Cataract surgery, which involves removing the eye’s cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear, artificial lens, is a common procedure. But you may still have quite a few questions. One of the most common questions is “Will I need a new eyeglass prescription after surgery?” The answer is that it depends. It depends on both your vision pre-surgery and which type of replacement lens you choose.
There are many different IOLs to choose from. Your eye doctor will discuss your options with you based on your specific needs. These include the IC-8® Apthera™ IOL. Other IOL types are also available such as monofocal IOLs, multifocal IOLs, extended depth of focus IOLs, accommodating IOLs, and toric IOLs. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Discuss all your IOL options with your eye doctor so you can choose the IOL that best meets your expectations and lifestyle.
Monofocal IOLs are single-focus lenses designed to provide far vision. This means you will usually be able to see objects far away, but you will most likely need glasses for near vision activities such as reading, sewing, and writing, as well as intermediate vision activities such as working on a computer, putting on make-up, or shaving.
Multifocal IOLs provide vision at two or more distances to treat presbyopia, the loss of range of vision. There are two types of multifocal IOLs: bifocal IOLs and trifocal IOLs. Bifocals offer far and intermediate or near vision at specific distances, at the same time. Trifocals offer vision at three distinct distances: near, intermediate, and far. The goal of these lenses is to reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, multifocal IOLs also can create problems with night vision, such as glare and/or halos around lights. They may also decrease the sharpness of your vision compared to a monofocal lens.
Extended depth of focus (EDF) IOLs are the newest type of IOL for the treatment of presbyopia. Unlike multifocal IOLs, EDF IOLs provide a continuous range of vision from far to intermediate, with some lens designs also providing functional near vision. Reading glasses may still be needed to see fine details and small print. The IC-8 Apthera IOL is an extended depth of focus IOL.
Accommodating IOLs are designed to mimic the natural focusing process of the
eye. These lenses provide far vision and may change focus, enabling you to see up close (near). You may still need reading glasses to see fine details and small print.
Toric IOLs are designed for people with astigmatism. There are three types of toric IOLs: monofocal toric IOLs, multifocal toric IOLs, and EDF toric IOLs. Toric IOLs can correct the refractive error caused by a cornea with an oval shape due to astigmatism. Like the other types of IOLs, there is a chance you may still need glasses for far, intermediate, and/or near vision.
The Apthera IOL
The Apthera IOL is an extended depth of focus lens designed to give cataract patients (with or without a small amount of astigmatism*) the advantage of clear, focused vision from near to far, and everything in between.1 The Apthera IOL is intended for use in just one eye and is paired with a monofocal or monofocal toric (astigmatism-correcting) IOL in the fellow eye. This powerful combination will be customized by your physician based on your visual and lifestyle needs to help you achieve your best personal vision.
Back to the question, “Will I need a new eyeglass prescription after cataract surgery?” The answer is maybe. But, after cataract surgery, you are likely to experience an improvement in both your vision and ability to perform tasks.
It’s important to talk with your doctor about your lifestyle and specific vision needs. He or she can help you choose the right IOL for you.
Ask your eye doctor if the Apthera intraocular lens (IOL).
Live life in focus.
Find an Apthera IOL doctor near you.
*as much as 1.5 diopters (D)
1 Data on file, AcuFocus, Inc.
Sources:
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/best-artificial-lens-IOL-cataract-surgery
