Advancements in IOL technology mean that there are lenses available that can correct a range of vision problems and meet a variety of patient needs. The eye doctors at Parkhurst NuVision are dedicated to evaluating each individual cataract patient and customizing the IOL choice that is best for YOUR vision, unique eyes, and lifestyle.
Intraocular Lens Options (IOLs)
in San Antonio, TX
At Parkhurst NuVision, we are passionate about helping people see better at every stage of life. Cataracts are a normal part of aging vision; they characterize what we call the third vision milestone. You may initially feel frustrated about developing blurry vision due to cataracts, but you will be excited when you learn about all the vision correction options that are available from our San Antonio cataract surgeons.
"I can confidently recommend Parkhurst NuVision for cataract and laser assisted IOL surgery."
JamesWhat Is an Intraocular Lens (IOL)?
When you have cataract surgery, the “cataract”—your eye’s cloudy lens—is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This is an intraocular lens, commonly called an IOL. The earliest versions of the modern IOL date back to World War II, but the last few decades have brought a flurry of innovation and today there are more options than ever!
The team at Parkhurst NuVision performs laser cataract surgery with a wide variety of IOL options in order to achieve vastly improved post-surgical vision. Many patients who previously wore glasses or contact lenses experience the best vision of their lives after cataract surgery!
Types of IOLs
Single-Focus Lenses
Monofocal lenses are also known as single-distance or “basic” lenses. Monofocal IOLs are usually covered by your health insurance or Medicare once your cataract progresses to the point that surgery is deemed necessary.
These lenses can only correct vision at one distance, which means that most people who get a monofocal IOL will still need some type of corrective eyewear after surgery. Depending on your vision before cataracts, you may need reading glasses, progressive or bifocal glasses or contacts in order to enjoy a full range of clear sight.
Accommodating IOLs
Accommodating lenses are designed to change focus between near and far distances, with the goal of reducing the need for reading glasses by physically zooming and focusing within the eye itself. The team at Parkhurst NuVision is currently involved in an exciting clinical trial for a new type of accommodating IOL that may restore vision at multiple distances with crisper, more precise vision correction than previous generations of accommodating IOLs.
Multifocal and Trifocal IOLs
Multifocal lenses are “premium” IOLs that correct vision over multiple distances. By focusing different areas of the lens on different distances, these IOLs enable clear vision both close-up and far away.
Most multifocal IOLs are bifocals, which means that they have two different areas of focus in different parts of the lens. As a result, “medium-distance” activities like cooking or working on the computer may require eyewear to improve the ability to see clearly. Newer trifocal lenses correct close, mid-distance, and far vision so patients may eliminate the need for glasses completely.
Extended Depth of Focus IOLs (EDOF)
Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses are intended to provide a smooth transition between vision over intermediate to long distances. These lenses are best for people who desire crisp, clear distance and mid-range vision, and don’t need to do as much close-up focusing in their day-to-day life, as well as people who do a lot of nighttime driving.
Light Adjusting Lenses (LAL)
The Light Adjustable Lens™ from RxSight® (LAL) is an innovative IOL that is the only lens that can be adjusted after surgery to allow for a precisely customized prescription. Patients who receive this lens will come in for several quick, painless UV light treatments in the weeks after surgery. It is necessary to wear UV-protective glasses until your lens prescription is finalized. The LAL can provide accurate vision that enables many patients to eliminate the need for glasses after surgery.
My cataract and lens replacement was a huge success with Nuvision. I highly recommend them! Totally amazing what they can do for your vision!
KathyAll my fears were vanished. I had cataract surgery with a trifocal lens and now I can read the Netflix preview of movies! Easy!
K.M. F.Choosing the Right IOL For You
Our team of experienced eye doctors and cataract surgeons have helped thousands of people from San Antonio and beyond enjoy better vision after cataract surgery. A unique benefit of choosing Parkhurst NuVision is access to the latest advances in IOL technology. We are actively involved in clinical trials, which means we are often able to offer new vision correction techniques and advanced lenses before they are available to the public. Our patients feel good knowing that they are trusting their eyes to vision experts who are helping advance the field of eyecare.
When it comes to your vision, we’ll take the time to evaluate your needs and discuss your concerns and goals in order to find the IOL that can improve your vision and your quality of life. Contact us with any questions or to schedule your consultation appointment.
Ready for clear vision and freedom from glasses and contacts?
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