An intraocular lens is an artificial lens used to replace the eye’s natural lens and restore clear vision. An intraocular lens is most commonly used during cataract surgery.
There are different types of intraocular lenses. Prior to surgery your ophthalmologist will explain your options and recommend which lens may be best for you and your vision needs. Two of the options that your doctor may discuss are a monofocal intraocular lens and a multifocal intraocular lens. Here, the knowledgeable ophthalmologists at Mack Eye Center explain the difference between a monofocal intraocular lens and a multifocal intraocular lens.
What Is an Intraocular Lens?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. During cataract surgery, the natural lens is removed. This means that in order for vision to be restored, the natural lens needs to be replaced with an artificial lens. The artificial lens that replaces the natural lens during cataract surgery is called an intraocular lens (also referred to as an IOL).
There are different types of intraocular lenses. Choosing an intraocular lens is an important decision that is made prior to surgery. The type of lens that is used during your surgery will depend on your vision needs.
What Is a Monofocal Intraocular Lens?
Mono means one and focal relates to the focus of a lens. A monofocal intraocular lens focuses the light entering the eye at a single distance.
A benefit of this type of lens is that the patient can select the focusing power of the lens. This allows them to choose whether they will have near or far vision. Oftentimes when a patient chooses a monofocal intraocular lens they have it set for distance vision. This means that they have strong distance vision but still rely on eyeglasses for reading or other close activities.
What Is a Multifocal Intraocular Lens?
Multi stands for multiple and focal (as we just discussed) relates to the focus of a lens. The design of a multifocal intraocular lens provides patients with near vision, distance vision and even intermediate vision for everything in between.
There is an adjustment period for patients after they receive a multifocal intraocular lens. The patient may also experience issues while driving at night such as halos, glare and starburst.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Do you want to learn more about the difference between a monofocal intraocular lens and a multifocal intraocular lens? Contact Mack Eye Center today to schedule an appointment.
