Multifocal IOL

MULTIFOCAL IOLs or PREMIUM IOLs:

Intraocular lens Implants are prosthetic lenses that are implanted into the eye following the removal of a cataract or during a refractive lens exchange surgery. Depending of the type of lens, the material varies from plastic to silicone. The IOL replaces the natural crystalline lens and becomes a permenant fixture inside your eye. Intraocular lenses have different degrees of vision correction. They can either be monofocal or multifocal, meaning you can have a single zone of clear vision or multiple zones.

Multifocal lenses combine both distance and near powered lenses into one single lens. The lower powered zones will bend light coming from distant objects to one focal point. The high powered zones bend light from near objects to the same focal point on the retina. The different zones of lens power work to together to provide both near and distance vision.

There are different types of multifocal IOLs (lens implants) that are currently available for implantation in the eye (See figures). The ReZoom™ and ReSTOR™ lenses are the two most common lenses that work under the multifocal lens principle. Each lens incorporates the ring-shaped zones to provide the multifocal effect. The third lens, Crystalens™, offers the same results but in a different manner. The Crystalens™ works by moving back and forth on small hinges. The Crystalens™ can change its power in the eye similar to the natural lens that it is replacing. Crystalens™ is said to be an accommodating lens that can provide both near and distance vision.

During your consultation, Dr. John will elaborate more on the details of each type of multifocal IOL. Depending on your current vision condition an appropriate lens may be chosen for you. The different multifocal IOLs each have unique qualities that may be helpful to correct your vision for both distance and near. Dr. John will discuss the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision for your eyes.

The above information is provided by Thomas John Vision Institute, P.C., and is not intended to replace the medical service and advice of Dr. John. Kindly consult your health care provider for advice regarding a special medical/ocular condition.

Last Revised/Updated on April 25, 2009.