Before or after surgery there are options to consider for your lens implant. There are monofocal, multifocal, accomodating, extended depth of focus and toric lenses. The best option is to have a detailed discussion with your doctor regarding the options before surgery. If your surgeon is not familiar or skilled in the latest IOL (intraocular lens) options, you may consider your options of selecting another more experienced surgeon for cataractsurgery in Las Vegas. We are experts on the latest multifocal lens technology (PanOptix and Vivity by Alcon and Synergy by Johnson and Johnson). Just ask and we will educate you on all your options!
I have often been asked, Can the IOL be replaced or exchanged?
Although the old natural lens cannot be put back in, the lens can be exchanged. If the implant power left you with poor distance vision and you saw better before surgery a lens that simulates your prescription with your natural lens can be implanted. It is always best to do this at the time of the initial surgery. If not it can be exchanged after the initial implantation. This is discouraged as there are possiblilities of complications with each surgery. Sometimes an exchange is technically difficult, especially if the lens has been in your eye over 3 months or if you have had a complicated surgery with a tear in the posterior capsule or if the capsule has been opened with the YAG laser.
If you choose to replace the lens, you should consider carefully the options for your lens. There are lenses that correct near, far, intermediate and astigmatism as well as those that are designed to correct all of these conditions. There are lenses that are designed to focus for all distances. These lenses are designed to accomodate (correct a range of distances) that also correct astigmatism. The multifocal lenses can correct distance as well as computer distance or closer distances.
Some work better in dim light, most multifocal lenses have some unwanted visual images (halos) but these seem to be insignificant over time for most patients. Other options would be to put another lens on top of your lens (piggyback), wear glasses or contact lenses, or have laser vision correction (LASIK, PRK) to improve your vision. Only a detailed discussion with a skilled surgeon will allow you to best explore all of your options.
