Our Team in Tupelo, Mississippi, Explains What an IOL Is
An Intraocular lens or IOL, is an artificial lens that is implanted in the eye during cataract surgery. The lens is designed to replace the natural lens that has become cloudy due to cataracts.
The IOL is inserted through a small incision in the eye and positioned in the capsular bag, which is the thin, clear membrane that originally held the natural lens. Similar to prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, IOLs are available in a variety of focusing powers.
Patients experience significant improvement in their vision after this surgery, with many able to achieve excellent visual acuity without the need for glasses or contacts.
Different Types of IOLs
Monofocal IOL
Monofocal or standard IOLs are the most common type used in cataract surgery. They come in different prescriptions, but offer only one vision adjustment, correcting either nearsightedness or farsightedness. Standard aphakic monofocal IOLs are designed to provide clear vision and restore basic visual function. Aspheric monofocals, however, have a non-spherical shape that helps to reduce distortions and aberrations. It improves contrast sensitivity and vision and allows for fewer halos or glare, especially in low-light conditions. While monofocal IOLs do not correct all vision problems, they are a reliable and cost-effective option. They also have a low risk of complications and a high success rate. Nevertheless, patients frequently still require the use of glasses or contact lenses in order to see clearly after surgery. Brands of monofocal IOLs:
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Premium IOL
Premium IOLs are a category of intraocular lenses that provide advanced vision correction beyond what is possible with standard monofocal IOLs. They are designed to improve visual outcomes and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery. Unlike monofocal IOLs, premium IOLs correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness, benefiting presbyopic patients who need prescription eyeglasses for distance and reading. This often eliminates the need for multiple pairs of glasses altogether. They are typically more expensive but offer patients greater visual freedom and independence from glasses or contact lenses Types of premium IOLs:
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Multifocal Lenses
What are Multifocal IOLs?
Multifocal IOLs are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances, allowing patients to see both near and far objects without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Refractive multifocal lenses use different powers of refraction to focus light at multiple distances. Diffractive multifocal lenses separate light into different focal points, creating multiple focus zones for clear vision at different distances Multifocal IOLs provide improved visual function and independence for patients with presbyopia and are available in different designs and materials to suit the needs of the patient. |
Vivity® IOL
The Vivity IOL is a more advanced multifocal EDOF (extended depth of focus). It enables you to experience ongoing comprehensive vision without the disadvantages of other multifocal IOLs. The lens is made of a non-diffractive technology called X-WAVE™, which uses wavefront-shaping technology to correct distance vision while also reducing the occurrence of glare and halos. This technology is designed to mimic the natural shape of the cornea, allowing for clear vision at all distances without the loss of contrast sensitivity. The Vivity® IOL is a popular choice for cataract patients who want to achieve optimal visual outcomes without compromising on visual quality. This lens is also available in a toric version to correct astigmatism. |
Don't let cataracts impact your quality of life. Call or book an appointment to experience the benefits of our IOL service.
Using Multifocal and Monofocal IOLs Together
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In some cases, multifocal and monofocal IOLs are used together, known as a blended vision approach. The goal is to provide both good distance and near vision by implanting a multifocal IOL in one eye and a monofocal IOL in the other. An eye dominance test is performed and the near focal point is often focused on the non-dominant eye. Blended vision may be particularly beneficial for those with an active lifestyle or job that requires both near and distance vision. However, it is important for patients to understand that it can take time for the brain to adjust to the differences between the two eyes. Book an appointment with the team in Tupelo, Mississippi, to discuss the option of blending multifocal and monofocal IOLs. |
Trifocal IOLs
What are Trifocal IOLs?
Trifocal IOLs are a type of premium intraocular lens that provides clear vision at three distances: far, intermediate, and near. This is accomplished through the use of specialized lens technology that incorporates multiple focal points. Trifocal IOLs are designed to reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. The PanOptix® Trifocal Lens is one of these new options that offer three vision distances as opposed to one or two. |
PanOptix® IOL
The PanOptix® Trifocal Lens is a premium intraocular lens designed to reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. The lens allows for better vision over three primary areas. It utilizes advanced technology that allows for a smooth transition between distances, minimizing the potential for visual disturbances such as halos or glare. Adults who require their natural lens to be replaced can now have greater sight and independence with the PanOptix® Trifocal IOL. |
Accommodating Lenses
Light Adjustable Lenses (LAL)
Accommodative IOL
Accommodating IOLs are another type of premium intraocular lens that is designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances. These lenses are designed to move in response to the eye's natural focusing mechanisms, allowing patients to see clearly at both near and far distances Predominantly used to cure cataracts and presbyopia, this special type of IOL shifts and adjusts when your eye moves. Accommodating IOLs are particularly beneficial for patients with an active lifestyle as the need for glasses or contact lenses is eliminated or greatly reduced. |