Understanding the Different Types of Intraocular Lens Implants

Eye surgery is not a subject that should be broached lightly.  Selecting the best procedure to treat your eye condition(s) as well as choosing a surgeon who is experienced with your particular treatment method can be difficult.  Through Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons’ practice experience, we’ve found that educating our patients about all of their eye surgery options is one of the best ways of ensuring maximum satisfaction and results. Understanding the Different Types of Intraocular Lens Implants

For many patients with cataracts and those who’ve developed presbyopia where the natural lens within the eye becomes less flexible and loses the ability to focus, intraocular lens implant surgery (IOL) is frequently needed to restore normalized vision.  Through the years, eye surgery has become more precise and can now be tailored to your individual needs.  Depending on your focusing issues and the presence of cataracts, eye surgery using monofocal, toric, multifocal or premium IOL implants may be recommended.

Monofocal IOLs

The first FDA-approved IOL technology was introduced in 1981. Before that time, patients relied on high-strength glasses and contact lenses to see clearly after cataract removal surgery.  Traditional monofocal IOLs were developed to correct vision at one distance (near or far) after a cataract-affected lens was removed.   While useful for restoring vision at one predetermined length, glasses or contacts will still likely be needed by monofocal IOL patients for up-close tasks such as viewing a computer or reading at arm’s length after surgery.

Multifocal IOLs

For those patients that desire freedom from glasses or contacts after cataract and IOL surgery, multifocal or accommodating lenses may be recommended.  Also known as lifestyle lenses, the multifocal IOL technology Dr. Segal uses such as Alcon’s ReSTOR® lenses employ refractive technology to make it easier to focus between close and far distances.

Premium Lenses

Technology has come a very long way since the first lens implants were developed in the early 80’s.  For those patients who also wish to correct presbyopia (nearvision without glasses) in addition to clouded lenses from cataracts, premium lenses are now FDA-approved for adult patients.  Toric lenses are especially useful to correct astigmatism during IOL surgery.  Like multifocal IOLs, premium lenses also greatly minimize the need for glasses or contacts after IOL surgery allowing for more freedom of activity.

Dr. William Segal will approach your consultation about IOL surgery just like he would his own family:  honestly and with care. During your pre-surgery consultation, Dr. Segal will perform an eye exam to evaluate the condition(s) contributing to your clouded vision and recommend the best lens replacement method for your needs.  Cost and insurance coverage for intraocular lens implant surgery depends on the type of lens agreed upon by you and Dr. Segal as well as the restrictions of your individual insurance provider.

To learn more about the eye surgery options at Georgia Eye Physicians and Surgeons, P.C. contact our office.  You can also connect with us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest IOL technology news.