How Do Monofocal Lens Correct Near and Farsighted Vision?
Cataract surgery is designed to improve your eyesight by removing your clouded lens and replacing it with a clear one. Today’s technology also allows cataract patients to correct vision issues through premium intraocular lenses (IOLs). By working with Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center, you can personalize your procedure to address nearsightedness, farsightedness, and more.
Are you ready to learn about your lens options? Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Young H. Choi offers advanced monofocal lens implants for cataracts for Birmingham, AL patients. When you schedule an eye assessment at our clinic, we can discuss refractive cataract surgery as well as monofocal lens pros and cons. Our team hopes to restore your eyesight and provide satisfying results.
What are refractive errors?
A refractive error occurs when the eye bends light improperly on the retina. According to the World Health Organization, millions of people experience some form of refractive error that affects their vision. Fortunately, most people have glasses or contact lenses to correct these errors. Common kinds of refractive errors include:
- Nearsightedness (myopia): inability to see far-away objects clearly
- Farsightedness (hyperopia): inability to see nearby objects clearly
- Presbyopia: inability for people to see nearby objects due to aging
Who should get intraocular lenses?
Candidates for refractive cataract surgery have been diagnosed with mild to severe cataracts and hope to reduce their dependency on glasses. It is important to get an examination first, so Dr. Choi can choose the right intraocular lens for your vision needs. We can also review monofocal lens pros and cons in our office. Our IOL preference depends on your current eye health and visual acuity. During your consultation near Birmingham, AL, please inform our staff if you have eye conditions, such as macular degeneration.
About monofocal lens implants
Monofocal lenses can correct vision at one distance so patients can see clearly. In contrast, a multifocal lens provides vision at varying distances. With a standard monofocal lens, your vision will be clear at either near or far distances. So, if you prefer to see objects more clearly when reading a book or restaurant menu, you may choose a monofocal IOL for farsightedness. On the other hand, individuals who want to read road signs while driving could look into IOLs for nearsightedness.
Will I still need glasses after refractive cataract surgery?
There are many factors that determine if you still need to wear glasses after refractive cataract surgery, including your current prescription. It is not unusual for patients to choose monofocal lens implants to improve distance vision, but still want glasses when reading. This concept also works in reverse. If you choose to improve shortsightedness, you may still require glasses for distance vision. Patients who want the greatest freedom from visual aids possible should ask Dr. Choi about all the options available.
Nearsighted vision correction
Understanding your lens options for cataract surgery is essential before deciding to get refractive cataract surgery. Your overall eye health and prescription both play a big part in determining which IOLS will give you the best results. This is why we ask Birmingham, AL patients to schedule time with Dr. Young H. Choi at the Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center. We can review monofocal lens pros and cons while explaining the process.