Multifocal IOL
- Multi-focal Lens Procedure for Cataract Surgery Patients
- What is presbyopia?
- How does multi-focal lens differ from conventional mono-focal lens?
- Will I still need reading glasses after the multi-focal lens procedure?
- Does the multi-focal lens require an adjustment period?
- When will I see my best after the multi-focal lens implant?
- Does my insurance cover the multi-focal lens implant procedure?
Multi-focal Lens Procedure for Cataract Surgery Patients
What is presbyopia?
When you reach the age of forties, you may have noticed that you experienced blurry near vision because of the natural aging of the human eye. This condition is called presbyopia, many people have to hold objects farther and farther away in order to read. Many people have to wear a pair of reading glasses or bifocals after cataract surgery.
Whether you are near-sightedness, far-sightedness or had perfect vision all your life, presbyopia will affect your reading ability.
How does multi-focal lens differ from conventional mono-focal lens?
For many years now, cataract surgery patients have had the ability of improving their distance vision through the implant of a mono-focal lens, but they had to rely on reading glasses to see objects that are near. That is, until recently, thru technological advancements, multi-focal lens became available. Multi-focal lenses give cataract surgery patients a full range of vision to reduce their reliance on reading glasses.
Will I still need reading glasses after the multi-focal lens procedure?
Clinical study shows that 80% of patients receiving the multi-focal lens implant does not need reading glasses for most of the daily activities such as reading, computer work and driving. Most patients need reading glasses for reading fine print or for prolonged reading.
Does the multi-focal lens require an adjustment period?
Yes. Most people need a few weeks for the brain learn to see “close up” and “distance” vision with the new lens. This adjustment period is 6-12 weeks for the majority of the patients.
Also, some patients report glare or halo around lights after the multi-focal lens implant, this will usually diminish over time. For most patients, having the ability to see near, intermediate and far without glasses outweighs these side effects.
Patients can usually reduce the adjustment period by scheduling the multi-focal lens implant in both eyes, one to two weeks apart.
When will I see my best after the multi-focal lens implant?
The Multi-focal lens implant is just like any other procedures, the result depends on your overall health of the eye. Usually the patient will notice better vision on the same day and continue to improve few weeks after the procedure.
Does my insurance cover the multi-focal lens implant procedure?
Most insurances, like Medicare or private insurance will only cover the basic cataract surgery procedure with the conventional (mono-focal) lens. If patients choose to do a multi-focal lens implant, they will have to cover the additional costs that are not covered by their insurance.
Please ask Dr. Fong or his staff if multi-focal lens is right for you.
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