Advanced Eyecare
707-544-7044
707-544-7044
There are basically two types of lens implants used in cataract surgery: monofocal and multifocal. Monofocal lenses provide real vision at one distance, usually far away. Glasses are then used for reading.
Some patients choose the reverse - reading without classes, but then they must wear glasses to drive. This type of lens is fully approved and covered by Medicare and most insurances.
Multifocal lens implants will allow most patients to see at near and far without glasses. They do this by having concentric zones of near and far focus, thus providing near and far vision. Multifocal lenses, are considered premium lenses because they not only correct the blur caused by cataracts, but also provide near vision without glasses. 94% of patients with multifocal lenses see at distance and near without glasses.
These lenses are Medicare and insurance approved, but not fully covered. Therefore there is some out of pocket cost for patients choosing these lenses.
The other type of premium lens is a special type of monofocal lens that corrects astigmatism. This is called a toric lens. With this lens we can provide sharper vision at either distance OR near without glasses.
The other type of premium lens is a special type of monofocal lens that corrects astigmatism. This is called a toric lens. With this lens we can provide sharper vision at either distance OR near without glasses.
In their words - cataract surgery with the Acrysof Toric lens implant
The latest type of premium lens is the True Accommodating Lens Implant. We are still awaiting designs that will actually provide accommodation. Current lenses (The Crystal Lens) attempt to do this with varying success.
* Accommodation is what our youthful natural lens does: changes power to allow focusing from far to near.
This procedure can restore vision at distance and near, providing true independence from glaucoma for people over 50. By implanting a multifocal lens implant, this procedure is the only one that restores reading vision and maintains or improves distance vision. It is particularly appropriate for patients who are far-sighted (hyperopic) with Presbyopia.
Laser vision corrections remain the procedure of choice for patients who are near sighted, with or without astigmatism. LASIK is particularly appropriate for patients between 20 and 40. After 40, LASIK can still provide excellent correction of distance vision, but near vision may become worse after LASIK due to presbyopia (the normal loss of near vision as we age).