Post-Cataract Surgery Lenses: What to Expect From Your New Intraocular Lens

If you're considering cataract surgery, one of the most important choices you'll need to make is what kind of intraocular lens (IOL) you'll have placed. Fortunately, you don't have to make that decision alone. Another thing to be excited about is that IOLs have advanced dramatically over the years, offering not only improved vision but also the potential to correct pre-existing vision issues like astigmatism and presbyopia.

At Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley (OAV) in Los Angeles, CA, our team of board-certified ophthalmologists provides a complete range of IOL solutions for patients undergoing cataract surgery and will guide you through the entire process of surgery for cataracts, including helping you select which type of IOL is right for you and guiding you through what to expect during and after cataract surgery.

What happens during cataract surgery?

During cataract surgery, the eye's clouded, natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial IOL. These lenses function similarly to the natural lens, but many modern IOLs have the added advantage of improving or correcting vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

Which kind of IOL should I get for my cataract surgery?

Choosing the right IOL is a collaborative process between you and your ophthalmologist. At OAV, we take into account several factors during your consultation, including your daily activities, the importance of reducing your dependence on glasses, and any pre-existing vision issues you may have. During your lens calculations, sophisticated lasers and computers will analyze your eyes, allowing us to customize the IOL selection based on your eye health, visual acuity, and lifestyle.

What is a comparison of different types of cataract lenses?

Cataract surgery patients typically choose between standard IOLs, which are covered by insurance, and premium IOLs, which can reduce the need for glasses. At OAV, we offer several options:

Toric IOLs

Toric IOLs are specifically designed for patients with astigmatism, a condition where the cornea is shaped more like a football than a baseball with two different curves on the surface. These lenses correct astigmatism by providing different powers in various parts of the lens, offering patients clearer vision at distance.

Symfony-Extended Depth of Focus IOLs

The Tecnis Symfony lens is an extended-depth-of-focus IOL, which offers excellent distance and intermediate vision. Unlike multifocal lenses, the Symfony IOL provides a continuous range of focus without splitting light into distinct focal points. This lens is ideal for patients who want to reduce their dependency on glasses, though they may still need reading glasses for fine print or prolonged close-up work.

PanOptix Multifocal IOLs

A newer IOL option, the PanOptix lens, is a multifocal IOL that allows for clear vision at multiple distances — far, intermediate, and near. This lens reduces the need for glasses and offers patients better near vision compared to other IOLs. Patients can perform daily tasks like reading and using electronic devices without the constant need for reading glasses.

Monovision or Blended Vision

Monovision, also known as blended vision, is an option for patients with presbyopia. This condition, which commonly occurs after age 45, affects the eye's ability to focus on close objects. With monovision, one eye is corrected for distance vision, while the other eye is corrected for intermediate or near vision, allowing the brain to adapt and create a balance between the two.

Will my vision be clear after cataract surgery?

After cataract surgery, you can expect clearer vision and, in many cases, reduced reliance on glasses. Results are typically long-term, though some patients may develop a condition known as posterior capsular opacification (PCO) or "secondary cataract." This occurs when a cloudy layer forms near the lens implant, but it can easily be treated with a YAG laser procedure in our office. Our team will provide detailed instructions for postoperative care after cataracts and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure you can enjoy clearer vision with your new IOLs for as long as possible.

Clear up cataracts and sharpen your vision overall with premium IOLs in Los Angeles, CA

Whether you choose a standard IOL or a premium lens for cataract surgery, you can trust our knowledgeable, board-certified ophthalmologists near Los Angeles, CA to guide you through the process of surgery for cataracts with care and precision. Contact our friendly team at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley to learn more about your IOL options and to schedule your consultation for Los Angeles cataract surgery today.