Presbyopia Correcting IOLs

Presbyopia is a condition that most people over the age of 40 experience that results in difficulty seeing up close without the aid of bifocals, trifocals, or reading glasses. This age-related condition is believed to be caused by a hardening of the lens inside the eye, making it difficult for the eye’s muscles to change its focus.

Over time, the lens becomes cloudy and develops into a cataract. It is said that, if we live long enough, everyone will develop cataracts. The only way to treat cataracts is to remove and replace it with an Intraocular Lens (IOL).

Until recently, the primary option was to receive a “fixed focus” IOL. Patients who received this type of IOL typically had both eyes corrected for distant vision but usually still required glasses for intermediate and near vision.

If you are experiencing presbyopia or cataracts, you may be a candidate for one of the new technologically-advanced IOLs that can provide a full range of vision. This means that you would be able to read and see clearly in the distance, close up, and everything in-between, with little or no dependence on bifocals, trifocals, or contact lenses.

There are currently three presbyopia correcting IOLs that have been approved by the FDA. These include: the AcrySof® ReSTOR® IOL,  the ReZoom™ Multifocal IOL and the Crystalens® Accommodating IOL.

Each of these multifocal lenses is unique in its optical design and visual advantages. Which one is best for you depends on the unique characteristics of your eye as well as your lifestyle needs. After a thorough eye examination we will make a recommendation as to which of these revolutionary IOLs would be most advantageous for you.

Presbyopia correcting IOLs are not covered by most insurance companies or by Medicare but most people to have one of these IOLs implanted during cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange feel the cost of achieving a full range of vision without dependence on glasses or contacts is well worth the money.