Intraocular Lenses

When the lens of the eye is clouded by a cataract, monofocal or multifocal intraocular contact lenses can replace a damaged lens. A monofocal or multifocal lens implant is a stable, reliable options for improving vision.

Intraocular Lenses – Multifocal and Monofocal Lens Implant

Intraocular lenses - also called IOLs - come in two varieties: monofocal and multifocal intraocular lenses. IOLs are implantable lenses that replace the lens of the eye when it is removed during cataract surgery. Originally, IOLs were monofocal, or corrective of vision at one distance only, whether near, intermediate, or far. Since they correct vision at just one distance, glasses are still needed, especially if the patient suffers from presbyopia (or age-related farsightedness). Newer, multifocal intraocular lenses will correct vision at multiple ranges, without the use of glasses or regular contact lenses.

ReSTOR®

AcrySof® ReSTOR® 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. Learn more about the AcrySof® ReSTOR® intraocular lens.

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. Learn more about the ReZoom™ IOL.

Crystalens®

Crystalens® is the first intraocular lens for cataracts that also provides accommodation, the ability to adjust focus between near, far, and midrange vision. Crystalens® is designed to mimic the eye’s natural process of accommodation. Other monofocal IOLs are fixed and stationary within the eye. Learn more about Crystalens® IOLs.

TECNIS™

TECNIS™ intraocular lenses minimize glare and have been shown to allow significantly greater detail and contrast than traditional IOLs. TECNIS™ lenses have shown particular effectiveness in patients with reduced contrast sensitivity in low-light situations. Learn more about the TECNIS™ IOL.

Types of IOLs

If you are considering cataract surgery to replace the lens in your eye, you should discuss with your doctor which of the different types of IOL may work best for you. There are two main types of IOL to consider: monofocal and multifocal intraocular lenses.

A multifocal lens implant is designed for the correction of both near and far vision. Your brain must learn to select the visual information it needs to form an image of either near or distant objects, so multifocal lenses may require a period of adjustment. A person may adjust better to multifocal intraocular lenses if they are placed in both eyes. Learn more about the types of IOLs.

The IOL Procedure

The IOL procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, usually requiring just a few hours to complete. The eye(s) is treated with anesthetic to limit any discomfort. A tiny incision is made at the edge of the eye and the cataract is removed. The monofocal or multifocal lens implant is then inserted through the same tiny incision. Learn more about intraocular lens surgery.

Am I a Candidate?

Generally, to be a candidate for monofocal or multifocal intraocular lenses, a patient should have healthy eyes and a stable refraction. Patients must demonstrate at least six months of stable refraction prior to surgery. If you have noticed a blurring of your vision or other symptoms of cataracts, or if presbyopia has made reading small print a frustrating ordeal, you may be a good candidate for vision correction with intraocular lenses. Learn more about candidacy for intraocular lenses.

Additional IOL Information – FAQs

Multifocal intraocular lenses are now used throughout the world to help patients overcome the decline of vision generally associated with age. IOLs are made of a synthetic material and implanted in the eye to replace the eye's natural crystalline lens if a cataract has developed and caused the lens to become cloudy or the lens has grown inflexible with age and can no longer focus for near-vision tasks. Take a look at commonly asked intraocular lens questions.

Benefits of Intraocular Lenses

Millions of people around the world who have suffered vision loss due to cataracts or presbyopia are now enjoying the benefits of intraocular lenses. Intraocular lenses provide remarkable vision improvement; a multifocal lens implant can alleviate the effects of presbyopia and eliminate or greatly reduce the need for reading glasses or contact lenses. Learn more about the benefits of intraocular lenses.

Risks of Intraocular Lenses

Although complications are rare, there are certain risks associated with intraocular lens surgery. Your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough examination of your eyes and will research your medical history to determine any factor or factors that may increase your susceptibility to IOL risks. Statistics show complications occur in less than 5 percent of cases. Lean more about IOL risks.

How Do I Choose an IOL Surgeon?

The outcome of your intraocular lens surgery depends greatly on the skill and qualifications of the ophthalmologist you choose. DocShop’s online directory can help you locate a skilled IOL specialist in your area. Also learn more about the important factors you should consider when choosing an IOL surgeon.

Cost of Intraocular Lenses

The cost of a monofocal or multifocal intraocular lens is determined by several factors, including the surgeon you choose and the area of the country where the surgery is performed. Typically, the cost of a lens implant is $1,500 to $3,000 per eye. Learn more about the cost of a lens implant.

Find a Doctor through DocShop

If your vision has been impaired by cataracts and you are interested in monofocal or multifocal intraocular lenses, DocShop can help you find an ophthalmologist in your area. Find out how a monofocal or multifocal lens implant can correct the effects of cataracts or presbyopia.