Intraocular Lens Implants (IOLs): YOur Guide to Lens-Based Vision Correction
Understanding Lens Implants: Replacing or Augmenting Your Eye's Natural Lens
Intraocular lens implants, commonly referred to as Lens Implants or simply IOLs, are advanced artificial lenses surgically placed inside the eye to correct vision problems. Unlike contact lenses, which sit on the surface of the eye and require daily removal, IOLs become a permanent component of the eye's optical system.
Intraocular Lens implants are referred to as Lens Implants or IOLs. All IOLs involve inserting an artificial lens inside your eye rather than placing it on the surface of the eye like a contact lens. Most lens implant procedures involve replacing your existing lens with a new lens to improve your vision. There are several types of IOLs available to help correct your vision, all of which can also be performed in connection with cataract eye surgery to replace the existing lens in your eye with the exception of Phakic Lens Implants which are inserted between your iris and your natural lens or cataract.
Most lens implant procedures involve replacing your existing natural lens with a new IOL to improve your vision. This is the fundamental principle behind Cataract Surgery (replacing a cloudy natural lens that impairs vision) and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) or Clear Lens Exchange (CLE) (replacing a clear natural lens for the primary purpose of correcting refractive errors). A distinct category is Phakic Lens Implants (such as the EVO ICL), which are inserted into the eye in front of your natural lens, leaving the original lens in place.
Thanks to significant advancements in ophthalmology, a wide variety of FDA-approved IOLs are available today, each designed with different optical properties to address specific vision needs, from correcting basic focus at one distance to providing a full range of vision or correcting complex Astigmatism. All standard IOLs used in RLE/CLE can also be used in Cataract Surgery, and vice versa (with the notable exception of Phakic IOLs, which do not replace a cloudy lens but are instead inserted between your lens and your cornea).
To view a video on standard IOL procedures, please click the "Play" button below. To learn more about lens implant surgery procedures and the types of FDA approved IOLs available in the United States, please read below.
- Overview of Lens Implant Procedures
- Types of Intraocular Lens Implants or IOLs
- Additional Resources
Overview of Lens Implant Procedures
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) or Clear Len Exchange (CLE)
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also widely known as Clear Lens Exchange (CLE), is a type of refractive surgery where the eye's natural lens, which is clear or minimally cloudy (not a visually significant cataract), is surgically removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens implant (IOL). This is the same surgical technique used in Cataract Surgery, but the primary goal of RLE/CLE is to correct significant refractive errors (like high myopia, high hyperopia, or presbyopia) and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
RLE/CLE lens implant procedures are a treatment option for people seeking to correct:
- Moderate to high levels of Astigmatism (blurred vision)
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
- Nearsightedness (Myopia) (Can be especially helpful for people with a high degree of nearsightedness where LASIK or Phakic implants are not suitable procedures)
- Presbyopia (Reading Problems) - Often a primary driver for patients over 50 considering this procedure, as it can provide a range of vision using appropriate IOLs.
Various advanced IOLs (Toric, Multifocal, Accommodating, Monofocal, Light Adjustable Lens, EDOF) are available for RLE/CLE to help achieve desired visual outcomes. The currently approved FDA approved lenses for RLE (Refractive Lensectomy) or CLE (Clear Lensectomy) and Cataract surgery include: Toric Implants, Multifocal Implants, Accommodating Implants and Monofocal Implants which are discussed further below.
Cataract Surgery and IOL Implantation
Cataract Surgery is the most common type of lens implant procedure. It is performed when the natural lens of the eye has become cloudy due to a cataract, causing symptoms that interfere with vision. During cataract eye surgery, the cloudy or cataract lens is surgically removed and replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens implant (IOL).
The primary purpose of cataract surgery is to restore clear vision by removing the opaque lens. However, the implanted IOL also provides refractive power. The cataract surgeon precisely calculates the power of the replacement IOL through detailed measurements of the eye. Various advanced IOLs (Toric, Multifocal, Accommodating, Monofocal, Light Adjustable Lens, EDOF) are available for Cataract Surgery that can not only restore clarity but also correct pre-existing refractive errors like Cataract surgery lens implant procedures are generally available for people who have moderate to high levels of Astigmatism (blurred vision), Farsightedness (Hyperopia), Nearsightedness (Myopia) (can help those with a high degree of nearsightedness where LASIK or Phakic implants are not suitable procedures). Premium IOLs can potentially significantly reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses after surgery.
