Eye lens transplant surgery is often recommended to correct blurred or clouded vision due to cataracts and if a patient’s everyday activities are limited because of the problem. If both eyes require surgery, the operations are scheduled separately, usually within several weeks of one another.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the eye lens and replaces it with an artificial one while the patient is lightly sedated. The procedure is common and offers excellent results for most patients.
There are four types of implantable lenses from which you can choose for cataract replacement, depending on whether you need or want to wear glasses afterward.
Traditional lens
The surgeon removes the cataract from the eye and replaces it with a standard clear lens to improve the quality of vision. Glasses may be necessary to see far away or to drive. This surgery is covered by most insurance plans after coinsurance and deductibles are paid. A follow-up appointment about three months post-surgery ensures that the procedure was successful.
Distance vision optimized lens
The goal for implanting a distance vision optimized lens is three-fold. This surgery removes the cataract to increase vision capability, corrects astigmatism in the eye, and additionally corrects distance vision. Glasses may be needed for reading and within an arms-length space but are not necessary to see long distances. The latest technology is available for this type of lens and surgery provides an individualized intraocular lens and corneal incisions. Cataract follow-up care is recommended one-year post-surgery.
Near vision optimized lens
Much like the distance vision optimized lens, eye lens transplant surgery for near vision eliminates the cloudy cataract and improves vision with a new lens that modifies near vision and fixes astigmatism. Glasses are necessary to see three-feet away and greater. The technology is state-of-the-art and offers excellent results. Post-operative care in one-year is standard.
Near and distance vision optimized lens
Cataract surgery to correct near and distance vision provides the optimum scenario. The cataract is removed, overall vision increased, and both far and near-sightedness are corrected, in addition to resolving astigmatism. Glasses may be needed for fine print or for reading in low light. The multifocal lens has different zones, like bifocal eyeglass lenses, where light focuses within the eye at varying distances.
Conclusion
Your eye surgeon will be happy to discuss your options for the different types of intraocular lenses available during cataract surgery. While most insurance plans cover traditional lenses, you may pay more for advanced lenses.
Different eye disorders like retinal disease, glaucoma, dry eye, or corneal disease may limit the qualifications for a specific type of intraocular lens and may not permit 20/20 vision. All cataract surgery patients can benefit from minimal use of eyeglasses during the healing process.