At Southwestern Eye Center, we help you compare intraocular lens options based on your eye health, astigmatism, daily activities, vision priorities, and budget.
During cataract surgery, the surgeon removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens, or IOL. The IOL stays inside your eye and takes over the natural lens’s job of focusing light. Before surgery, detailed measurements are taken to help your surgeon select the lens power and type that may best support your vision. Different IOLs are designed to accomplish different goals.
The Light Adjustable Lens™ (LAL) is an intraocular lens that can be fine-tuned after cataract surgery. This lens significantly decreases the likelihood of needing glasses after the procedure.
Unlike most intraocular lenses (IOLs), which have their power determined before surgery and cannot be altered afterward, the Light Adjustable Lens is unique. It allows for controlled light treatments to make small adjustments to the lens once your eye has healed. The FDA has approved this system as the first cataract lens that can have its power adjusted post-surgery.
A toric IOL has astigmatism correction built into the lens. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea does not focus light evenly, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Toric lenses are commonly designed to provide focus at one main distance while reducing the effect of corneal astigmatism. Many patients choose a distance target and use reading glasses for close work.
Best suited for: Patients with corneal astigmatism who want stronger distance focus with less reliance on distance glasses.
An extended depth-of-field (EDOF) lens is designed to provide a range of focal points rather than a single focal point. EDOF lenses generally place the greatest emphasis on distance and intermediate vision. Some patients gain useful near vision, but reading glasses may still be needed for small print or close, detailed work. Visual effects such as glare and halos may still occur.
Best suited for: Patients who prioritize distance and computer-range vision and are comfortable using readers for smaller print when needed.
Multifocal and trifocal IOLs are designed to support vision at multiple distances. Some patients also notice glare, halos around lights, or changes in contrast, particularly at night. Your doctor will discuss these potential visual effects if night driving is an important part of your routine.
Best suited for: Eligible patients who want vision at multiple distances and hope to use glasses less often.
A standard monofocal IOL is designed to provide focus at one primary distance.
When a monofocal lens is set for distance, reading glasses are usually needed for books, menus, phones, and other close work. Glasses may also be helpful for computer use or for sharpening vision at specific distances.
Best suited for: Patients who prioritize one main distance and do not mind wearing glasses for other activities.
“I had lens implants, so now I can see without eyeglasses. The doctors are wonderful, caring.”
“Within two months I had the needed cataract surgeries and my vision is better than I’ve had in over 20 years.”
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