Intraocular Lenses
When a cloudy cataract is removed it is replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). Smaller than a dime in diameter, IOL's are made from thin acrylic and should last your lifetime. We calculate your particular IOL strength to help you see clearly. Many patients have much less reliance on distance glasses thanks to their IOL's.
​
There are two classes of IOL's to think about if you are contemplating surgery. The standard IOL is a single focus implant that can improve your focus for distance vision. Note that they do not correct for astigmatism nor do they correct for bifocals. Standard IOL's provide excellent vision but patients will require use of reading glasses and possibly distance ones too. Standard IOL's are included with all insurance plans.
​
A second class of IOL's are are known as Advanced IOL's. Their enhanced designs can correct for corneal astigmatism and correct various degrees of close up reading power to allow you to see distance and near vision without relying on glasses. Premium IOL's one time costs are not covered by insurance.
Standard IOL
1.
Corrects for general distance correction but not astigmatism
2.
Does not correct for intermediate or near vision (computer and reading)
3.
Reading or bifocal type glesses are required after surgery
4
Covered by standard insurance with surgery
1.
Corrects for almost all refractions, including those with astigmatism
2.
Will allow for various levels of intermediate and reading without glasses
3.
Enhances natural vision with greater depth of field than standard IOL
4
IOL's are typically not covered by insurance