How Do I Know I’m Choosing The Right IOL?
Choosing an IOL is one of the most important choices you can make when it comes to preparing for cataract surgery. Before you can make that decision, you should have a good idea of what an IOL is.
An IOL replaces your natural lens, which is completely removed during cataract surgery. Without a lens, sight would be impossible, as it is a key part of causing your vision to be in focus.
So what does it mean to “choose the right one”? Keep reading to learn how you can choose the right IOL!
Know Your Options
There is a standard option for IOLs called a monofocal IOL. This is the least expensive option and gives you the ability to see, but only at a single distance.
This means that it can correct your near vision, for example, but you’ll need glasses to see other distances. While still effective, many people want more out of their cataract surgery. Lucky for them and for you, premium IOLs exist.
Premium IOLs cost more but are able to significantly improve vision across the board. There are a few different types of premium IOLs. Premium IOls differ based on how they improve your vision and what they can correct for.
Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal IOLs are the standard counterpart to monofocal IOLs. Rather than only correct for a single distance, they correct for all distances.
This means you should be able to see far, close up, and everything between after surgery. This is because the IOLs themselves are designed with zones at different powers.
Depending on how you are looking through them, focal distance will change. This is a lot like how multifocal glasses or contacts work.
Accommodating IOLs
Accommodating IOLs take it one step further by being able to move inside your eye. This more closely resembles how your natural lens moves.
Your natural lens shifts and stretches inside your eye to change focus. This makes transitioning between far vision and near vision a bit smoother. This may be better for those that want the most natural experience with their IOLs.
Toric IOLs
If you have astigmatism, toric IOLs are the only IOL designed to correct astigmatism. Toric IOLs need to be custom fit to line up and counter your astigmatism.
Aspheric IOLs
One premium option for IOLs that has been gaining traction recently is aspheric IOLs. These IOLs are not symmetrical like other IOLs.
Instead, aspheric IOLs are less spherical in shape. This is meant to more closely resemble the eye’s natural lens.
This helps reduce visual aberrations that may occur because of unnaturally shaped IOLs.
Consult Your Doctor
You can discuss more of your IOL options by signing up for a cataract screening in Shelton, CT at Pinke Eye Center. We’ll be able to give you information and advice on what IOLs will best suit your lifestyle.
The decision is yours to make, but our expertise and training on the subject should be useful to you! Schedule a cataract screening at Pinke Eye Center in Shelton, CT now!
