As cataract surgical procedures and product design technology continue to advance, patients have more choices than ever for the intraocular lenses (IOL) that restore clear vision by replacing the eye’s clouded natural lenses.
These new options provide clarity of vision across a range of distances, while offering a comfortable lens that never wears out and a prescription that never changes. Below, the experienced vision care professionals of Austin Eye review the newest implantable lens innovations.
New Dimensions in Clarity
Although monofocal lenses still have their place, patients and ophthalmologists alike are excited about the new varieties of multifocal lenses that promise greater freedom from contacts, glasses and reading glasses. Most offer two set fields of vision, but new trifocal options provide clear vision at near, far and intermediate distances.
The PanOptix intraocular lens is the most popular trifocal IOL. PanOptix works by splitting light into three focal points: The intermediate focal point for these exceptional lenses is 60 cm, which is within the optimal range for performing tasks using digital screens. The near vision focal point is 40 cm, an ideal distance for reading and other close-range tasks. The third focal point is infinity, allowing clear, panoramic views of the world around you.
Although it is new to the U.S., PanOptix has established a solid track record around the world, with a documented satisfaction rate of 99 percent.
Other choices include the Symfony and TECNIS multifocal lenses that use a special surface design to bring close and distant objects into focus without eye muscle assistance.
Another groundbreaking lens is the Toric ICL, or Visian Toric Implantable Collamer Lens, an implantable lens option that is perfect for treating many cases of high-prescription myopic astigmatism. This lens is a great choice for those who may not meet the criteria for LASIK. People with dry eyes or thin corneas are also advised to consider this option. Although there have been other implantable lenses that treat either myopia or astigmatism, the Toric ICL is the first that treats both at the same time.
If you would like to learn more about the convenience and clarity of implantable lenses, we invite you to schedule a personal consultation with one of the board-certified ophthalmologists at Austin Eye. Contact us by calling 512-250-2020.
