Easy Tips for Choosing the Right IOL

The term IOL stands for “Intraocular Lens.” This is the lens that replaces the natural one in your eye during cataract surgery. When contemplating cataract surgery in Columbia, S.C., understanding the different types of IOLs will put your mind at ease.

Consider:

• Your budget. Factor in insurance costs and copays. Luckily, most insurances cover monofocal lenses. These typically allow patients to see at longer distances. They’re also the most commonly prescribed. They allow you to see either closely or from a distance. So, the results will be impacted based on your needs.
• Your screen time. The amount of time you spend in front of a screen during the day affects your vision. Our doctors at the Columbia Eye Center are likely to recommend monofocals if you do. However, multifocal lenses may help if you do not want to depend on reading glasses-less. 
• Your time on the road at night. Many people have jobs that require them to drive at night. If you need night-vision, multifocal lenses may be the best for you. They’re typically the most dramatic in terms of transformation. Since they’re designed for distance vision, they allow you to rely even less on glasses. While all cataract surgery is transformational, some patients still use reading glasses after.
• Your astigmatism. Patients with moderate to advanced astigmatism are typically prescribed with toric IOLs. They’re designed especially to treat astigmatism. The only downfall is that they’re not always covered by insurance.

You will discuss all of your options with your surgeon before your procedure. They’ll make sure you understand the pros and cons of your unique situation. When you’re looking for cataract treatment in Columbia, SC, the doctors at The Eye Center can answer all your questions! Schedule your appointment today, and see the benefits of clear vision.