During cataract surgery, high-tech acrylic intraocular lenses (IOLs) are implanted in the eye to replace the cataract – the natural lens that has become yellow and cloudy over time. At one time, these IOL implants were unable to correct astigmatism and were only able to correct for distance vision, leaving patients dependent on reading glasses for any near tasks such as reading, using a cell phone or working on a computer. Thus, early lens implants could not correct astigmatism and were “monofocal,” meaning that they had only one focal point and could not adjust to varying distances.
New advances in IOL technology have allowed for the development of the AcrySof® Clareon® Toric IOL, which corrects astigmatism, the AcrySof® IQ Clareon® PanOptix Multifocal IOL, which lets patients see clearly at all distances, and the extended depth of focus (EDOF) AcrySof® IQ Clareon® Vivity IOL, which improves intermediate and near vision. The multifocal AcrySof® IQ Clareon® PanOptix IOL and extended depth of focus AcrySof® IQ Clareon® IOL can also correct astigmatism when it is present. The AcrySof® Clareon® Monofocal IOL is the basic IOL, which gives clarity for distance vision without the advantages of the other premium IOLs.
CATARACTS
Cloudy
MONOFOCAL LENS
Distance Only
PANOPTIX LENS
Distance and Details
Premium high-tech IOL implants are ideal for cataract patients who want to minimize their dependence on eyeglasses – patients who want to participate in leisure activities and sports without the hassle and inconvenience of eyeglasses. When undergoing laser cataract surgery, Dr. Hirschfeld and his team will work with each patient to determine which lens is best to reduce each patient’s reliance on eyeglasses so that they can enjoy long-lasting, clear vision.
