When a person develops a cataract, it’s like looking through a foggy window. It makes reading, driving a car, or even seeing difficult. The surgery is performed where doctors extract the cloudy lens in the eye and substitute it with an artificial one called an intraocular lens (IOL). There are many types of IOLs, each with its advantages. Let’s discuss more about these lenses.
Monofocal IOLs are among the most widely used IOL lens types. Offering a single focal point, these lenses provide sharp vision for one far distance. These conventional IOLs were first implanted in the human eye 30 years ago and are widely popular around the world today. They provide excellent distant vision but patients with nearsightedness would need high-power spectacles. They also have a lower risk of visual problems such as glare and halos, making them ideal for night driving.
As the name implies, multifocal lenses provide several focal points inside a single lens. It allows patients to see clearly at various distances, thereby removing the need for glasses, even for intermediate and near vision. There are two broad categories of multifocal IOLs: bifocal and trifocal IOLs. Bifocal IOLs provide sharp vision for both far and near distances. On the other hand, trifocal IOLs provide sharper vision for far, intermediate and near distances. These lenses correct presbyopia and offer an improved quality of life.
These types of intraocular lenses are the latest innovation that aims to provide consistent and flawless vision across several distances. Unlike multifocal, it doesn’t have a specific focal point. It reduces the chances of visual disruptions associated with multifocal lenses. These IOLs are also great at providing precise vision for intermediate tasks (reading restaurant menus or using a computer) and better night vision.
Light-adjustable IOLs are the most innovative development in the field of cataract removal surgery. It can be personalised and finessed after surgery to reform the lens, improving the patient’s vision as needed. With high levels of accuracy in fixing vision, light-adjustable lenses can potentially lead to exceptional results.
Toric IOLs are specially designed to address astigmatism or the cylindrical power in the glasses. These types of IOLs have a toric shape that allows them to function efficiently for the uneven curvature of the cornea in astigmatic eyes. It reduces the dependency on spectacles for distance vision. It improves contrast sensitivity, leading to clearer and sharper vision, particularly in low-light conditions.
Cataract surgery, when done with the correct type of intraocular lens, can remarkably improve vision and quality of life. The various types of IOLs today allow individuals with more options. At Laxmi Netralaya, we’re well-known for performing successful cataract surgery. So, visit us and get crystal clear vision!