Intraocular lens or IOL is a premium, tiny and artificial lens for the eye. It is used to replace the natural lens of the eye to remove the cataract. Know what are the different types of IOLs used in the Cataract Surgery.
2. Introduction
With the rapid advancement of technology, the world of vision treatments has
undergone revolutionary changes in recent times. Removal of cataracts may
make the natural lens opaque. For restoration of vision to normalcy, intraocular
lenses are implanted.
The intraocular lens is also popularly referred to as IOLs. Sir Harold Ridley
implanted the first IOL in the year 1949. At that time, the material used in its
construction was acrylic. In 1981 the USA Food and Drug Administration
declared these lenses safe for human eyes.
3. Types of Intraocular Lenses
Before having the surgical procedure, however, you will have to decide on the
type of artificial lens you need.
1. Multifocal Lens
2. Monofocal Lens
3. Toric Lens
4. 1. Monofocal Lens
Among the numerous varieties of IOLs, Monofocal is the basic one. Monofocal
lenses involve correcting one point of focus and aim rectification for one distance
only (far or near) unless the monovision technique is applied.
The monovision technique involves correction for both close as well as distance
vision. This involves the dominant eye, being adjusted for distance viewing.
Correction of the other eye is done for near viewing.
5. 2. Multifocal Lens
A popular choice is a multifocal lens. It gives a chance to the user to view from a
closer range. Also, it provides an opportunity to correct Presbyopia. In most
cases, you will not need to use glasses after cataract surgical procedures.
Multifocal IOLs require an adjustment period because the brain must be trained
to select needed vision information for either near or distant objects.
6. 3. Toric Lens
Another type of premium lens worth mentioning is a Toric IOL. This design is
devised for the correction of astigmatism disorders. Astigmatism is a refractive
disorder that blurs vision due to the irregularly shaped cornea of the eye. If you
have minor astigmatism, a Toric lens will be beneficial.
The main advantage of using Toric Lens is that it reduces the risk of eye surgery
complications such as light sensitivity.
7. Pricing Structure of IOL
When choosing IOLs, the pricing structure is an important consideration. In
general, cataract surgery is covered by insurance. However, not all kinds of IOL
are covered. Only the Monofocal IOL is covered by insurance. Since, Multifocal
and Toric lenses fall under the premium category, most insurance would not
cover these costs and it will be an additional out-of-pocket expense for you.
8. Talk to the Doctor
Seek an initial consultation with the doctors of any reputed laser eye centre in
Delhi. A prudent approach is to conduct comprehensive research on the internet
to obtain the names of leading clinics specializing in eye care treatments. They
should have several years of experience in the implanting of these lenses.
You will need to exercise a cautious approach while selecting an IOL. Before
making a selection, you will have to consider your lifestyle. Individuals who lead
active lives may not want to wear glasses after their cataract procedure.
Determine your requirements first. You may want to avail of options
that will give you a scope to see effortlessly.