Cataract Surgery Lens Options: Intraocular Lens Implants
For patients suffering from cataracts, surgery is the only treatment option. During cataract surgery, the surgeon removes the patient’s clouded natural lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
There are several types of intraocular lens (IOL) implants available. These include custom lens implants, which can help improve your vision after surgery.
Learn what custom lens implants are, the different types of custom lens implants available, and what you should consider when deciding if a custom lens implant is right for you.
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What is an Intraocular Lens Implant?
A custom lens implant is an artificial lens that is surgically implanted in the eye to replace the natural lens. This procedure is often done as part of cataract surgery – where the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL) implant. They can also be used in refractive lens exchange (RLE) surgery. RLE is where the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and presbyopia.
The custom aspect of the implant refers to the ability to choose a lens with specific features that can address a patient’s unique vision needs. For example, some custom lens implants are designed to correct astigmatism, while others can provide a full range of vision, from near to far distances.
Benefits of Custom Lens Implants
Custom lens implants offer numerous benefits to patients undergoing cataract surgery. These specialized IOLs are designed to improve visual acuity. They often reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses for clear vision.
Studies have shown that multifocal lenses for cataracts can provide good visual acuity at both distance and near vision. These lenses offer a wider range of focus than traditional monofocal lenses.
Custom lenses also offer improved contrast, enhanced overall visual experience, and improved quality of vision. Patients may experience fewer visual side effects with multifocal lens implants compared to traditional monofocal lenses.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Replacement Lens Surgery?
Here are some factors that make someone a good candidate for custom lens implants:
- Whether cataracts are interfering with daily activities
- Overall health
- Desire to reduce their dependence on glasses
It is important to discuss the various options with your qualified eye surgeon. Together you can determine the best custom lens implant for your needs.
The IOL Procedure: What to Expect
The cataract lens implant procedure involves several steps, including pre-operative evaluation, surgery, and post-operative care. Here’s what you need to know about each step:
Evaluation
- The evaluation typically includes a review of medical history, an eye exam, and biometric measurements.
- Additional testing may be used to determine your candidacy. These tests include wavefront aberrometry, lens densitometry, and light-scatter assessments.
Details
- The surgery itself involves removing the cataract and inserting an intraocular lens implant.
- The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, and takes less than an hour to complete.
Care
- Patients are typically monitored closely in the days and weeks following surgery. This will ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
- Eye drops are often prescribed to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- You may need to avoid certain activities, such as swimming or heavy lifting, for a period of time after surgery.
The exact details of the custom lens implant procedure may vary depending on the individual patient’s needs and the specific type of implant being used. You should discuss the procedure in detail with your ophthalmologist to fully understand what to expect.
What Is the Cost and Insurance Coverage for Custom Lens Implants?
Insurance coverage for custom lens implants may vary depending on the type of insurance plan. Medicare typically covers the cost of a standard monofocal IOL for cataract surgery. Additional costs for custom lens implants may not be covered.
Private insurance plans may also have different coverage policies. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine what is covered and what costs they may be responsible for.
Some patients may also be eligible for financing options.
Insurance coverage for custom lens implants may vary depending on the type of insurance plan. Medicare typically covers the cost of a standard monofocal IOL for cataract surgery. Additional costs for custom lens implants may not be covered.
Private insurance plans may also have different coverage policies. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine what is covered and what costs they may be responsible for.
Some patients may also be eligible for financing options.
Types of IOL Implants For Cataract Replacement Lens Surgery
There are several types of lenses for cataract surgery available.
Monofocal IOLs↗
This is the most common type of IOL. The monofocal lens has a single focusing power, which means they can provide clear vision at one distance, usually distance vision. Patients with monofocal IOLs may still need glasses or contact lenses for near vision.
Multifocal IOLs↗
These IOLs have several different focusing powers built into the lens, allowing patients to see clearly at different distances. Some patients with multifocal IOLs may not need glasses or contact lenses after surgery. However, they may experience some glare or halos around lights at night.
Toric IOLs↗
These IOLs are designed to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is a common condition that causes blurry vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea. Toric IOLs have different focusing powers in different parts of the lens. This allows them to correct the distorted vision caused by astigmatism.
Schedule a Consultation With Your Cataract Surgeon
If you are interested in finding out what custom lens implant is right for you, schedule a consultation with the experienced cataract surgeons at Berkeley Eye Center today.
For more than 60 years, Berkeley Eye Center has been providing exceptional eye care services to patients throughout the greater Houston area. Our doctors will work with you to determine which IOL is best for your individual needs. We also offer financing options and accept most major insurance plans.
Cataract IOL FAQs
Which IOL is Covered by Medicare?
Medicare covers IOLs that are deemed medically necessary for cataract surgery. This includes standard monofocal lenses, which correct vision at one distance. Medicare does not typically cover the cost of premium lenses that are designed to correct presbyopia or astigmatism. They are considered elective procedures.
Can I Still Get Custom Lens Implants if I Have Had LASIK Surgery?
In general, having previous LASIK surgery does not disqualify you from getting custom lens implants for cataract surgery. However, it is important to discuss your specific situation with your eye doctor to determine if you are a good candidate.
Can I Choose the Cataract Lens Types of Custom Lens Implant I Want?
Yes, in most cases, patients can choose the type of custom lens replacement they want AFTER discussing their options with their ophthalmologist. However, the decision will depend on various factors, including the patient’s specific vision problems and preferences, lifestyle, and medical history. Ultimately, the decision will be based on what is best for the individual patient.
Is the custom lens implant procedure painful?
During the custom lens implant procedure, patients receive local anesthesia to numb the eye, so they should not feel any pain. Patients may experience some mild discomfort or pressure during the surgery, but it should not be painful. After the procedure, patients may experience some itching or mild discomfort for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
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