Customized Cataract Surgery
One of the challenges of modern cataract or refractive surgery is making the best choice for each patient in order to meet the individual needs or preferences in correcting both distance and near vision. It is important for a patient to determine their particular needs and preferences with the assistance of their ophthalmologist. Dr. Croley, in Ocala, FL specializes in eye treatments and will educate you so you are empowered to make the best choices in regards to your vision.
Lens choice (can anyone have a Multifocal IOL)?
Technological advancements have allowed us to offer our patients the opportunity to have a full range of vision, minimizing or possibly eliminating dependency on glasses for distance as well as reading. Dr. Croley, in Ocala, uses premium lenses in order to achieve the best possible results for our patients.
- A Multifocal IOL is designed with multiple powers so that you can see well at a variety of distances; be it near, mid-distance or far. For instance, when golfing you may be able to see where your drive lands, sink your putt, and write down the score all without the need for glasses.
- A Monofocal IOL provides vision at one focal point; usually distance. Patients will need glasses for reading, computer and close up work
What is a Multifocal IOL?
The Multifocal IOL is a clear, foldable lens, similar to a contact lens that is implanted inside the eye through a micro-incision. During the procedure, the natural lens of your eye is removed and the Multifocal IOL replaces it. The entire procedure takes approximately 15 minutes and vision is restored immediately in most cases; however vision usually continues to improve in the weeks following the procedure, as you adjust. Most patients have Multifocal IOLs in both eyes for best vision and function. Your brain may not adjust to a Multifocal IOL in only one eye.
The lens is designed with multiple powers so that you can see well at a variety of distances. It allows most people to see well anywhere. For instance, when shopping, you may be able to read the aisle signs and the package labels, as well as count your change without glasses.
In clinical studies, 80% – 92% of patients receiving the Multifocal IOL reported that they never wear glasses for any activity. With the Multifocal lens they can read a book, work on the computer, drive a car – day or night – and play golf or tennis all without glasses.
Are Multifocal IOLs for me?
This answer is different for everyone. Having a multifocal is not only dependent on your medical conditions and eye health. It is strongly dependent on your activities, individual needs and most importantly your personality. That is why it is vital that all patients be informed prior to this surgery as with any surgical procedure.
Why Do I Need an Intraocular Lens after Cataract Surgery?
When you undergo cataract surgery, Dr. Croley removes the natural lens of your eye. This is done because cataracts are clumps of protein that have developed within the lens. Your intraocular lens takes over for the natural lens, fulfilling three important functions. The lens in each of your eyes, along with the cornea, must be completely clear in order for light to pass through to the retina. The transference of light rays onto this piece of tissue at the back of the eye is what forms vision. The lens also provides the necessary structure for the vitreous gel that fills the center of the eye. Finally, and where we customize your lens, the IOL provides focusing power so you can see clearly. It's not possible to see clearly, nor to preserve healthy eyes, without replacing the cataract-ridden lens. Fortunately, because IOLs are very thin, you won't even notice that you have an artificial structure in place of your old, clouded lens.
Are there Alternatives to Multifocal Lenses?
When you plan your cataract surgery, you get to explore several options for lenses that will provide you with crisp, clear vision. Standard lenses are called monofocal intraocular lenses. The monofocal lens is powered to one distance, either near or far. Dr. Croley can recommend an appropriate power for you based on your typical usage. For example, if you read a lot or perform up-close work, you may benefit from a monofocal lens set to near vision. Conversely, if you spend more time looking farther away, you might choose a monofocal lens powered for distance vision. In some cases, patients choose a near monofocal power in one eye and a distance monofocal power in the other. This can take some getting used to but ultimately may provide clearer vision across the board.
What are the Advantages of a Multifocal IOL over a Standard IOL?
It is important to us that you receive all of the information that you need to choose the intraocular lens that will help you live your best life! Multifocal lenses offer a number of rewards over standard monofocal lenses. The primary benefit is that you are much less likely to need to wear glasses with a multifocal lens. This type of lens is like having an implanted bifocal contact lens, enabling you to see near and far with much more clarity. Having less reliance on eyeglasses or contact lenses, you may gain more freedom to engage in activities that once felt uncomfortable due to glasses sliding down your nose or other symptoms. Finally, there is nothing that you need to do to care for your new IOLs. There is no cleaning or upkeep needed.
How Long Will it Take for Me to Get Used to My Multifocal IOL?
You may need at least a few days to get used to your new multifocal vision after cataract surgery. This is primarily because the lens of the eye affects how light lands on the retina. The retina then passes signals through the optic nerve to the brain to interpret them as visual objects. After this passage of light through the eye changes with the new IOL, the brain needs to adapt. This is referred to as neural adaptation. In most cases, we see a nice transition into visual clarity within a week or two. That said, it can take up to several months for this to happen.
Why choose Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala and Dr. Thomas L. Croley for your surgical procedure?
- Dr. Croley was one of the first to be involved in the FDA studies for multifocal implant lenses beginning in 1991.
- Dr. Croley provides the most advanced procedures and technology used to diagnose and treat eye disorders all here at one convenient location.
- Dr. Croley provides state-of-the-art equipment for safe, accurate procedures and is the only one to use this precision equipment.
- Dr. Croley is a board certified surgeon with over 25 years of experience.
- Dr. Croley is committed to bringing you the care you deserve and believes the patient is his #1 priority.
- Dr. Croley established Central Florida Eye Institute in 1989 to provide the best in eye care to our Ocala and Marion County community.
- Central Florida Eye Institute is a AAAHC accredited facility.
Contact Us!
Central Florida Eye Institute proudly provides the Ocala, Gainesville, Lady Lake, Leesburg, and Inverness, Florida area with multi-focal refractive lenses. For more information call (352) 237-8400 or visit our Contact Us page to request a consultation today!