Introduction to IOLs (Intraocular Lenses)

Intraocular lenses (often referred to simply as "IOLs" in the ophthalmology world) are the small plastic lens implants used to correct vision after a cataract has been removed. IOLs are generally made of flexible material such as silicone or acrylic glass. While the concept of a piece of plastic inside your eye may cause some hesitation, these materials are safe for implantation in the eye and survive longer than we do! You can think of an IOL as an internal pair of glasses or contact lenses which help to correct your vision. Just like the prescription in your glasses or contact lenses, an IOL contains a target prescription that can correct your vision for distance, mid-range, near vision, or a combination of these. In some cases, IOLs may correct vision such that you no longer need to wear glasses, though this highly depends on any preexisting ocular conditions you may have, the type of IOL you select, and the "prescription" or "target vision" you are aiming for. There are several different types of IOLs available on the market, and we will go over these!

Specific IOL Options: Acrysof IQ (Alcon) Tecnis (Johnson & Johnson) enVista (Bausch & Lomb)

A Standard Single Vision IOL is monofocal, meaning that it can correct for either distance vision, mid-range, or near vision. Some people choose to aim for "monovision," which means one eye is set for distance, and the other eye is set for mid-range (computer) or near vision (reading.) Pros:
👁 Cost covered by insurance
👁 Crisp, clear vision
👁 Minimal glare, haloing

Cons:
👁 May still require glasses
👁 Does not correct for astigmatism

Specific IOL Options: Acrysof IQ Toric IOL (Alcon) TECNIS® Monofocal Toric IOL (Johnson & Johnson)

A Toric Single Vision IOL is similar to a Standard Single Vision IOL in that it is monofocal. The only major difference is that a Toric lens corrects for astigmatism, and there is usually some additional cost not covered by insurance as it is seen as a "nonessential upgrade." For people with astigmatism, a Toric lens may reduce the need for glasses. Pros:
👁 Corrects for astigmatism
👁 Reduced need for glasses

Cons:
👁 Out of pocket cost
👁 May have residual astigmatism
👁 May still require glasses if optimal correction not achieved