Monofocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) vs. Multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
There are many different kind of medical conditions that affect eyesight and overall ocular health which we can treat at our vision center. During an eye exam and full consultation, we'll carefully consider all of your options for care and give you the information that you need to make a wise, well-informed decision about your overall health and wellness.
Some age-related health issues often affect the health of the lenses in a person's eyes. Two common issues are cataracts and presbyopia (i.e., age-related farsightedness), and both can be addressed through the use of intraocular lenses (IOLs). Let's consider IOLs broadly right now and then consider how monofocal IOLs compare to multifocal IOLs with regard to treatment needs and patient experience.
About Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Intraocular lenses are artificial lenses that are used to replace the natural lens of the eye. They are made of clear, specially crafted polymers and help restore vision to a patient.
Ideal Candidates for Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
The best candidates for intraocular lenses are people who have cataracts, suffer from presbyopia, or experience other issues that affect the health and wellness of the eyes. They should have realistic expectations about the surgical process as well as the different pros and cons associated with IOLs, particularly when it comes to monofocal IOLs or mutlifocal IOLs.
Monofocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Monofocal IOLs were the standard for many years. They are corrected for only one point of focus, meaning near vision or distance vision. This means that patients would need to wear corrective lenses in order to see at the other points of focus.
Multifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Multifocal IOLs are relatively new and allow for two or more different points of focus. While corrective lenses may still be necessary in some cases, in general these multifocal IOLs allow patients to experience near vision as well as distance vision.
Is one kind of intraocular lens (IOL) better than the other?
Not necessarily, though many patients do prefer the flexibility that multifocal IOLs afford them since there is greatly reduced need for corrective lenses when compared to monofocal IOLs.
With this in mind, there are some studies that suggest that multifocal IOLs do not provide vision that is as clear as monofocal IOLs, as some patients have noted issues with contrast sensitivity as well as halos around lights.
Which kind of intraocular lens (IOL) is right for me?
This will all depend on your eye care goals and the recommendations of your eye surgeon.
During the consultation process, you will be given ample information about both monofocal IOLs an multifocal IOLs so that you can make the best choice for your needs. Additional guidance with these decisions can be provided as needed. We want to make sure that whatever choice you make, you are satisfied and confident with this decision.
Learn More About Advanced Eye Care Treatment
For more information about your many options available for treating various vision issues, be sure to contact our Merillville and Hobart eye care centers today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible vision and optimal eye health in the process.
