Intraocular lens (IOL) surgery is a procedure that replaces your natural lens with an artificial lens and is typically performed on people who are suffering from cataracts. This procedure may be necessary to regain visual acuity if you have visual problems.
If intraocular lens surgery looks like something that can help you with your vision, then it is vital to understand how the procedure is performed.
How Is IOL Surgery Performed?
IOL surgery is performed by making a small incision in the cornea and removing the damaged or clouded lens. The new artificial intraocular lens is inserted through the incision and positioned correctly.
How Do I Know If I Need IOL Surgery?
IOL surgery is typically performed on people who have undergone cataract-removal surgery. This is because the entire lens is extracted from the eye during cataract-removal surgery.
However, IOL surgery can be used to enhance your vision for other reasons as well. This is often called refractive lens exchange surgery and is utilized by people looking to improve their vision but are not candidates for LASIK.
Types of Intraocular Lens
Monofocal
This is the most commonly used lens in an IOL replacement surgery. These lenses allow people to see more clearly at a specific distance. Usually, when these lenses are used, the distance is set further away so that the patient can see things that are further away more clearly.
Toric Lens
Toric lenses are used to correct astigmatism, an eye condition caused by an irregular shape in the cornea. Since toric lenses can correct vision at varying distances, it is a perfect solution for people who have astigmatism.
Multifocal
These lenses offer multiple focal points and improve visual acuity at different distances. When used, they can often limit or remove the need to wear glasses altogether.
Get Your New Lenses With Dr. W. John Murrell
Dr. W. John Murrell is a board-certified ophthalmologist in Amarillo, TX, specializing in cataracts and oculoplastics. He has extensive experience in the medical field, with over 35 years of work in his private practice.
If you want to work with Dr. W. John Murrell, call us at 800-782-6393 or fill out our contact form online to schedule a consultation.
