Cataracts and IOLs
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside of the eye. This typically occurs slowly, though in some cases can change rapidly for a variety of reasons. Over time, cataracts can have a dramatic impact on vision and worsen overtime. However, because the changes often develop slowly you may not fully realize the impact of cataracts until they are removed.
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Why IOLs?
Maybe you’ve noticed your vision becoming blurry. Reading is harder. Night driving is difficult. You know your cataracts will have to be dealt with eventually, but… you’ve been putting it off.
Or maybe your eyesight is becoming a problem. You struggle to make coffee without your glasses. You can’t see what’s happening in the distance. Your glasses no longer seem to be working, and honestly, it’s a hassle.
The question is, what are you missing out on? What do you avoid doing because of your eyesight issues?
And how might your life be easier, more relaxing, and happier if you could simply see better?
It doesn’t have to be difficult to make the switch. And we bet that once you see the world with your new, upgraded vision, you’ll wish that you took the leap earlier.
Lens implant – or IOL – surgery is a routine surgical procedure that can dramatically improve your eyesight.
Depending on the kind of lens you choose, it will correct cataracts, plus astigmatism, and/or near- and far-sightedness.
It’s also a safe, routine procedure that requires very little downtime. It takes only a few minutes, and patients are often surprised by how easy the recovery is.
Which Kind of Lens Implant Is Right for Me?
Monofocal IOLs are a traditional form of lens correction, covered by most insurance plans. They allow you to see clearly up close or at a distance – but not both. Most patients who get monofocal IOLs choose to correct their distance vision, and then keep using reading glasses for computer and close-up work.
Monovision is where you have a monofocal IOL inserted into each eye, with one adjusted for distance vision, and the other adjusted for near vision. The brain adapts and synthesizes the information from both eyes to provide good vision for intermediate distances, which may also reduce the need for reading glasses. Ask your doctor if this is a good option for you. Not everyone is a candidate for monovision.
Toric Astigmatism IOLs are a premium form of lens correction. They take advantage of new technologies to provide cataract and astigmatism correction in a single procedure. Many patients who receive toric IOLs only need reading glasses after surgery, and patients generally report a high level of postoperative satisfaction.
Multifocal IOLs are another premium form of lens correction. They use new technology to correct the full range of vision, from up close to far away. Patients who choose multifocal IOLs also report strong levels of satisfaction, as a high percentage of them decrease their dependency on glasses.
Multifocal Toric IOLs are a further premium form of lens correction. They can correct cataracts, astigmatism, and near-and far-sightedness in one procedure. This type of lens has a strong likelihood of enabling you to live a lifestyle that’s less spectacle-dependent.
Possible Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with surgery. Every situation is unique, and you should discuss the options available to you with your surgeon to determine which would be the best choice for your situation. Even after the doctor has answered all your questions, you should take some time to think everything over before committing.
IOL surgery has the potential to transform your vision. It can also empower you to live your life without relying so heavily on glasses or contact lenses.
If you’re interested in having this kind of surgery and want to discuss your options with one of our highly qualified ophthalmologists, call Chang Eye Group.