Restore clear, focused vision with monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) at Vantage Eye Consultants. These lenses are ideal for enhancing distance vision and providing clarity for everyday activities. Dr. Enoch Nam, our board-certified ophthalmologist, expertly performs the procedure, ensuring reliable, predictable outcomes.
Restore Clear Near or Distance Vision
A monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) is a single-focus lens implanted during cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange (RLE). It is designed to provide clear distance vision and help patients regain the ability to see far-away objects. While it offers excellent vision for activities like driving or watching TV, patients may still need glasses for reading or using a smartphone. Monofocal IOLs are a cost-effective option for restoring clear distance vision, and they minimize visual disturbances like glare and halos, which can sometimes occur with multifocal lenses.
Monofocal Intraocular Lens (IOL) Treats:
- Cataracts (clouding of the natural lens, leading to blurry or dim vision)
- Myopia (nearsightedness, causing difficulty seeing distant objects clearly)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness, causing difficulty seeing close objects clearly)
- Some astigmatism (with the use of a toric IOL)
How Does a Monofocal Intraocular Lens (IOL) Work?
A monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) replaces your eye’s natural lens, which may be clouded due to cataracts, with a synthetic lens that focuses light effectively. The monofocal IOL is designed to focus light at a single, fixed distance, typically set for clear distance vision. This means that after cataract surgery, you will likely experience sharp vision for activities like driving, watching TV, or enjoying outdoor events. However, you may still need glasses for close-up tasks.
Dr. Nam carefully selects the ideal lens power based on your eye’s measurements, ensuring the best visual outcome. During the procedure, the IOL is implanted through a small incision, where it unfolds and becomes securely positioned in place. Over time, your vision will improve as your eye heals and adjusts to the new lens.
Advantages of Monofocal Intraocular Lens (IOL):
- Provides clear, sharp distance vision
- Minimizes visual disturbances like glare and halos
- Offers a straightforward, cost-effective solution
- Typically covered by insurance, including Medicare
- Ideal for patients who want reliable, predictable outcomes
- Reduces the need for post-surgery adjustments
- Enhances quality of life by improving distance vision
- Can be combined with toric lenses to correct mild astigmatism
Monofocal Intraocular Lens (IOL) FAQs
What Is the Difference Between a Monofocal and Multifocal IOL?
A monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) provides clear vision at a single, fixed distance, typically set for far vision. It does not correct near vision, so you may still need reading glasses. In contrast, a multifocal IOL provides clear vision at multiple distances—near, intermediate, and far—reducing the need for glasses at all distances. However, some patients experience visual disturbances like glare or halos with multifocal lenses.
Will I Need Glasses After Receiving a Monofocal IOL?
While a monofocal IOL will provide sharp distance vision, most patients still require glasses for close-up tasks like reading or using a computer. If you have specific needs, such as reading at close distances, Dr. Nam may discuss other lens options suitable for you.
What Happens if I Have Astigmatism?
If you have astigmatism, a standard monofocal IOL can still improve distance vision. However, for patients with moderate to high astigmatism, Dr. Nam may recommend a toric monofocal IOL, which is specially designed to correct astigmatism and cataracts.
Can I Choose the Distance at Which the Monofocal IOL Is Set?
Yes, Dr. Nam will work with you to determine the best focal length for your monofocal IOL. While most patients choose a lens set for distance vision, some opt for a closer distance to reduce their need for reading glasses. However, a monofocal IOL can only focus at one distance, so near vision will typically require glasses if you choose a distance-focused lens.
Restore Clearer Vision With Dr. Nam
At Vantage Eye Consultants, Dr. Enoch Nam, our board-certified ophthalmologist with extensive expertise in cataract and corneal surgery, is dedicated to restoring clearer vision through advanced treatments like monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). Known for his exceptional surgical outcomes and compassionate care, Dr. Nam customizes each procedure to meet the unique needs of his patients. Whether you want to improve distance vision or explore other options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nam today.
