If your doctor has recommended cataract surgery you may be aware that there are many IOL options. Cataract surgery involves removing the natural lens along with the cataract. It is then replaced with an artificial lens. This is an intraocular lens or IOL.
There are several types of IOLs, and each is a little different. Your doctor can help recommend what kind of IOL to get, but the final decision is up to you.
Not sure you know what the best IOL is for your lifestyle? We’re here to help! Keep reading for some questions to ask yourself about IOLs and your lifestyle!
What Is Your Financial Situation?
Cataract surgery is usually covered by insurance. This is because it is a necessary medical procedure for your insurance company. But not all IOLs are covered by insurance.
In fact, there’s only one kind of IOL that’s covered by insurance– monofocals. Monofocal IOLs are standard IOLs that only have one, uniform surface.
They can still correct your vision, but you may have to wear reading glasses to see things up-close.
Other kinds of IOLs that can allow you to see more sharply are “premium” IOLs. Premium IOLs cost a little bit out of pocket as they are not covered by insurance.
A premium IOL may not necessarily be the best choice for you.
Do You Frequently Use Electronics With Screens?
If you look at screens a lot, monovision might be right for you. Monovision is what happens when you have a monofocal IOL in each eye.
One eye is set to see at a distance, while the other is set to see up-close. This allows the patient to see well at intermediate distances. This is perfect if you spend a lot of time viewing screens! w
Would You Prefer Not to Rely on Reading Glasses?
If you go with monovision, you will probably still have to use reading glasses to see up-close. If you want to see well up-close and far away, a multifocal lens may be for you.
A multifocal IOL is a premium IOL comprised of rings each set to different refractive powers. The lens trains your brain to look out different sections of the lens.
This depends on if you’re trying to focus on something near or far away. This often eliminates the need for reading glasses.
What Do You Do Every Day at Work?
If you primarily use electronics at work, monofocals may be best for you. But if your job could improve because of better vision, you may want an accommodative lens.
An accommodative IOL is a premium IOL that allows the patient to see at a distance and up-close. This occurs by becoming thicker when the eye focuses and thinner when it relaxes.
This lets the patient see well up-close and far away while minimizing the need for full-time glasses. It does not allow the fine focus of a multi-focus lens so the patient still may need reading glasses.
Wondering which IOL option may be right for you? Have questions about cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract screening at New England Eye Center in Boston, MA today!
