What Are My Lens Options for Cataract Surgery?

When considering cataract surgery, you also need to decide what type of intraocular lens you want to replace the natural one. Each lens has a specific purpose depending on your needs and eye health. 

Read on to learn your lens options during cataract surgery with trusted surgeon Dr. Cory Bergman, MD, in Casper, Wyoming, and Rapid City, South Dakota.

Available types of intraocular lens 

There are three types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) available in cataract treatment. These are monofocal lenses, toric lenses, and presbyopia-correcting lenses.

Monofocal lens

Monofocal lenses treat one vision problem, like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or if you have trouble looking at a computer. If you have astigmatism, Dr. Bergman cannot use these to treat your cataracts. 

Typically, you will still wear glasses or other corrective lenses to help treat any other vision problems. An extra benefit of receiving mono-focal lenses is that they do not cause any halos or glare at night, making it safer and more comfortable for you to drive.

Toric lens

If you have astigmatism, toric lenses can replace monofocal lenses. Like monofocal lenses, they only treat a single vision problem like farsightedness, nearsightedness, or intermediate. Unlike monofocal lenses, toric lenses are designed to match the corneal changes that occur with astigmatism. 

Presbyopia-correcting lens

Presbyopia-correcting lenses are not limited to treating only one vision problem. They can treat two or more vision problems, like farsightedness and nearsightedness. 

While presbyopia-correcting lenses often reduce the need for glasses after the surgery, you may still need them. Dr. Bergman works with you to help you figure out what is best for you.

How to choose the right IOL

Choosing the right IOL comes down to what you are comfortable with and what your lifestyle goals are. If you are okay with wearing glasses after your cataract surgery, then monofocal lenses may be the best option. 

Toric lenses are a good choice if you have astigmatism and don't mind wearing glasses after surgery, but you should consider presbyopic-corrective lenses if you’re hoping not to rely on glasses after the surgery. 

Is the surgery different depending on what lens I choose?

Cataract surgery is the same no matter what type of lens you choose to replace the natural one. During the surgery, Dr. Bergman makes a small incision before removing and replacing the cloudy lens with your new lens.

If you are unsure what lenses you should get during your cataract surgery, Dr. Cory Bergman is here to help. Contact us today or schedule an appointment online at either of our offices in Casper, Wyoming, and Rapid City, South Dakota.