Cataract removal is a two-part process. Because the procedure involves removing a clouded lens, there is a necessity for a new lens. Decades ago, when cataract surgery was first developed, patients were left with an enormous need for eyeglasses. This was because there was no variety in the type of lens that was placed after cataracts were removed. Intraocular lenses have been in use since the early 1950s. These implants have always been made from polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). However, early devices were hard and somewhat rigid. Those that are used today are foldable.
The topic of intraocular lens implants for cataract surgery may seem relatively unstimulating. However, it is a conversation every patient needs to have with their doctor. Because multiple implant options exist today, it is necessary to become well-informed about the benefits available with each different type. No patient is on their own to choose an intraocular lens. We not only provide information on the various options but we also perform a screening for each patient in which sophisticated technology is used to measure their eyes for the most appropriate implant.
Choosing the Best Implant for You
Intraocular lenses are intended to provide the degree of vision a person desires after cataract removal. What this comes down to is how much or how little the patient wants to rely on eyeglasses for various activities. With careful selection, it is possible to greatly reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses or correction for distance vision. We achieve optimal outcomes with an extensive selection of lens types.
- Basic intraocular lenses provide single-vision correction. This option may be ideal for the patient who only wears reading glasses or lenses for distance vision before their cataract surgery. If more extensive correction is needed, another lens may be selected or the patient may choose to wear glasses for either up-close or distance tasks.
- Multifocal lenses allow the eye doctor to custom correct vision much more readily. Examples of multifocal lenses include Restor™, Crystalens™, and Symfony™. A multifocal lens has the capability of adjusting for near and distance vision without eyeglasses.
- Newer multifocal intraocular lenses have been developed to correct astigmatism, something that was previously difficult to accomplish with basic and standard multifocal lenses. Also referred to as Toric lenses, these new devices are appropriate for many patients with moderate to severe astigmatism.
Vision correction may go hand-in-hand with cataract removal surgery. Our team has years of experience and familiarity with the devices that have a proven track record of success. To explore cataract removal and vision-correcting lenses, schedule a consultation with us in Canfield, Alliance, or North Canton.