Premium IOLs & Bladeless Cataract Surgery
Vista Eye Care offers the latest technology in cataract surgery and intraocular implants (“IOLs”)
There have been many advancements in cataract surgery recently, including premium intraocular lenses designed to correct astigmatism and trouble reading and seeing the computer (presbyopia). Also, there is now a bladeless cataract surgery option to help address astigmatism and improve the accuracy and safety of cataract surgery. Below are descriptions of the premium IOLs and bladeless cataract surgery. Be sure to consult your doctor at Vista Eye Care to determine which option is best for you.
Standard or Monofocal IOLs
In cataract surgery, an intraocular lens is implanted after the cataract is removed. The standard lens, also known as a monofocal IOL, will generally restore clear vision but it only has one focusing distance. It can be set to focus for near vision, arms-length range or distance vision and most people select clear distance vision. For example, if a patient elects for the IOL to correct distance vision, they will need glasses for intermediate/computer range and reading/near work. Another limitation of the monofocal lens is that it does not correct astigmatism.
Astigmatism correcting or Toric IOLs
Astigmatism is an irregularity in the curvature of the eye that causes visual distortion at all distances. Toric IOLs can correct astigmatism and provide clearer distance vision without glasses, but patients still require reading glasses following surgery.
Multifocal or Presbyopia-correcting IOLs
Multifocal IOLs are designed to give the best distance, intermediate (arms-length) and near vision with less dependence on glasses after surgery. This lens has different zones set at different powers. It is designed so that your brain learns to select the right focus automatically. With the multifocal lens, most patients enjoy the freedom to read, use cell phones and other electronic devices, play golf and drive without the need for glasses. Most patients are thrilled by the freedom these implants provide and feel that the increased cost was well worth it.
Monovision
Another way to decrease the need for glasses after cataract surgery is to have one eye corrected for distance and the other eye corrected for near. While both eyes are open the brain learns to use the distance eye for viewing objects far away and the near eye for close tasks such as reading. Your doctor at Vista Eye Care will perform several tests to determine if monovision is a good option for you.
Bladeless or Femtosecond Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery
Bladeless cataract surgery is an innovative procedure that helps to remove cataracts with a laser rather than a blade, providing a greater level of precision and safety. A highly advanced computer-guidance system customizes the laser treatment for each patient, which improves accuracy, reduces inflammation and swelling, and can speed healing time. In some cases, bladeless cataract surgery can provide a higher degree of correction for refractive error, such as astigmatism, than traditional cataract surgery.