Lens Options
Cataracts are clouding of our natural lens and are a normal part of the aging process. As the cataract grows, it blurs our vision and/or creates glare that can impair nighttime driving.
Cataracts can only be treated by surgically removing the cataract and then replacing it with an intra-ocular lens (IOL). There are many advanced technologies available to Kearney Eye Institute patients to reduce their dependence on glasses. These technologies include the most advanced pre-operative testing and diagnostic modalities. It also includes the most advanced intra-operative technologies such as ORA (Optiwave Refractive Analysis), astigmatism-correcting incisions, and the most advanced technology IOLs available.
Cataract Surgery Packages
All-Vision Package
- Reduced dependence on glasses/contacts
- Far, intermediate, and near vision
- Astigmatism-correction
- Best chance for freedom from glasses!
- May experience halos around lights
Best Two-Distance Vision Package
- Reduced dependence on glasses/contacts
- Far and intermediate vision
- Or near and intermediate vision
- Astigmatism-correction
- Will need glasses/contacts for other distances
Best One-Distance Vision Package
- Reduced dependence on glasses/contacts
- Either far, intermediate, or near
- Astigmatism-correction
- Will need glasses/contacts for other distances
Traditional Package
- Standard single vision IOL
- Covered by insurance
- Will need glasses/contacts
* Co-payments and deductibles will apply. Financing available.
** Surgeon customizes the treatment plan for each patient. Not covered by insurance.
Cataracts & Glaucoma
For patients with both cataracts and glaucoma, an additional IOP (intraocular pressure) lowering device can be implanted at the same time as cataract surgery. The iStent is the smallest device approved by the FDA for implantation into the body. This tiny device is placed within the eye’s internal drain, reducing the pressure. The iStent is covered by insurance, and typically results in patients reducing their eye drop medication due to improved IOP control. Recently, this has also been approved as a stand alone procedure, separate from cataract surgery.
Other Important Cataract Lens Replacement Considerations
In some cases, after healing completely from the cataract lens surgery, some people may need further correction to achieve the best vision possible. Their ophthalmologist may recommend additional surgery to exchange an IOL for another type, implant an additional IOL, or make limbal relaxing incisions in the cornea. Other laser refractive surgery may be recommended in some cases.
People who have had refractive surgery such as LASIK need to be carefully evaluated before getting IOLs because the ability to calculate the correct IOL prescription may be affected by the previous refractive surgery.