Does cataract surgery always need a lens replacement?
Yes. Cataracts cloud your natural lens and surgical treatment removes your damaged lens, replacing it with an intraocular lens so that you can see. Advances in ophthalmic technology have improved the quality of lenses available so that your specific vision needs can be addressed.
How are lenses used in cataract surgery?
Ophthalmologists have been performing cataract surgery since the 1970s. Historically, a standard monofocal lens was used to replace your natural lens. Monofocal lenses offered adequate long-distance vision, but weren’t as effective with shorter distances and some patients had to wear glasses for reading and other close work and hobbies, in some cases, even if they didn’t need glasses before surgery.
What kind of lenses are used in cataract surgery today?
Fortunately, due to technological advances, not only has cataract surgery improved but the variety of lenses available has increased.
Toric
Toric lenses are designed to both replace your natural lens and correct individual astigmatisms. These lenses improve a wide range of vision from arm’s length to longer distances.
Multifocal
Multifocal lenses are crafted so that you can focus on items in both your near and far ranges of vision. Unlike monofocal lenses that only allow you to focus on the distance, these lenses restore your vision, usually without requiring you to wear glasses after your surgery.
Toric Multifocal
Toric multifocal lenses are like the bifocals of replacement lenses. These lenses not only correct your cataracts, but also address astigmatism and both near- and far-sightedness. They offer a flexible solution to patients who want to correct their vision as well as remove their cataracts. In most cases, you won’t need to wear corrective lenses after cataract surgery including the placement of toric multifocal lenses.
Extended Depth of Focus
Extended Depth of Focus lenses are the most technologically advanced lenses available today. They are designed to use a single point of focus which increases the range and depth of vision following cataract surgery. You will be able to see more clearly both from the removal of the cloudy cataracts as well as correcting other vision issues.
How will I know which lenses are right for me?
Dr. Cohen provides comprehensive consultations for his patients. He carefully examines your eyes and vision, collecting details about your lifestyle and overall health. He’ll discuss all of the viable options with you and answer your questions thoroughly so you know your options and are able to make the best decision for your individual needs.
If you have questions about cataracts, cataract surgery, or lens options, call or schedule a consultation online to meet with Dr. Cohen.
