Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are tiny, precision-engineered implants that can help transform one’s vision. Primarily utilized during cataract surgery to replace the eye’s clouded lens, intraocular lenses are also employed in refractive surgeries to correct common vision issues such as myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness). The magic of intraocular lenses lies in their ability to provide clear, focused vision, often reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses. Available in various designs, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric, each type of intraocular lens caters to different visual needs, adapting to the unique requirements of each patient.
At Prestera Eye Medical Group, Dr. Tory Prestera and Dr. Howard Guan can improve the quality of vision for many patients with the help of intraocular lenses. This approach can address visual impairments based on a patient’s individual needs and optical goals, making this technological advancement a game changer in the journey toward clearer sight.
What Are IOLs?
Intraocular lenses, also referred to as IOLs, are artificial lenses surgically implanted in the eye to replace the eye’s natural lens when it has become clouded by cataracts. These lenses can also be used for correcting vision in situations where strong glasses or contact lenses are not sufficient, as well as for individuals who simply want to reduce their reliance on corrective eyewear. The procedure to implant an IOL involves removing the natural lens and replacing it with the lens implant, thereby restoring or improving vision. IOLs have focusing powers tailored to meet individual needs, offering many patients enhanced quality of life through better eyesight.
What Are the Different Types of IOLs?
At Prestera Eye Medical Group, we offer a variety of IOL types that can significantly improve an individual’s vision. Below, we’ve highlighted the different options available for our patients.
Multifocal IOLs
A multifocal IOL is a very popular option. This corrective approach often allows patients to forgo or reduce the need for glasses or contacts through its ability to focus on numerous distances, including near, intermediate, and far. Additionally, multifocal IOLs can address the age-related condition called presbyopia, which makes close-up activities, including looking at a phone screen or reading, more difficult.
Toric IOLs
Patients with astigmatism may benefit more from toric IOLs. Astigmatism is a common eye condition characterized by a cornea or natural lens that is more oval in shape rather than spherical. This irregularity can prevent light from focusing properly on the retina, ultimately producing blurred or distorted vision that can lead to difficulties in seeing fine details both at a distance and up close. Toric IOLs can help reduce blurriness and distorted vision at multiple distances caused by that irregular curvature.
Monofocal IOLs
As opposed to multifocal and toric lenses, the monofocal choice corrects a single focus, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. A patient with monofocal lenses may still require glasses or contacts, depending on the current state of their vision.
How Much Do IOLs Cost?
The cost of IOLs can vary from patient to patient. Standard monofocal lenses, which provide clear vision at one distance, typically are the least expensive option and may even be covered by insurance when used for cataract surgery. More advanced IOLs such as multifocal and toric lenses, which offer correction for multiple distances and astigmatism respectively, are usually more expensive and may not be fully covered by insurance. However, the cost of IOLs may be offset by the potential long-term savings, as they can help reduce or eliminate the need for prescription glasses or contacts. This investment not only enhances visual acuity but can also decrease ongoing expenses related to eye wear. Our practice will be happy to talk more with you about the total cost of IOL procedures and answer your questions about the many convenient methods of payment we accept.
With thorough and precise care along with the use of advanced vision treatment options such as IOLs, Dr. Prestera and Dr. Guan can efficiently address the optical needs of our diverse patient community, including the numerous Hispanic families we regularly serve. To learn more about intraocular lens options or to schedule a consultation, contact Prestera Eye Medical Group today.