Learn How Different Types of IOLs Can Meet Your Needs

During cataract surgery, an intraocular lens (IOL) is used to replace the eye's natural, clouded lens. Dr. Walter Choate provides several types of IOLs at our Goodlettsville, TN, optometrist's office. It is important to understand the various benefits that these devices offer. During a thorough consultation, our team can find the IOL that is best suited to your unique preferences and needs.

Toric IOLs are specially designed to improve the vision of cataract surgery patients who also suffer from astigmatism.

Types of IOLS

An IOL is a medical device which acts a replacement for natural lenses clouded by cataracts. IOLs typically fall into one of two categories:

Monofocal Lenses

Monofocal IOLs allow a patient to focus clearly at one distance: near or far. This type of IOL is often recommended to patients who also have presbyopia, a type of farsightedness caused by stiffening of the lens. It is important to remember that, in many cases, patients with monofocal lenses may still need to use reading or prescription glasses for close vision. However, in some cases Dr. Choate may be able to reduce your need for corrective eyewear with stronger IOLs.

Despite the fixed focus, monofocal IOLs have certain advantages. Most notably, the cost of standard monofocal lenses is completely covered by both Medicare and private insurance. Specially shaped toric monofocal lenses can correct astigmatism. However, patients should keep in mind that the cost of these premium IOLs is not always covered by medical insurance.

If you need cataract surgery for both eyes, many doctors will recommend using two monofocal lenses, treating one eye for focusing on close objects, and the other for far. While somewhat difficult to adjust to, many patients report highly effective results once they have become accustomed to the change in vision.

Multifocal and Accommodating

Both multifocal and accommodating lenses allow patients to see clearly at near, intermediate, and far distances. Many patients who choose these IOLs do not need corrective eyewear after surgery and report particularly clear vision while using computers and handheld devices. Multifocal IOLs achieve this flexibility in their structure while accommodating IOLs work with the muscles in the eye to change focus.

Many multifocal IOL patients do not need corrective eyewear after surgery and report particularly clear vision while using computers and handheld devices.

Medicare and most private insurers will not pay for the cost of any lenses or services that exceed those of a standard IOL.

Our IOL Options

During your initial cataract consultation, Dr. Choate will help determine which type of IOL is best suited to your lifestyle and budget. In some cases, we may recommend a different IOL for each eye so that you can take advantage of the benefits of both.

We primarily offer multifocal and accommodating IOLs, including:

AcrySof® IQ ReSTOR®: This multifocal IOL features a series of tiered steps to help patients see clearly at a range of distances.
ReZoom®: A type of multifocal IOL, ReZoom® can simultaneously treat the effects of cataracts and presbyopia.
Crystalens®: An accommodating IOL, Crystalens® bends and flexes like a natural lens. Cataract or presbyopic patients can adjust to a large range of distances with this option.

Learn More During an Appointment

The team at Choate Eye Associates coordinates eye care to provide comprehensive services with the best technology available. Reach out today to set up an appointment with one of our doctors and discuss your IOL options.