Cataract Surgery: Know Your Options

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the United States. There are a variety of options to consider when it comes to cataract surgery. When you are seen for a cataract consultation in our Glendale or West Covina office, your doctor will make a recommendation based on the eye examination results, as well as your vision goals after surgery. 

 

 

There are 3 major categories of lenses based on your vision goals:

1. Monofocal Lens: this standard lens replaces the cloudy cataract with a clear lens and provides a clear focus at one distance, most commonly  for distance.  With this lens, glasses are required for intermediate and near vision. If you have a significant amount of astigmatism, you may still need glasses for all visual tasks.  The cost of this lens is covered by all medical insurances that cover cataract surgery.
2. Astigmatism-correcting (Toric) Monofocal Lens: this lens corrects astigmatism, reducing the need for glasses at distance. Intermediate and near visual tasks will require glasses. Considered a “premium” monofocal lens, the additional cost of this type of lens is not covered by medical insurance.
3. Multifocal Lens: this lens reduces your dependence on glasses for distance, intermediate and near vision. This lens is a good option for people who have healthy eyes and would like to reduce their dependence on glasses for all tasks.  Most available multifocal lenses can also correct astigmatism.  Considered a “premium” lens, the additional cost of this type of lens is not covered by medical insurance.

Which lens should I choose?