Monofocal & Multifocal Intraocular Lenses
Austin, Texas

Types of Intraocular Lenses

Intraocular Lenses – also referred to as IOLs – come in two varieties:  Monofocal and Multifocal Intraocular Lenses.  IOLs are lenses used to replace the natural lens of the eye when it becomes cloudy and yellowed by a cataract.  The IOL is implanted when the natural lens of the eye is removed during cataract surgery.  Originally, there was only one kind of lens – the monofocal lens, or corrective of vision at one distance only.  Since these lenses correct vision at just one distance, glasses are still needed, especially if the patient suffers from presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).  Newer, Multifocal Intraocular Lenses are now available which correct vision at multiple ranges without the use of contact lenses or glasses.

Monofocal Intraocular Lens

The original Intraocular Lens – also referred to as IOL - is originally designed to provide clear distance vision.  This means you will able to see objects far away.  However, you will most likely still need glasses for reading, computer activity, and any type of “close” detailed work.  Monofocal IOLs have been the standard implant after a cataract is removed.  Millions of monofocal IOLs have been successfully implanted providing cataract patients with clear distance vision. 

Multifocal Intraocular Lens

The Multifocal Intraocular Lens is a newer lens – also referred to as a Premium IOL - designed to replace cataracts and correct presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).  This unique implantable lens is proven to provide excellent vision at all distances…near, intermediate, and far.  However, recent innovations have led to the development of a variety of Multifocal IOL (P-IOL) designs, each with their own unique features and advancements.  These lenses have helped people to gain independence from glasses for the first time.

ReSTOR

Restore multifocal intraocular lenses are uniquely designed to improve vision at all distances, giving cataract patients the opportunity to experience life without glasses.  ReSTOR is modeled after microscope and telescope technology and focuses at both near and far distances, decreasing your dependency on glasses.

ReZoom

The ReZoom intraocular lens is a next-generation refractive multifocal lens implant that provides hyperopic cataract patients with greater independence from glasses than monofocal IOLs. 

Crystalens

Crystalens was the first intraocular lens for cataracts that also provided accommodation, the ability to adjust focus between near, far, and midrange vision.  Crystalens mimics the eye’s natural process of accommodation.  Other monofocal IOLs are fixed and stationary within the eye.

Tecnis Multifocal Intraocular Lens

Tecnis IOLs minimize glare and have been shown to allow significantly greater detail and contrast to traditional IOLs.  Tecnis lenses have shown particular effectiveness in patients with reduced contrast sensitivity in low-light situations.  This unique implantable lens is proven to provide excellent vision at all distances, under all lighting conditions – day and night.

The IOL Procedure

The procedure takes only a few hours and is usually done on an out patient basis.  Anesthetic eye drops are used to limit any discomfort.  A tiny incision is made on the edge of the eye to remove the cataract.  The new lens (mono or multifocal) is then inserted through the same incision.  Speak to our Refractive Coordinator Theresa Bischoff for more information on this procedure: 512-443-9715.

Are You A Candidate?

To be a candidate for intraocular lens exchange, a patient should have healthy eyes and a stable refraction.  If you have noticed a blurring of your vision or other symptoms of cataracts, or if presbyopia has made reading small print a frustrating experience, you may be a good candidate for vision correction with intraocular lenses.  Speak to our Refractive Coordinator Theresa Bischoff for more information or to schedule a Free Consultation to see if you are a candidate for Intraocular Lenses: 512-443-9715.

Benefits of Intraocular Lenses

Millions of people around the world have suffered vision loss due to presbyopia and cataracts.  Intraocular lenses have provided remarkable vision improvements.  A multifocal lens implant can alleviate the effects of presbyopia and eliminate or significantly reduce the need for reading glasses.  Speak to our Refractive Coordinator Theresa Bischoff for more information about IOLs: 512-443-9715.

Risks of Intraocular Lenses

There are some risks associated with intraocular lens surgery.  Although risks are rare, your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough exam of your eyes.  A medical history will determine any factors that may increase your susceptibility to IOL risks.  To learn more about IOLs and the risks and benefits please call our office to speak with our Refractive Coordinator, Theresa Bischoff 512-443-9715.

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