Choosing the Right Intraocular Lens (IOL) for Cataract Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide
Cataract surgery is currently the only way of restoring clear vision when you develop a cataract. This is done by replacing the clouded natural lens of the eye with an artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). At Shroff Eye Centre, we understand that patients face a lot of confusion when trying to understand the different types of lenses. Everyone wants to find “the best lens for cataract surgery”.
With various types of lenses available, it’s essential to understand your options so you can make an informed choice based on your lifestyle and vision needs.
This blog will explain the different types of IOLs, their benefits, and what you should consider when deciding a lens for your cataract surgery.
What Are Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)?
An intraocular lens (IOL) is an artificial lens implanted during cataract surgery to replace your eye’s lens which has become white due to a cataract. The goal is to restore clear vision by allowing light to enter and focus on your retina. A lens which gives your friend or cousin good vision may not always suit your visual needs. Read on to understand this in detail.
Types of Intraocular Lenses
There are several types of IOLs designed to meet different vision needs. The main types include:
1. Monofocal Lenses
- Monofocal IOLs provide clear vision at a single distance, usually set for distance vision.
- Glasses needed? Yes, patients will typically need glasses for near vision tasks such as reading or using a cellphone.
- Who should choose them? These lenses are ideal if you mostly need clear vision for distance ie when out and about and don’t mind using glasses for reading or watching TV.
- Benefits: They provide sharp, most clear vision at the chosen distance with minimal side effects.
2. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) Lenses
- These are a newer design of IOL which provide excellent distance vision while also improving mid-range vision.
- Benefits: EDOF lenses make it easier to see objects like car dashboards or computer screens or TV clearly without glasses.
- Glasses needed? Some patients may still need glasses for near tasks such as reading small print or seeing their cell phone.
- Who should choose them? Ideal for people who want enhanced visual range but are comfortable wearing glasses occasionally.
3. Multifocal (Trifocal) Lenses
- Trifocal IOLs are designed to provide vision correction at multiple distances — near, intermediate, and far (which is Trifocal). Older multifocal lenses are rarely used now and used to provide near and distance vision.
- Glasses needed? Most people would not need glasses but they might still be necessary for very fine print or low-light conditions.
- Who should choose them? Perfect for individuals who want the freedom from glasses for most activities.
- SIde effects: Although a little less with the newer trifocals, People do complain of side effects like glare and halos due to inherent design of the lens. The glare and halos are more pronounced at night or around lights.
4. Toric Lenses
- Toric IOLs are designed to correct astigmatism, a condition caused by an irregularly shaped cornea that distorts vision.
- All lenses- whether monofocal, multifocal or EDOF- can be ordered as a toric lens to improve astigmatism.
- How they help: By compensating for the cylindrical power in the eye, Toric lenses allow light to focus more precisely on the retina.
How to Choose the Right IOL for You
- Choosing the best IOL depends on your visual needs, lifestyle, and eye measurements. There is no single “best” IOL which suits everyone- please remember what is best for you may not be best for your friends eyes.
- At Shroff Eye Centre, we take precise measurements during our comprehensive eye exam and cataract workup to recommend the lens which would be best for your eyes.
Potential Considerations and Side Effects
- Some patients with multifocal lenses may experience glare or halos around lights at night, especially when driving.
- Monofocal lenses provide clear vision at one distance only, so near vision glasses are almost always needed.
- Proper pre-surgery measurements are crucial to ensure the best fit and optimal vision outcomes.
- Irrespective of lens chosen, all post cataract surgery precautions must be followed carefully to achieve the best outcomes.
What is the cataract surgery lens cost?
The cost of the lens varies depending on the type of lens. To know more, call 9910956780.
Does cataract get covered under cashless/ Insurance?
This depends on your policy or package – please call 9910956780 to know more..
Choosing your Cataract surgeon in Delhi NCR
Selecting an experienced cataract surgeon along with the correct intraocular lens (IOL) is a vital step in cataract surgery that directly impacts your vision quality after the procedure. Whether you choose a monofocal, EDOF or trifocal lens, understanding your options helps you set realistic expectations and enjoy the best possible results.
If you’re considering cataract surgery in Delhi NCR, call us Today! Our cataract surgery experts at Shroff Eye Centre are here to help you choose the lens that will help you see the World clearly.
Know our cataract team here
Why Choose Shroff Eye Centre for Your Cataract Surgery and IOL Selection?
- Experience: At Shroff Eye Centre, we were one of the first to use IOLs in North India and have decades of experience in cataract surgery. Our experienced cataract surgeons will also help you select the ideal IOL, ensuring that your vision needs and lifestyle preferences are met.
- Advanced care: We possess all the latest technology in cataract surgery- including femto laser cataract surgery- delivering personalised eye care.
- Team approach: We operate as a team- which means we regularly treat complicated cataract cases requiring retina care or glaucoma or cornea intervention under one roof.
- Ethics & Empathy: We choose what is best for your eyes, placing ethics above all. Our whole team is highly empathetic and there to make your hospital visit as smooth as possible.
- Post-op care: We also insist you observe all post-op precautions and come see our doctors for follow-ups to make sure the healing is progressing well.
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