vision at multiple distances (far, intermediate and near) and can decrease a persons’ dependence on glasses. Some patients will still require part-time spectacles.

Accommodating

Accommodating intraocular lenses have flexibility in their focus. This lens is typically set for distance and will provide some limited intermediate or reading vision. These are designed to decrease spectacle dependence.

Toric

The Toric intraocular lens is specifically designed to correct for astigmatism (the irregular shape of the cornea). These are typically used to achieve best distance vision and will decrease dependence on spectacles. They can also be used for blended vision or monovision.