Cataracts occur when the natural lens of your eye becomes blurry. When non-surgical treatment options fail to correct vision that is impaired by this condition, cataract surgery can help restore optimal vision.
What Are Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)?
Cataracts, one of the leading causes of blindness, results in the clouding of the internal lens in the eyes. Fortunately, this condition can be corrected through cataract surgery. During cataract surgery, the cloudy portion of the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant. When a patient develops cataracts in one or both eyes, an ophthalmologist may recommend premium lens cataract surgery. This surgery differs from “normal” cataract replacement because it utilizes intraocular lenses (IOLs) that address astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.
What Are Toric Lens Implants?
Toric lens implants can be used to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is a condition that results in the abnormal curvature of your cornea or the lens of your eye. What does this mean? Look at it this way: your eye resembles the shape of a baseball. An eye with astigmatism resembles the shape of a football. The result of this irregularity is blurred or distorted vision.
Because astigmatism results in an imperfection in the shape of the eye, spherical lenses do not work for patients with this condition. Toric lenses are soft lenses that work with the shape of the eye to help refract light and prevent blurred or distorted vision.
What Are Multifocal Lenses?
Multifocal lenses, also known as multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs), are another type of lens implant used in cataract surgery. These lenses have different zones that allow for vision correction at distance vision, providing clear vision for both near and far objects. This eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
Unlike traditional mono-focal IOLs, which only correct vision at one distance, multifocal lens implants offer a range of focus similar to that of bifocals or progressive glasses. Patients with astigmatism can also benefit from multifocal toric lens implants, which combine the features of both multifocal and toric lenses to correct multiple vision issues at once.
Multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) is a popular choice for those looking to reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. Many patients report improved visual acuity and increased independence from corrective eyewear with the use of multifocal lens implants.
How Can Multifocal and Toric Lenses Help Me With Cataracts?
Patients who receive cataract surgery still need to wear glasses full-time or require reading glasses for optimal vision. Multifocal and toric lenses that are implanted during surgery allow patients to be more independent from the use of glasses by correcting conditions of astigmatism or near and far-sighted vision. Not all patients, however, are suited for multifocal lens implants. That is why it is important to consult with your ophthalmologist to discern what the best option for you and your vision is.
Specialty lenses, such as multifocal and toric lenses, are not covered by insurance plans. Because insurance companies consider them cosmetic treatments, they are considered out-of-pocket expenses. For more information regarding these specialty lenses, call (412)-288-0858.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Multifocal and Toric Lens Implants?
Generally, good candidates for multifocal IOLs and toric lens implants are those who are already experiencing presbyopia or another vision impairment in addition to cataracts. If you have astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness, these lens implants may be beneficial for you. It is important to consult with your ophthalmologist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. Additionally, patients who prioritize independence from glasses and have realistic expectations about the outcome of their surgery are ideal candidates for multifocal intraocular lens and toric lens implants.
Ready to Improve Your Vision? Schedule a Consultation Today!
Multifocal and toric lens implants offer a great alternative to traditional cataract surgery as they can correct various vision impairments such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. They provide patients with greater independence from glasses and a more natural visual experience. However, it is important to consult with your ophthalmologist to determine if these lens implants are the best option for you.
At Everett & Hurite, Dr. Charles Kent,Dr. Edward Chang, and Dr. Hall Thomas McGee IV are highly experienced members of our care team who specialize in diagnosing and treating cataract symptoms. If you are struggling with cataracts and want to learn more about your treatment options, our ophthalmology team is here to help. The care team at Everett & Hurite provides services to treat this condition across our 10 locations.
Visit one of our offices located throughout Greater Pittsburgh, Steubenville, OH, and Weirton WV, or request an appointment with one of our doctors. For more information, call (412)-288-0858.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my eyes to fully heal after cataract surgery with multifocal or toric lens implants?
Most patients experience significant improvement in their vision within a few days, but it can take several weeks for your eyes to fully heal and adjust to the new lenses. To ensure proper healing, it is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by our ophthalmologist at Everett & Hurite.
Will I still need glasses after receiving multifocal or toric lens implants during cataract surgery?
While many patients experience reduced dependence on glasses after receiving these specialty lenses, there is no guarantee that they will not need them at all. Our ophthalmologist can discuss your individual expectations and determine the best treatment option for you.
Is it possible to replace a mono-focal lens with a multifocal or toric lens after cataract surgery?
Yes, it is possible to have a mono-focal lens replaced with a multifocal or toric lens if needed. However, this additional procedure may come with additional risks and costs. It is important to consult with our ophthalmologist at Everett & Hurite before making any decisions about replacing a lens implant.
