Faqs About Intraocular Lenses

During a cataract surgery, your eye doctor will remove the natural lens from your eye and replace it with an intraocular lens. This medical device is an essential component needed for the recovery of your sight following surgery. If your doctor has recommended cataract surgery, here is what you need to know. 

What Does an Intraocular Lens Do?

In previous years, cataract surgery was followed by the need for contacts or thick eyeglasses to correct poor vision that resulted from the removal of the natural lens. Technological advances have led to the development of the intraocular lens. 

The lens works by providing the focusing power that is needed for you to see. It is implanted into the eye, and in many cases, there is no additional need to wear prescription glasses or contacts. 

Are There Different Types?

Intraocular lens come in a variety of types, including aspheric. Which lens your eye doctor recommends depends on various factors, including your lifestyle and visual needs. 

A basic, or traditional, intraocular lens has a spherical shape. However, your eye's natural lens has an aspheric shape. As a result, if you have the traditional intraocular lens implanted, it will not provide you with the same visual power as the natural lens. By contrast, an aspheric lens mimics your natural lens shape and provides the best power possible. 

If you have astigmatism, the removal of the cataract does not improve it. However, the addition of a toric intraocular lens can. The lens is specially designed with differing powers along the lens, which can properly correct your astigmatism.

A multifocal intraocular lens is useful if you have previously relied on reading glasses. The lens works like a magnifier so objects are visually enhanced without them becoming distorted. 

Which One is Right for You?

The eye doctor will ultimately decide which intraocular lens is right for your eye. Your lifestyle plays a major part in his or her determination. For instance, a multimodal lens may not only be best for people who need reading glasses, but also those who spend a great amount of time on the computer. 

In some instances, premium versions of the lenses might be needed because they offer even more clarity. Premium lenses are more expensive and might not be covered by your health insurance. If not, it is possible that you will have to pay for them yourself. 

An eye doctor, such as Midwest Eye Care PC, can help with determining the lens needed and provide additional information on the procedure. 


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