Multifocal IOL vs. Monofocal IOL
Choosing The Right Lens Option For You!
Until recently cataract patients received monofocal lens implants that had only a single power. This meant you had a choice of correction for either far or near vision. If you suffer from presbyopia like many people over the age 50 this would mean that you still need glasses for either reading or for distance vision. The FDA has now approved several multifocal lens implants for use by certified ophthalmologists. The multifocal IOL lens can increase your chances for a life free of dependence on glasses or contacts after cataract surgery for near, far, and intermediate vision. If you have worn glasses for 30 years this might be an opportunity for you to eliminate this hassle from your life.
The implantation procedure is the same for both types of IOLs. The main point of differentiation between the IOLs is in the type of vision they provide.
| MONOFOCAL | MULTIFOCAL | ACCOMMODATING |
| Traditional Lens | ReSTOR and Re- Zoom Lenses |
Crystalens |
| Provides good vi- sion at one dis- tance (typically far vision) |
Correct vision for near, far and inter- mediate distances |
Corrects vision for all ranges of vision using a hinged monofocal lense that moves within the eye like the natural lens of the eye |
| Requires reading glasses after sur- gery |
May substantially reduce the need for glasses* |
May substantially reduce the need for glasses for dis- tance and interme- diate vision* |
| Covered by Medicare |
Partial coverage by Medicare (consult our staff) |
Partial coverage by Medicare (consult our staff) |
*Compared with monofocal IOLs, multifocal and accommo-
dating lenses may reduce the need for glasses in activities
like reading, or viewing text on a computer screen
