When a cataract develops in an eye, the natural lens becomes cloudy, resulting in blurred vision. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a quick, simple process that can dramatically improve the lives of patients suffering from this condition.
An Effective Artificial Lens
When contact lenses or prescription glasses prove inadequate in correcting cloudy vision, the typical solution involves replacing the affected lens with a new, artificial one called an intraocular lens implant (IOL). These lens replacements focus light entering the eye through the cornea and pupil and onto the retina, where images are relayed to the brain. IOLs can solve multiple problems. They fix the visual impairment caused by cataracts and, in many cases, eliminate the need to wear
prescription glasses, as they contain a patient's appropriate prescription. Some patients do, however, still benefit from reading glasses.
Made of Flexible Material
IOLs are typically made of a soft and flexible silicone or acrylic. To protect eyes from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, these implants are coated with a special material that blocks these light frequencies. During a procedure, a small insertion is made to remove the affected lens, and then the eye doctor rolls the implant into place. The process is quick, typically lasting less than half an hour.
Several Options Are Available
The monofocal IOL is commonly used with
cataract surgery and, as the name indicates, has one focus distance. This focus is set to close, medium-range, or distance vision, with most people opting for distance-vision IOLs. Glasses are no longer needed for seeing objects at a distance, but reading glasses may be recommended for up-close work.
Another option is the multifocal IOL, also called accommodative lenses. These lenses provide different zones for near or far viewing. The brain learns how to automatically select the right zone for the situation at hand, such as driving or reading the newspaper.
Toric lenses are an excellent choice for people with significant astigmatism. This IOL compensates for the curvature of the eye, eliminating the image distortion that can result from astigmatism.
With so many options, it's a good idea to
check with an ophthalmologist to determine the best approach. An eye doctor will inform patients of the pros and cons of each lens type so that they know exactly what to expect before and after the lens replacement procedure.
