Intraocular Lens Implants (IOLs)

A Monofocal lens implant provides excellent vision after cataract surgery, but only at one set distance (usually for seeing things at a distance). When focused at distance, these lenses work well for seeing distant signs when driving, going to a movie, or watching TV. Monofocal lens implants will require usage of glasses for any type of near vision activity, like reading, knitting, sewing, playing cards, or using a computer. You may also need glasses for distance, especially if you have astigmatism.

Monofocal IOLs are typically more affordable compared to premium IOLs. They are covered by insurance plans such as Medicare and are generally the default option for cataract surgery. If cost is a significant factor for a patient, a Monofocal (standard) IOL may be a more practical choice.

What are the benefits of a Monofocal IOL?

• Clarity at One Distance: Monofocal lenses offer excellent clarity at the chosen distance, reducing the need for glasses for tasks like driving or watching TV.
• Reliability: They have a long track record of safety and effectiveness in cataract surgery.
• Lower Cost: Monofocal lenses are often more cost-effective compared to premium Multifocal

When to consider choosing a Monofocal IOL

• The patient has a strong preference for clear distance vision without the need for glasses.
• The patient is willing to use reading glasses for near tasks if necessary.
• The patient has no major issues with astigmatism, which can be corrected with additional procedures or toric Monofocal lenses.
• The patient wants a more budget-friendly option for cataract surgery.

TECNIS® Eyhance Monofocal IOL

TECNIS® Eyhance Monofocal is engineered for a higher standard of optical excellence allowing patients to experience the sharp, high-quality vision they deserve. This lens by TECNIS, a Johnson & Johnson Company is the next generation of Monofocal lens. What sets it apart from other IOLs is the breakthrough design that allows the depth of focus to be slightly extended.

Multifocal IOLs – Premium

Unlike Monofocal lenses, Multifocal lenses are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances, typically near and far.  Etched onto the surface of the Multifocal lens are concentric rings, which allow images at a variety of distances to focus on the retina. The lens accurately distributes light at any focal point, creating clear vision at any distance. The Multifocal lens always provides near and far vision capability at the same time. Your brain will quickly learn to adjust to the correct focus depending upon your activity.

What are the benefits of a Multifocal IOL?

• Reduced Dependence on Glasses: Multifocal lenses can reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses for both near and distance vision.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: They can improve the patient’s overall quality of life by allowing them to perform a wide range of activities without constantly reaching for glasses.
• Versatility: The patient can read, use a computer, and see distant objects without switching between different pairs of glasses.

When to consider choosing a Multifocal IOL

• The patient wants to minimize their reliance on glasses for various tasks, such as reading, using electronic devices, and driving.
• The patient’s lifestyle involves a range of activities that require clear vision at different distances.
• The patient is willing to accept some trade-offs in visual quality, as Multifocal lenses can cause glare or halos, especially in low-light conditions.
• The eye surgeon determines that the patient is a suitable candidate, considering factors like the health of their eyes, corneal health, and visual expectations.

TECNIS^® Multifocal IOL – High Quality Across All Distance

The TECNIS Multifocal by Johnson and Johnson is designed with patients in mind. Optimized for those favoring intermediate vision activities like grocery shopping, it also delivers tailored clarity at a reading distance of 20 inches. This IOL delivers increased independence from eyeglasses and low light and performance for outstanding outcomes, even at night.

• High quality vision across near, intermediate and distance vision.
• 97% of patients would elect to have the TECNIS^®Multifocal IOL again.
• 8% of patients experienced no difficulty with night vision.

Toric IOLs – Premium

Toric intraocular lenses correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is defined as the surface of the eye not being perfectly round (like a basketball), but rather oblong (more like an American football). For those with significant astigmatism, and the desire to minimize their dependence on glasses at one distance (usually far away), toric implants can be an excellent option. Toric IOLs are available in Monofocal and Multifocal options and are in most cases not covered by insurance. 

TECNIS® Eyhance Toric IITM: A Specialized Solution for Astigmatism 

For those with astigmatism an enhanced vision treatment is required. The TECNIS Eyhance™ Toric II IOL is the latest innovation in the industry leading TECNIS^® Family of IOLs. It allows patients to achieve significantly improved intermediate vision along with 20/20 distance vision.

• Tailored for Astigmatism: The Tecnis Toric II lens is designed especially for patients with astigmatism. Astigmatism is an irregularly shaped cornea that requires specialized attention.
• Reduced Spherical Aberrations:A common issue with many traditional intraocular lenses is the challenge of spherical aberrations that can cloud vision. Tecnis Toric II is engineered to counteract this.
• Optimal Visual Contrast: Tecnis Toric II offers superior visual contrast to the right candidate. This results in not just seeing things but seeing them with depth and detail.

Light Adjustable Lenses – RxSight LAL

The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) by RxSight™ is an exciting new intraocular lens (IOL) technology that can be customized to a patient’s exact preferences after cataract surgery has been completed. The LAL is implanted during a conventional cataract surgery but can be adjusted through the use of ultraviolet light treatments that are performed 2-3 weeks after surgery. The power of the lenses can be modified after the patient is healed from surgery to achieve the highest level of prescription accuracy.

Light Adjustable Lenses are made of a special photosensitive material that can be modified and reshaped by the targeted use of ultraviolet (UV) light from a Light Delivery Device (LDD). This reshaping can adjust the power of the lenses giving your eye surgeon the ability to adjust and preview a patient’s vision until it meets their personal desires and lifestyle requirements. LALs can also be used in the treatment of astigmatism.

What are the benefits of a Light Adjustable IOL?

• Enhanced visual outcomes: LALs offer the possibility of achieving precise vision correction tailored to the individual patient’s needs. This can potentially result in better vision compared to traditional IOLs.
• Flexibility: The ability to fine-tune the lens power allows for adjustments even after the initial surgery. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who experience changes in their refractive error over time.
• Reduced dependence on glasses: By optimizing the lens power, LALs may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses for both distance and near vision, providing increased independence for patients.

When to consider choosing a Light Adjustable IOL

• The patient wants to minimize their reliance on glasses for various tasks, such as reading, using electronic devices, and driving.
• The patient wants to ‘test drive’ their vision after cataract surgery to ensure that the outcome is exactly what they want.

When to Choose a Premium Lens? 

SoCal Eye – Intraocular Lens Implants, Long Beach

There are several different intraocular lens implants available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Rest assured that the SoCal Eye vision care team will do its best to educate each patient so that an informed decision can be made as to which option will be appropriate.  At SoCal Eye, we are pleased to offer all options to ensure our patients have every opportunity to benefit from the choices available—and to choose the option that is best for their anatomy and their lifestyle.

All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye Cataract Specialist or Cataract Surgeon in Long Beach. Cataract Treatment for patients in Long Beach, Cypress, Cerritos and Garden Grove.  Schedule an Appointment today at (562) 531-2020 or send us an Online Consultation Request