Intraocular Lens Implant Types

An intraocular lens (IOL) implant is used to correct vision clouded by a cataract or the age-related condition, presbyopia. During intraocular lens surgery, the eye’s natural lens is replaced by an intraocular lens implant. A monofocal intraocular lens can be used to give clear point focus either at a distance or close up, but you can only choose one focal point. Multifocal IOLs have by and large replaced their monofocal counterparts, as they allow correction of vision at all distances. To learn about the different types of multifocal IOLs, read the sections below.

Types of Multifocal IOLs

Multifocal IOLs are generally preferred over the traditional monofocal intraocular lens implants due to their ability to correct vision at all distances. While the monofocal intraocular lens implant only corrects problems with distance vision, multifocal IOLs are able to correct for varying distances. The three main types of multifocal IOLs include refractive IOLs, apodized diffractive IOLs, and accommodative IOLs.

Multifocal Refractive IOLs

Multifocal refractive IOLs, such as the ReZoom™ intraocular lens, are designed with several optical zones on the intraocular lens. These zones provide various focal points, allowing for an improvement in distance, intermediate, and near vision.

Apodized Diffractive Multifocal IOL

The Acrysof® ReSTOR® intraocular lens is an apodized diffractive multifocal IOL. This type of IOL has gradual diffractive steps on the intraocular lens implant that create a smooth transition between focal points. The IOL also bends incoming light to the multiple focal points to increase vision in various lighting situations.

Accommodative IOL

One of the newer types of IOL, the first FDA approved accommodative IOL is the crystalens™ intraocular lens. An accommodative intraocular lens implant only has one focal point, but it acts as if it is a multifocal IOL. The IOL was designed with a hinge similar to the mechanics of the eye’s natural lens. Using the eye’s muscles, the single focal point of an accommodative intraocular lens can shift to bring objects at varying distances into focus.

Locate an Ophthalmologist for More Information

DocShop provides you with up-to-date information regarding IOL procedures, but you should still discuss your options with a qualified ophthalmologist. After administering a comprehensive examination, your eye surgeon can review the types of multifocal IOLs and better assist you with your intraocular lens implant choice. Find an ophthalmologist in your area to discuss intraocular lens surgery today.