
What are the types of intraocular lenses that exist?
14 September 2023
Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are devices used to replace the eye's natural lens when it becomes opaque due to a cataract or other vision problems. The lens is the part of the eye that is responsible for focusing light on the retina so that we can see clearly. When the lens becomes cloudy, vision becomes blurred and visual quality decreases.
Intraocular lenses are implanted during cataract surgery, which is a common and safe procedure. During surgery, the ophthalmologist removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an intraocular lens. These lenses are small and designed to stay inside the eye permanently.
There are different types of intraocular lenses, and the choice of type will depend on the individual needs of the patient. Some of the most common types include:
- Aspheric monofocal lenses that correct cataract, myopia and hyperopia. They allow a single focus point, for example, for far distance vision. For intermediate distance (vision of 60 to 70 centimeters) and near distance (vision of 33 to 40 centimeters) the patient will have to wear glasses after cataract surgery.
- Toric aspheric lenses that correct astigmatism, as well as hyperopia and myopia. These lenses give good focusing vision for far distance, but for intermediate and near distance the patient will have to wear glasses after cataract surgery.
- Trifocal aspheric intraocular lenses that correct cataract and presbyopia, that is, the patient will be able to see in the distance, in intermediate and near vision, without having to wear glasses or glasses (or use them on minimal occasions) after surgery.
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) intraocular lenses that correct the cataract allowing good vision at far distance, vision of objects at intermediate distance and functional vision for things of moderate size and for close objects, but The patient will need glasses when he or she has to see small objects and read small print.