Intraocular Lenses

Distorted or clouded eyesight can make your daily activities difficult or even impossible to complete on your own. If you suffer from cataracts or moderate to severe nearsightedness, intraocular lenses (IOLs) can correct your vision. IOLs are synthetic lenses that replace or enhance your natural lens for improved vision. There are many types of IOLs, so our ophthalmologists will work with you to ensure your lens is appropriate for your condition and treatment goals. IOLs can dramatically improve the function of your eyes so you can feel more confident and see more clearly. Cataract surgery has also been shown to improve dementia and reduce your risk of falling. To schedule a consultation and learn more about IOLs, contact our Olathe or Leawood office today.

IOLs for Cataracts

Since they were first introduced over sixty years ago, IOLs have advanced in their design, capabilities, and uses. We implant IOLs during cataract surgery to replace the clouded lens after it has been fragmented and removed. Depending on your needs, we will recommend different types of IOLs.

Standard IOLs

Also called traditional IOLs, these lenses are monofocal, meaning each lens can only focus your vision for either distance or near, but not both at the same time. The traditional IOL gives you excellent vision, but you are still dependent on glasses at times. The cost of monofocal IOLs is typically covered by medical insurance.

Some patients opt for monovision—meaning one eye sees well in the distance and the other eye sees for near. These patients are much less dependent on glasses or do not require glasses at all.

For standard IOLs, we use the TECNIS® Monofocal IOL or the Alcon AcrySof® IOL, which are both thin and durable.

Advanced Technology IOLs

In addition to replacing your diseased lens, advanced technology IOLs can correct existing vision problems or provide improved vision after cataract surgery. With the TECNIS® Multifocal IOL or AcrySof® IQ ReSTOR® Multifocal IOL, patients are usually able to see clearly at a wider range of distances because these lenses can focus both near and far. In fact, over 90% of patients do not need glasses after they receive a premium IOL. Our surgeons can also use Alcon’s AcrySof® IQ Toric IOL to correct astigmatism.

Phakic IOLs

We may recommend another type of artificial lens, phakic IOLs, for patients with moderate to severe myopia (nearsightedness). This treatment option may be right for you if you are not a candidate for LASIK due to the degree of your visual error, cornea shape, or other ocular issues. Unlike the IOLs used in cataract surgery, phakic IOLs do not require the removal of the natural lens. Your surgeon will place this IOL either directly behind your iris or between your iris and cornea.

Choosing Your IOL

In addition to our surgeons’ expertise, Grin Eye Care has an advanced IOLMaster® machine, which measures the eye using optical biometry to determine which type of IOL will work best for you. This machine is noninvasive and precise. During a cataract evaluation, you will discuss your personal visual needs and collaborate with your surgeon to decide which IOL is best for you.

Reclaim Your Eyesight Today

Interested in learning more about how IOLs can help you? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors in Olathe or Leawood.