Multifocal Intraocular Lens

There are many different types of intraocular lenses that Dr. Jong can choose from for your cataract surgery.

Some types of intraocular lenses, known as monofocal IOLs, only allow a patient to focus on objects at a specific, predetermined range. This can lead to patients needing glasses or contact lenses when trying to focus on objects outside of the range allowed by their IOL.

Multifocal IOLs, on the other hand, are meant to allow a patient to focus at multiple different ranges. This enables a patient to see both near and far without needing to use glasses or contact lenses.

Advantages of a Multifocal IOL

The outcome of cataract surgery and the placement of a multifocal IOL is generally positive. 

A majority of patients who receive multifocal IOLs do not need to use glasses or contacts after their operation regardless of the distance on which they are attempting to focus.

When compared to monofocal IOLs, the primary advantage of multifocal IOLs is being able to see clearly at various distances, which means that you might not need to wear glasses or contact lenses after surgery.

Costs

There are many variables when it comes to the costs of cataract surgery and IOL placement. Generally, multifocal IOLs are considered premium lenses. Insurance generally covers the cost of cataract surgery and a basic IOL. You will usually have to cover the difference in price between a standard monofocal IOL and a premium multifocal lens. Because of this, a cataract surgery with a multifocal lens will usually cost around $4,000 per eye.

While multifocal IOLs may be more complicated than other types of intraocular lenses, the surgery required to put them in place is the same as surgery with a standard lens.