Lens Implant Options
Not all intraocular implants are the same. The type of lens implant you receive depends on your specific vision problem. These five IOL types are all designed to improve the eyesight of cataract patients. However, advancements in technology and surgical procedures enable other vision problems to be corrected at the same time.
Monofocal lens implants
Monofocal lens implants are something of first-generation IOLs that, when originated, only corrected vision at one general distance – near, intermediate, or far. While providing basic relief and improved vision for a cataract patient, other distances need to be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. For the most part, monofocal IOLs have been replaced with a number of multifocal alternatives.
ReSTOR A®
ReSTOR A® is a trademarked multifocal IOL that is uniquely designed to improve vision at all distances. Based on technology applied to both microscopes and telescopes, this alternative essentially minimizes or eliminates the need for eyeglasses in about 80 percent of patients treated with this alternative. ReSTOR A® is the latest advance. It replaces its predecessor, the ReSTOR® implant. ReSTOR A® helps to reduce night glare and halos.
ReZoom™
ReZoom™ is another trademarked multifocal IOL, used to improve vision of those afflicted with cataracts and presbyopia. ReZoom™ offers the additional benefits of improving close-up vision and sharpness in low lighting conditions. While the surgical procedure for implanting ReZoom™ IOL's is considered minimal risk, some patients have reported post-surgical halos or glare around bright lights, a side effect that usually diminishes in the weeks or months following the surgery.
Crystalens®
Crystalens® is another IOL alternative. Crystalens® is the first and only IOL that is able to bend and flex like a natural lens.
It could be said that Crystalens® implants rejuvenate aging eyes in that a patient’s visual acuity is improved to the level of that found in younger eyes. FDA approved in 2003, Crystalens® IOLs enjoy a high success rate, as found in one study where 98.4 percent of patients achieved 20/40 vision or better, with most achieving 20/30 or 20/20 vision.
Toric IOLs
Toric IOLs are designed to also correct certain forms of mild to moderate astigmatism. To achieve maximum visual improvement, toric IOLs must be carefully aligned in relation to the curvature and topography of the cornea.
