Cataract surgery is performed to remove the eye's natural lens that has clouded over with a cataract. The lens is then replaced with an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens. There are different types of intraocular lens. Here, we identify the different types of intraocular lenses and explain what makes them different.
monofocal intraocular lens
Sometimes called a traditional intraocular lens, a monofocal intraocular lens is the most common type of replacement lens. It offers clear vision, but at only one distance: near, intermediate or far vision. Most people have monofocal intraocular lenses adjusted for distance vision and wear glasses for reading or for tasks that require clear near vision.
multifocal intraocular lens
Similar to multifocal glasses, multifocal intraocular lenses offer clear vision at two or more distances. There are two types of multifocal intraocular lenses: bifocal intraocular lenses and trifocal intraocular lenses. Bifocals offer distance and intermediate or near vision at specific distances, at the same time. Trifocals offer vision at three different distances: near, intermediate and far. The goal of these lenses is to reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, multifocal intraocular lenses can also create problems with night vision, such as glare and/or halos around lights. They can also decrease the sharpness of vision compared to a single vision lens.
Accommodative intraocular lenses
Accommodating intraocular lenses are designed to mimic the eye's natural focusing process. These lenses provide distance vision and can change focus, allowing you to see up close. You may still need reading glasses to see fine details and fine print.
Intraocular lenses extended depth of focus
Extended depth of focus intraocular lenses are the newest type of intraocular lens. Unlike multifocal intraocular lenses that provide clear vision at two or more specific distances, depth intraocular lenses are designed to provide a continuous range of clear vision, from near to far.
Intraocular lens toric
A toric intraocular lens is designed to correct the refractive error caused by an oval-shaped cornea due to astigmatism. Like the other types of intraocular lens, there is a chance that you still need glasses for distance, intermediate and/or near vision.
There are many factors to consider when choosing an intraocular lens. Lifestyle, visual needs, and cost are considerations. The specialist ophthalmologist will be able to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of various intraocular lenses and help you choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
El Dr. José Alberto Muiños Gómez-Camacho, medical director of Innova Ocular Muiños Clinic, Comment in this video what type of intraocular lens is recommended for each patient.
