Important Announcement: We've partnered with ReFocus Eye Health to best focus on providing the best patient care possible. Of course, our doctors and staff will remain the same but our name, logo, and website will be updated as we integrate with the ReFocus family of eye clinics. This will not affect your appointments or your patient experience in the least. 

Important Annoucement: Our Blue Bell clinic is now closed. All patients from that office will be seen at our state-of-the-art North Wales location, where they can expect the same caliber of exceptional eye care and patient experience. This location is only 6 miles away and has ample parking.

Choosing the Right IOL for Your Cataract Surgery

Deciding to undergo cataract surgery is a significant decision. If you are considering this treatment, you will also need to determine which type of intraocular lens (IOL) is right for you. At Ophthalmology Physicians and Surgeons in Philadelphia, PAwe offer monofocal and premium IOLs, which can enhance your vision at multiple distances following your cataract surgery. Our team can provide all the information you need to know about choosing the right IOL for your unique needs.

 

Initial Considerations

Determining the right IOL for you will depend on a number of factors, including your medical history, your eye health, your vision prescription, and the amount of astigmatism present. During a consultation with one of our doctors, we can help narrow down your choices and make recommendations based on your specific needs.

What Type of Vision Do You Prefer?

IOLs can be categorized by the type of focus they provide. Some only provide improved vision up close, while others focus better at a distance. The first thing to determine is what kind of vision you prefer after your cataract surgery. Do you want improved distance vision while wearing glasses for up-close tasks? Perhaps you prefer improved near vision and are okay with wearing glasses for long-distance focusing. Some IOLs meet both requirements, minimizing the need for corrective eyewear.

Many of our patients choose long-distance IOLs and still wear reading glasses when necessary. However, what works best for you will depend on your own unique treatment goals and lifestyle.

What about Cost?

We understand that cost is always a factor when considering any medical procedure. If you have insurance, it is important to speak to your provider before choosing an IOL, as not all lenses are covered by insurance. Many plans only cover monofocal IOLs, which offer the bare minimum in vision correction. If cost is a significant factor in your treatment, ask yourself if you are willing to compromise your vision and your comfort for a more affordable option.  As always, our team is available to help you determine an option that will fit your needs and budget.

Types of IOLs: An Overview

There are several types of IOLs offered at our practice.

Monofocal IOLs

As the first intraocular lens, the monofocal offers focus at only one distance: near, intermediate, or distant. These are still used quite successfully, as many patients choose to have monofocal IOLs placed for distance vision, and wear glasses to compensate for near vision. In some cases, patients may choose to place a near vision lens in one eye, and a distant vision lens in the other. While this is successful for some, many patients have difficulty adjusting to the difference.

Multifocal IOLs

Varying vision settings in different areas of the lenses make multifocal IOLs an excellent option for patients wanting to improve both near and distant vision. Oftentimes, patients who choose this option can reduce or eliminate their need for corrective eyewear.

Toric IOLs

Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is shaped irregularly. If this is an issue for you, toric IOLs are an outstanding option. These lenses can help patients see either up close or far away, and correct refractive errors in the process.

Symfony IOLs

This premium IOL provides both near and far distance correction while maintaining fluid vision as focus changes. This revolutionary option is available in toric as well, to meet the needs of patients with astigmatism.

Learn More about IOLs

Choosing the right IOL can be challenging. To determine which lens is right for you, schedule a consultation at our practice

Author
Ophthalmology Physicians & Surgeons, PC

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