Cataract
What lens is used in cataract surgery?
An intraocular lens is a small clear implant that takes the place of your natural lens. It is permanent, does not need cleaning and cannot be felt. Its power is calculated from measurements of your eye before surgery. The type chosen determines which distances are in focus without glasses, and it is decided with your surgeon.
How the power is chosen
The length of the eye and the curvature of the cornea are measured, and a formula calculates the implant power needed for your target focus. The calculation is very good but not exact, so a small residual glasses prescription is common and normal.
Types of implant
- Monofocal, the standard implant, giving clear vision at one distance. Most people set this for distance and use reading glasses
- Toric, which also corrects significant astigmatism, where the cornea is more curved in one direction
- Multifocal or extended range implants, which aim to reduce dependence on glasses but can cause more glare and halos and do not suit every eye
Choosing what suits you
The best choice depends on your eyes, your work and what you value. Someone who reads and sews a great deal has different priorities from someone who drives long distances. Existing conditions such as glaucoma, macular disease or a scarred cornea also influence which implants are suitable.
Your surgeon will explain which options are appropriate for your eyes at the pre-operative assessment. No implant restores the natural focusing ability of a young eye, and no lens can guarantee freedom from glasses.
Frequently asked questions
- Does the implant wear out or need replacing?
- No. It is designed to last for life and does not degrade or need routine replacement.
- Can I feel or see the lens?
- No. It sits inside the eye where the natural lens was, and you cannot feel it or see its edge.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
Care at Standard Eye
Related answers
- What happens during cataract surgery?
- What is recovery like after cataract surgery?
- When should I have cataract surgery?
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