If you are familiar with cataract surgery, you probably know that during the procedure, your eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens implant (IOL). But did you know that not all IOLs are created equal? At InVision EyeCare, we offer a “premium” lens option, known as lifestyle lenses. These lenses are designed with special features to go above and beyond a standard IOL. We have three different types of premium intraocular lens implants, each of which delivers on a different promise.
Crystalens is an accommodating lens that restores clear vision at all distances. What is special about this lens is its focusing process, known as accommodation. The lens is designed in such a way to mimic the eye’s natural ability to switch focus between near and far distances. When the eye muscle relaxes, the lens flattens for clear distance vision. When the eye muscle contracts, the lens makes a micro movement for added magnification. This is a unique feature of accommodating lenses, as conventional lenses are designed to stay stationary.
Another benefit of the Crystalens is that it restores clear night vision without visual disturbances like halos and glare. People that drive a lot at night may find this particularly useful.
The major draw of multifocal lenses like ReSTOR and Tecnis is that they restore clear vision at multiple ranges without the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. The lenses are designed to provide distance and near focus at all times; eventually, the brain learns how to automatically select the most appropriate focus. Clear vision is possible under any lighting condition, too.
Traditionally, individuals with astigmatism, or an abnormal curvature of the cornea, were not good candidates for IOLs. If they had a cataract removed, they would need a second procedure to correct their astigmatism. However, the AcrySof Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism during the same cataract removal procedure. The special shape of the toric lens offsets the irregular shape of the astigmatic lens. This restores clear distance vision (note that near vision will not improve and reading glasses are usually required for up-close tasks).
Are you are planning cataract removal and considering your IOL options? For more information about the premium lifestyle lenses available at InVision EyeCare, please contact us today. Call (732) 210-0140 or send us an email.
