Intraocular lenses, commonly referred to as IOLs, are implantable lenses used to replace the eye’s natural crystalline lens during cataract surgery. An IOL will assume the function of the natural lens and will be undetectable. Today, IOLs are available as monofocal lenses (correcting vision for one distance), accommodating lenses (correcting for near, far, and intermediate vision), toric lenses (astigmatism correcting), and multifocal lenses or extended depth of focus lenses (correcting for near, far, and intermediate vision).
Traditional monofocal cataract surgery is covered by insurance, including Medicare. There are some new Medicare rulings that permit cataract patients to select either a standard replacement lens implant or a premium replacement lens implant. Patients may pay privately for the portion of the charges of a premium replacement lens and related technical services that exceeds the benefit for a standard monofocal replacement lens. Ask your doctor how this may affect your specific cataract surgery.
Your surgeon will help you choose the best lens for you based on your desired visual outcome. If you have been suffering from cataracts or poor vision and cataract surgery is an option, you should be aware of a new technology that can help you reduce dependence on glasses and contacts after cataract surgery. The patients of Denver Eye Surgeons now have the option to see at far, near and even intermediate distances after cataract surgery. This was simply not an option until recently. Multifocal or extended depth of focus lenses may enable you to read the newspaper, play golf, and other activities without the hassles of glasses. Not everyone is a candidate for premium lens implants. Our surgeons will work with you to determine the best IOL for you based on your unique lifestyle needs.
