Having surgery to correct your cataracts for clearer vision is an easy decision to make, but choosing which replacement lenses are implanted can be a bit trickier. Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are the clear artificial lenses used to replace your eye’s natural lens. There are several types of IOLs with different functions. The standard lenses covered by most insurance plans will improve distance vision, while premium IOLs can correct refractive errors at all distances.
Standard IOLs have been around since the 1970s and have helped millions of Americans see better after having cataract surgery. More than six million IOLs are implanted every year in the U.S. Standard IOLs are monofocal, focusing on optimal vision at one specific distance. Often patients still need reading glasses after having standard IOLs replace their natural lenses. While they continue to be a safe and effective treatment for cataracts, new lenses have been developed over the years that offer even better vision.
Premium IOLs
Premium IOLs help you to see better at any distance, greatly reducing the need for corrective lenses after cataract surgery. Another benefit of premium IOLs is their ability to correct astigmatism. Prior to recent developments, this wasn’t possible, and patients still needed corrective lenses after cataract surgery to treat astigmatism. But with the advent of toric design technology, patients with astigmatism can also enjoy all the benefits of cataract surgery.
Which premium IOL is right for you depends on your unique set of circumstances. Your ophthalmologist will discuss with you which option may be best for your vision needs, factoring in your profession and leisure activities.
Active Life Lenses™
Gulf Coast Eye Institute is proud to offer our patients the finest in premium IOLs from Active Life Lenses™. Alcon, the company behind Active Life Lenses, is one of the most trusted names in the industry. It has been a leader in the field of ophthalmology and eye-related products for over 75 years. Their cutting-edge technology has produced four versions of their Active Life Lenses that have revolutionized lens replacement surgery.
The Tecnis Symfony® Lens
The Tecnis Symfony Lens was the first Active Life Lens available to treat patients with astigmatism and presbyopia. This revolutionary artificial lens greatly reduces most patients’ need for corrective eyewear after cataract surgery.
The Tecnis® Multifocal Lens
This lens utilizes a wavefront technology design for improved low-light conditions and distance vision. It works to boost contrast sensitivity which helps you differentiate objects in less than ideal lighting. It is also available in a toric design for patients with astigmatism.
The Acrysof® IQ Panoptix® Trifocal Lens
This state-of-the-art premium IOL is the first and only trifocal lens available in the U.S. Its unique design allows for improved focusing close-up, mid-range, and at a distance.
The vast majority of patients report never needing corrective eyewear. The remaining 11% said they rarely need to wear glasses. These lenses also work well in all levels of light, including night driving and reading in dim light. The Acrysof IQ Panoptix Trifocal lens is also available in a toric lens design for patients with astigmatism.
The Acrysof® IQ Restor® Lens
The IQ Restor lens is another great lens for all vision distances. It features pupil technology that optimizes performance, delivering a greater degree of sharp vision.
Speak with an Ophthalmologist About Premium IOL Options
Considering cataract surgery? Visit with one of Gulf Coast Eye Institute’s IOL specialists to help you choose the right artificial lens for your eyes and lifestyle. Schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist today, call 844-485-3202 or click here to make an appointment online.
