Multifocal / Toric Lens Implant

What are multifocal and toric lens implants?

A multifocal lens implant is a special artificial lens that can be implanted in cataract surgery. Unlike standard or “monofocal” implant lenses which provide either distance or near vision, but not both, multifocal lenses allow you to see clearly at near, middle, and far distances. Toric lenses correct astigmatism, which is due to an uneven curve in your cornea or lens, or an abnormal shape of the eyeball itself. Regular toric lenses provide sharp vision at either distance or up close for patients with astigmatism. There are also multifocal toric lenses, which correct astigmatism and improve vision at distance and near. Eye Surgeons Associates offers standard monofocal, toric, and multifocal lenses to meet your vision needs. Talk to your ophthalmologist about your expectations for cataract surgery.

Why would I need a multifocal toric lens implant?

You may consider having a multifocal or multifocal toric lens implanted if you wish to decrease your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Many people are able to complete most of their daily activities without glasses or contacts after multifocal lens implantation.

How is a multifocal toric lens implanted?

Intraocular lenses are implanted during cataract surgery, which is an outpatient procedure. Most patients receive intravenous sedation to keep them comfortable and relaxed during surgery.

The team at Eye Surgeons Associates uses state-of-the-art techniques, including phacoemulsification or laser surgery, to access and remove your cataract or cloudy lens. Then they insert and position your multifocal toric lens implant behind your iris and pupil. Usually no stitches are necessary. In most cases, the surgery takes around 15 minutes per eye. One eye is done at a time.

What should I expect after a multifocal toric lens is implanted?

After your surgery, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home. In fact, you shouldn’t drive until you have a follow-up appointment at Eye Surgeons Associates to confirm that your vision is clear enough to drive.

Your ophthalmologist gives you medicated eye drops to help your eyes heal. You should also wear a protective eye shield while you sleep for at least a week after your surgery. Your vision may be blurry to begin with, but as time passes and your eyes heal, your vision becomes clearer.

If you need an intraocular lens transplant but also have astigmatism or need multiple corrective lens prescriptions, call Eye Surgeons Associates to find out if multifocal toric lens implants are right for you.