Cataract Surgery Lens Options
Monofocal IOL 
A Monofocal IOL will provide a clear focus at one distance and are usually implanted to provide excellent distance vision. Patients with a Monofocal IOL typically require reading glasses for near activities such as reading or sewing.
Multifocal IOL 
A Multifocal IOL is a premium IOL that provides a fuller range of vision with minimal, if any, need for glasses. If you have Astigmatism as well, there is now a combination Multifocal with Astigmatism correcting/Toric IOL.
Most patients who chose a Multifocal IOL find that they can read a book, work on the computer and drive a car day or night usually without the need for glasses. In fact, 78% of patients in a clinical study reported complete freedom from glasses. You may, however, experience some visual disturbances that are unique to this IOL. Approximately, 10-15% of patients implanted with the Multifocal IOL experience mild to moderate halos around lights at night. This disturbance diminishes with time. Additionally, under low lighting conditions, many will require additional light for near activities. Despite these visual disturbances, patients with a Multifocal IOL are so pleased with their vision that over 93% say they would have the Multifocal IOL implanted again.
Astigmatism Correcting/Toric IOL 
The Astigmatism correcting/Toric IOL is a premium IOL is for patients with astigmatism. If you have astigmatism and chose the standard Monofocal IOL, you will need glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery to see clearly because the standard Monofocal IOL does not correct astigmatism. The unique design of the Astigmatism correcting/Toric IOL reduces or eliminates astigmatism and significantly improves uncorrected distance vision.
The Astigmatism correcting/Toric IOL platform has been implanted in over 70 million eyes worldwide. This IOL offers freedom from glasses and/or contact lens for distance vision, however, you will still require glasses for near vision activities.
Dr. Schneider takes a personalized approach with each patient. She will match the appropriate technology for your visual needs.
