Intraocular Lens Types

Implant choices from monofocal to multifocal

Overview

Intraocular lenses, IOLs, are artificial lenses implanted in the eye, most often to replace the natural lens during cataract surgery. They are typically made of acrylic or silicone, are foldable so they can pass through a small incision, and are designed to sit within the capsular bag. Monofocal lenses provide clear focus at a single distance, usually far, so reading glasses are often still needed. Toric lenses incorporate a cylindrical power to correct corneal astigmatism. Multifocal lenses, including bifocal and trifocal designs, use diffractive or refractive optics to split light into several focal points, reducing dependence on glasses at the cost of possible halos, glare, and reduced contrast sensitivity. Extended depth of focus lenses elongate the range of focus, offering good distance and intermediate vision with fewer optical side effects. The light adjustable lens can have its power modified after implantation using ultraviolet light treatments. Phakic intraocular lenses are a separate category implanted without removing the natural lens. Lens selection takes into account the measurements of the eye, ocular health, and visual needs.