What is an Intraocular Lens and which one is best for me?

It’s amazing to think that the first ever cataracts surgery could have dated back to 2450 BC; according to a document from the fifth dynasty contained in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Fast forward to the present day and Lens Replacement Surgery has come a very long way. Not only does it treat a vast array of impairments such as presbyopia, astigmatism, hyperopia, myopia and cataracts, there are several lenses to choose from to suit your eyes.

Intraocular lenses refer to the artificial lens that is implanted into the eye during the procedure; either in replace of the natural lens or placed in between the natural lens and the iris.

Selecting the Intraocular lens that suits your needs can be a daunting thought. This article will talk you through your options and help you feel prepared before your visit to the ophthalmologist.

Multifocal lenses

Multifocal Lenses are designed to allow the correction of both short and long vision. Generally speaking multifocal lenses are the most popular option to tackle the correction of presbyopia (blurring of close up objects due to loss of elasticity of the lens when the eye ages.)

The progressive design of these lenses allows the light entering the eye to be split into different focal strengths- close up, intermediate and distance vision. This achieves the best possible range of vision.

PanOptix

Otherwise known as a quad focal lens, the PanOptix lens is a form of multifocal lens.

The PanOptix lens is manufactured by Alcon and is steadily gaining popularity with many Ultralase surgeons, due to their versatility and ease of use. Unavailable on the NHS, patients are advised to enquire about the PanOptix lens during their consultations.

Monofocal lenses

Monofocal Lenses are preferred for patients who are unsuitable for a multifocal lens or who require the sole correction of long-sightedness or short-sightedness.

This is because the monofocal lens has a fixed focus for one distance. For those who suffer with both long-sightedness and short-sightedness can be treated with two different monofocal lenses in each eye.

Toric lenses

Due to the unique shape of the lens, Toric lenses are offered to those who have an astigmatism. It’s a common myth that astigmatisms cannot be corrected with Lens Replacement Surgery, but we are happy to let you know that this isn’t the case.

Your surgeon will recommend toric lenses if necessary.

Visian Evo

The Visian EVO lens offers unrivalled results for patients with hyperopia (long-sightedness) and moderate to high myopia (short-sightedness). 20/20 visual accuracy can be achieved within a day of being treated.

Patients benefits include:

• High quality vision at night time
• UV protection
• Sharp, clear vision (according to our 99% satisfaction rate)