4 Things to Think About When Deciding on an IOL

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Posted by: Missouri Eye Institute in Blog on April 5, 2023

Deciding on your IOL is one of the most important decisions you will make regarding cataract surgery. An intraocular lens, or IOL, replaces the natural lens inside your eye after it has been removed during cataract surgery. 

It is directly responsible for your ability to see, so you’ll want to choose one carefully. Keep reading to learn four things to consider when talking with your ophthalmologist during your cataract screening and deciding on an IOL!

1. Your Options

Before you make any decision, it’s important to know what all of your options are. First, there are two basic categories of IOLs: standard and premium. 

Standard IOLs are also known as monofocal IOLs, meaning they only provide focus at one range of distance. With standard IOLs, you need glasses to compensate for either near or distant sight. 

Premium IOLs are capable of providing excellent vision up close, far away, and at intermediary distances. While they don’t always eliminate the need for glasses, they often do, and at the very least, reduce your dependence. 

There are different types of premium IOLs as well. The way that they work determines the type of premium IOL. 

Schedule a cataract evaluation at Missouri Eye Institute in Branson, Missouri, to find out what brands of IOLs are available, what the specific differences are, and which are best suited for you. 

2. Your Budget

The cost of the IOL and what you can afford should absolutely be considered. Standard IOLs are always going to cost less than premium IOLs. 

If you don’t mind needing glasses for certain activities after cataract surgery, then monofocal IOLs may work for you. If you find glasses affect your lifestyle too much, then premium IOLs may be worth the expense. 

While most insurance plans cover monofocal IOLs, you will likely need to pay extra for a premium IOL. Feel free to express your financial concerns with your eye doctor to see what options are available.

3. Your Lifestyle   

Your vision affects the way you live your life. Poor vision limits what you can safely do and may make you miss out. 

Standard IOLs work well for people who don’t mind relying on glasses. Premium IOLs are excellent for the people who are bothered by glasses and want to maintain an active lifestyle.     

4. Your Eye Doctor’s Recommendations

While deciding on your IOL, it’s best to get advice from your eye doctor. It is important that you trust your ophthalmologist through this process.

Eye care is a team effort, so make sure you are both on the same page. Your eye doctor will walk you through your different IOL options and make recommendations based on your unique budget, vision goals, and lifestyle. 

Although the decision will ultimately be left up to you, it’s important to weigh your eye doctor’s recommendations as well. Your eye doctor will allow you some time to decide which IOL you want to replace your natural lens. 

While you are selecting an IOL, weigh all of these factors and do your research so you can be confident in your choice. No matter which lens you choose, life will be much clearer without the bothersome symptoms caused by cataracts!

Do you want expert advice on which IOL may be best for you? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Missouri Eye Institute in Branson, MO, today!