Laser Eye Surgery - ReSTOR® Intraocular Lenses
Austin, Texas

The ReSTOR® Intraocular Lens (IOL) is a multifocal artificial lens used to treat cataracts and presbyopia. It can give you clear vision at near and far distances and greatly reduce your need for glasses. In an outpatient procedure the eye’s natural lens is removed and the ReSTOR IOL is inserted to replace it.

This IOL has a convex surface on both sides and an arm on each side called a haptic to hold it in place after it has been inserted. It comes in a folded form but unfolds inside the eye’s lens pocket upon insertion. It is made by Alcon of a proprietary substance called AcrySof®.

Apodized Diffractive Technology

ReSTOR IOLs use a proprietary technology called “apodized diffractive technology.” Diffraction is the scattering of light, and apodization is the smoothing of any discontinuities. These terms come from the discipline of optics which is highly mathematical.

Basically, ReSTOR IOLs have concentric steps in their design, each of which refracts (bends) light differently. As light enters the eye, it passes through the cornea (clear front covering of the eye) and then through the IOL (substituting for the removed natural lens). The IOL sends light to different focal points on the retina according to the distance it came from and the lighting conditions at the time.

The outside edge of the IOL is designed to focus light clearly for distance vision. The series of steps rises a little higher with each step towards the IOL’s center.

This is not new technology as it has been used for decades in various optical devices such as stage lights, telescopes, lighthouses and microscopes. The FDA approved its use in the ReSTOR IOL in 2005.

Most people who have ReSTOR IOLs implanted (about 80%) find that they no longer need any glasses. Those who do still need them have milder prescriptions.

Please see our page on ReZoom™to read more about other types of IOLs.

If you would like to learn more about laser eye surgery including ReSTOR IOL, and whether it might be a good option for you, please contact our office to schedule a complimentary consultation.