Cataracts are a thickening or clouding of the natural lens in your eye, so that lens must be removed to get rid of the cataract. Once the lens is removed, a new artificial lens implant called an IOL (Intraocular Lens) will be put in to replace it. You have many options when it comes to choosing the right IOL for you. Fortunately, there are a variety of lens implant options available to fit with your lifestyle and level of correction needed. Our ophthalmologists can recommend the best type for your unique preferences and conditions.
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Dr. Nguyen and Layla were great! Dr. Nguyen explained all of my options in great detail and left me comfortable with my decision and question free. They called me several times to make sure that I didn’t have any questions both before and after the surgery. They even called the weekend before my surgery. That’s dedication! I really felt like they created a doctor/patient relationship that was based on comfort and trust. My new eyes are wonderful! My only regret is that I waited so long. Thanks for the marvelous experience!
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LENS IMPLANT OPTIONS
Monofocal Lens
A monofocal lens, also called a “standard” IOL, gives you clear uncorrected vision at one distance. You can choose whether you would like your lens to see well far or near, then you will need glasses in order to see well at all distances. This lens does also not correct for any natural astigmatism you may have.
Toric Lens
A toric lens is a special type of monofocal lens that is able to correct for astigmatism. Just like a standard IOL, you will still choose whether you would like the lens to see well far or near. A toric lens is a good choice for people who have high astigmatism.
Multifocal Lens
A multifocal lens mimics the ability of the natural lens in your eye to see both far and near. This means that it can be a good option for people who do not like wearing glasses.
Light Adjustable Lens (LAL)
A light adjustable lens is a newer type of lens that allows your doctor to adjust the prescription in the lens once it is in your eye without the need for a second surgery. This lens option is very good for people who have a thicker cataract, have had laser vision correction like LASIK in the past, or simply want the clearest possible vision without glasses after surgery.
If you are interested in cataract surgery, be sure to contact Anh Nguyen Ophthalmology today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lens implants safe?
Yes, the technology surrounding implanting intraocular lenses (IOLs) has been studied and proven over many years, although some types of IOLs are newer than others.
Can a lens implant be replaced?
Yes, IOLs can be removed and replaced if not performing or correcting a persons vision optimally, although this is rarely necessary due to the number and precision of calculations made prior to implanting the lens.
Does lens replacement improve vision?
Yes, the goal of lens replacement surgery is to provide perfect to near-perfect vision for patients undergoing the procedure.
Does lens replacement surgery hurt?
No, with numbing eye drops and the lack of nerves in the lens and cornea, lens replacement surgery does not result in pain.
How do lens implants work?
Lens implants are specially made synthetic lenses that mimic the naturally occurring lens in your eye but that are manufactured to correct misshapen lenses or corneas to help people see clearly at both near and far distances.
How long do lens implants last?
Unless you experience a sudden change or unfavorable vision correction with your IOL device, they should not need to be replaced at all during your life.
How long does it take for your vision to stabilize after cataract surgery with lens implant?
It can take up to a few days to recover, but your ophthalmologist will let you know exactly how to care for your treated eye(s) following IOL implantation.
How long does it take to adjust to multifocal lens implants?
It can take several months to become fully accustomed to your IOL, although every patient heals and adapts at a different rate.
Is lens replacement surgery permanent?
Typically, yes, lens replacement surgery is supposed to be permanent. However, if you do not have ideal vision results the IOL can be removed and replaced with a different one.
What happens if the lens moves after cataract surgery?
In the extremely rare event that an IOL moves following implantation, an ophthalmologist will need to replace it with another lens.
