Following the removal of a cataract from the retina, intraocular lenses (IOL) are implanted in place of the natural lens. Intraocular lenses vary by type and are prescribed based on eye condition. Consider the post-corrective eye surgery artificial lens options below.

Basic Types of Lens Replacements

The two most common IOLS are Anterior Chamber Lenses (ACIOL) and Posterior Chamber Lenses (PCIOL). Posterior Chamber Lenses are preferred by most, as they are placed over the residual posterior chamber in the location the natural lens occupied pre-surgery. Anterior Chamber Lenses differ in that they are placed over the top of the iris, as opposed to the physiological location of the natural lens. The insertion of these lenses typically only occurs when the posterior chamber is damaged or depleted.

Next Level Lens Correction

There have been many advances in cataract surgery and lens replacement in the last 30 years. The division of premium IOLS is quite expansive and can be tailored to specific vision conditions.

There are three categories of Premium lenses:

1. Monofocal – These lenses can only correct one range of vision, either near or far. The lens can be calibrated so that glasses are only needed to see near, or distant objects.
2. Multifocal – Unlike their monofocal counterpart, these lenses can restore vision in the near and distant ranges, eliminating the need for glasses. A few notable drawbacks to consider are glare and deficient contrast reactivity.
3. Toric – Eye power is shared between spherical and cylinder power. Monofocal and multifocal only adjust the spherical component, leaving the cylindrical component to be correct with prescription glasses. Toric lenses correct both cylinder and spherical eye power eliminating the need for glasses most of the time. This method is suggested for patients with astigmatism.

A Few Aspects To Consider

The lens replacement type to be implanted after cataract removal surgery should fit your lifestyle. Here are some general guidelines for lenses deemed adequate for involvement in certain activities:

• If your daily activities require you to use near vision, it is suggested to get monofocal IOL lenses
• For those that drive in the dark monofocal or EDOF lenses may not be the best option
• Individuals dealing with astigmatism tend to have the best success with toric IOLs
• Generally, it is not recommended for those with eye disease, including glaucoma and macular degeneration receive multifocal and EDOF lenses

For the best post-cataract removal outcome speak to an ophthalmologist to find the right artificial lenses.