An intraocular lens — or IOL — is a tiny, artificial lens for the eye. It replaces the eye's natural lens that is removed during cataract surgery. The lens bends — refracts — light rays that enter the eye, helping you to see. Your lens should be clear, but if you have a cataract, your lens has become cloudy. Your vision becomes blurry, hazy, or less colorful with a cataract. And, cataract surgery removes this cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear IOL to improve your vision.

IOLs come in different focusing powers, just like prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. Your ophthalmologist will measure the length of your eye and the curve of your cornea; these measurements are used to set your IOLs focusing power.

What Are IOLs Made Of?

Most IOLs are made of silicone or acrylic. They are also coated with a special material to help protect your eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet — UV — rays.

How Do Multifocal & Trifocal IOLs Work?

These IOLs provide both distance and near focus simultaneously. The lens has different zones set at different powers. It is designed so your brain learns to select the right focus automatically. These IOLs reduce your dependence on glasses by giving you clear vision for more than one set distance.

The AcrySof IQ PanOptix® trifocal IOL — the first trifocal lens for cataract surgery patients in the United States — was approved in August of 2019 by the FDA.

PanOptix, which is made by Alcon and already available in over 70 countries, delivers a combination of near, intermediate, and distance vision while significantly reducing the need for glasses after surgery. In a pivotal clinical study in 12 U.S. sites, over 99% of PanOptix patients said they would choose the lens again, demonstrating high patient satisfaction.

What Are Toric IOLs?

For people with astigmatism, there is an IOL called a toric lens. Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an uneven curve in your cornea or lens. The toric lens is designed to correct that refractive error.

What Is a Monofocal IOL?

The most common type of lens used with cataract surgery is called a monofocal IOL. It has one focusing distance. It is set to focus for up-close, medium-range, or distance vision. Most people have them set for clear distance vision. Then, they wear eyeglasses for reading or close work.

How Do You Choose?

As you plan for your cataract surgery, speak with your ophthalmologist about your vision needs and expectations. They will explain IOL options for you in more detail.

Digby Eye Associates are dedicated to optimizing their patient’s vision. If you have been struggling with cataracts or experiencing other eye health issues, reach out to their team of expert eye doctors for help. To schedule your cataract evaluation exam today, please contact the Greensboro office at 336-230-1010 or High Point office at 336-454-2020. You can also learn more about their other services online.

Steven J. Glenn, MD, is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who joined Digby Eye Associates in August 2018. Originally from Utah, he graduated Magna Cum Laude with an undergraduate degree in Physiology and Developmental Biology from Brigham Young University. He received his medical degree from Texas A&M College of Medicine, where he graduated with honors and was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha honor medical society. He then completed a transitional year internship at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System in Spartanburg, South Carolina, followed by Ophthalmology residency at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia.

During his residency, Dr. Glenn served as chief resident and was trained in the latest surgical and medical treatments in ophthalmology, including cataract and refractive surgery, glaucoma, corneal disease, oculoplastics, retinal disease, and neuro-ophthalmology. He is an active member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

He lives in Greensboro, NC, with his wife, Megan, who is a licensed social worker. They have a beautiful baby boy born in October 2018! In his free time, he enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors, photography, and skiing.