Main Differences between Standard & Premium Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Most age-related vision problems, such as cataracts, usually require specific treatments at our eye clinic near you. Cataract laser surgery is one of them and is done to break up and remove the clouded lens and then replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL). Replacing your clouded lens with an artificial clear lens is your best bet for seeing clearly.
Some years back, standard intraocular lenses were the only option, but advancements in technology have made it possible for you to have other options, such as premium IOLs.
In any case, IOLs have altered the lives of countless people, and the only challenge might be to choose which option works best for you. Therefore, we will explore standard and premium IOLs and check out their differences.
What are Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)?
IOL is the short form of intraocular lenses. They are minute artificial lenses used to replace the eye’s lens during cataract surgery.
The purpose of the eye lens is to bend or refract light that enters the eye to aid you in seeing. The lens ought to be clear for you to see correctly. But when you have cataracts, your lens becomes cloudy, and things become hazy, blurry, or less colorful. Cataract surgery enables our optometrist in Monterey, CA to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an IOL to enhance your vision.
IOLs have different focusing powers, the same as prescription contact lenses or glasses. When you come for an eye examination, our ophthalmologist will measure the curve of your cornea and the length of your eye. The measurements will help our ophthalmologist to set your IOLs focusing power.
IOLs are made of acrylic, silicone, or other forms of plastic. Moreover, they are coated with special materials to protect the eye from UV rays.
Standard IOLs
As mentioned earlier, the clouded lens is removed and replaced using an IOL. They are high quality and have different strengths. Our ophthalmologist will work with you and determine the strength that will work with you.
Standard IOLs are mono-focal or single-focus. They will give you the sharpest focus at a specific distance, usually far, which is why they are excellent when driving. If you want to see something up close, like when reading or in the middle range of using a computer, you must wear glasses.
If you have astigmatism, you will need eyeglasses after undergoing cataract surgery when you opt for standard IOLs.
Premium IOLs
After receiving a premium IOL, you will experience a better range of vision. Premium intraocular lenses offer some freedom eyeglasses after undergoing cataract surgery. They utilize technology to correct eye irregularities, thus enhancing distance, near, and intermediate vision.
Types of Premium IOLs
Unlike standard mono-focal IOLs, premium IOLs have several types of lenses, such as:
Toric IOLs
These lenses are designed to deal with astigmatism. These IOLs are single-focus lenses that help deal with blurry vision.
Accommodating IOLs
These are also cutting-edge IOLs that are designed to work in tandem with your eye muscles. The lenses can move forward as you focus on close objects and move backward as you focus on objects that are far.
They are almost perfect lenses that work well with most patients. However, these lenses can sometimes become less effective over time and have been linked with other issues such as clouding or tilting, which could mean that you undergo additional procedures.
Multifocal IOLs
These IOLs have more than one focusing power within the lenses. They are similar to bifocal eyeglasses, but they lack distortion or lines. These IOLs are designed to help you focus on the near, middle range, or far distance objects without wearing glasses.
Multifocal IOLs are excellent during the day, but they can make you see halos around lights when it gets dark. Therefore, they will be glares that will interfere with your vision.
Extended Depth of Focus IOLs
These IOLs are similar to multifocal IOLs in many aspects, but the only difference is that they have less focusing power and fewer side effects.
You will not experience serious glares and halos when using these IOLs, but the focusing power won’t be strong. They will help you focus on far and middle-distance objects, but you will need glasses for reading.
Standard IOLs vs. Premium IOLs
When you undergo cataract surgery, you will have the option of choosing between standard and premium IOLs.
As you know, standard IOLs are mono-focal, meaning you will need eyeglasses. If you wish to have a more comprehensive vision improvement, then premium IOLs will sort you out.
Visit an Eye Clinic Near You
Since each IOL has its benefits and drawbacks, it is always best to seek professional assessment and advice. Are you looking to get premium IOLs in Monterey, CA? Contact us at Eye MD Monterey, Cass St, to schedule an appointment for premium intraocular lenses in Monterey.