Cataract surgery lens implant procedures are performed for people who have a visually significant cataract and may also have::
- Moderate to high levels of Astigmatism (blurred vision)
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
- Nearsightedness (Myopia) (Can be especially helpful for people with a high degree of nearsightedness where LASIK or Phakic implants are not suitable procedures)
- Presbyopia
The types of IOLs used in Cataract Surgery are generally the same as those used for RLE/CLE (with the exception of Phakic IOLs).
For a general discussion of cataracts treatments and cataract Surgery (where the cataract is removed and replaced with one of the above lenses, please visit our Cataract Surgery discussion.
Phakic Implant Procedures (including EVO-ICL)
A Phakic Implant Procedure involves surgically placing a special type of intraocular lens implant (IOL) inside the eye in front of the natural lens, which is left in place. This is a key distinction from procedures like Cataract Surgery or RLE/CLE. Phakic IOLs are typically inserted into the space between the cornea and the iris, or between the iris and the natural lens.
Phakic Implants are primarily used to correct moderate to high degrees of Nearsightedness (Myopia) and Astigmatism, often for levels that are too high to be treated effectively or safely with laser eye surgery (LASIK or PRK), or when laser surgery is contraindicated due to factors like thin or abnormally shaped corneas.
Because this refractive surgery procedure is performed inside the eye rather than on the corneal surface, it carries slightly different considerations than laser vision correction.
EVO-ICL
A notable and increasingly popular example of a Phakic Implant is the EVO Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (EVO ICL). Approved by the FDA, the EVO ICL is a flexible artificial lens made from biocompatible Collamer material that is placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. It is a highly effective option for individuals typically aged 21-45 with stable, moderate to high Nearsightedness and Astigmatism who are seeking a reversible LASIK alternative that preserves corneal tissue.
For more detailed information about EVO ICL, and its benefits, candidacy, and the procedure, please visit our dedicated EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery discussion page.
The type of intraocular lens implant (IOL) used in Cataract Surgery or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) / Clear Lens Exchange (CLE) significantly impacts the visual outcome and your potential need for glasses after surgery. While all replace the focusing power of the natural lens, different designs offer distinct visual benefits and address specific refractive errors.
The following types of IOLs are commonly used and FDA-approved for use in the United States:
Monofocal Lens Implants are the most traditional type of IOL. They have a single power and are designed to provide clear vision at a single focal point. Typically, the IOL power is chosen to provide clear distance vision. Patients with monofocal IOLs will generally need glasses for reading and often for intermediate vision (like computer use).
Monofocal IOLs can be used to correct Nearsightedness or Farsightedness at the chosen focal distance. They are also commonly used in monovision, where one eye is corrected more for distance vision and the other eye is corrected more for near vision. Many patients can adapt well to monovision, especially if they have successfully used monovision with contact lenses or achieved it through LASIK or PRK previously.
Because they have a single focus point, monofocal IOLs typically result in less night glare and halos compared to some multifocal designs. Standard monofocal IOLs are usually covered by medical insurance (like Medicare) when implanted during Cataract Surgery when a visually significant cataract is present. When used for RLE/CLE (without a cataract), they are generally not covered by insurance.
FDA-approved Monofocal IOLs include various models from major manufacturers. Some advanced monofocal designs, like Extended-Depth-of-Focus (EDOF) lenses (discussed below), are considered premium lenses.
Extended-Depth-of-Focus (EDOF). EDOF monofocal lenses enhance the range of focus by creating a single elongated focal point, as opposed to multiple foci seen in multifocal lens technology. While near vision with EDOF IOLs may not match the clarity of multifocal lenses, they can offer advantages such as reduced aberrations, improved intermediate vision, and no compromise to distance visual acuity. Additionally, EDOF lenses are more suitable if you have certain preoperative conditions, which may include history of LASIK with mild higher-order aberrations. For those who may not be ideal candidates for multifocal lenses you might benefit from EDOF IOLs. FDA-approved EDOF lenses include Tecnis Symfony EDOF lens by Johnson & Johnson and the Clareon ® Vivity ® EDOF lens. These are premium lenses so you can expect to pay more for the lens as well as the surgeon's fee for cataract surgery.
FDA approved Monofocal lOLs include the Clareon® Monofocal IOL by Alcon, the TECNIS Eyhance™ Monofocal IOL by Johnson & Johnson Vision, the enVista Monofocal IOL by Bausch and Lomb, the RxSight’s Monofocal Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), which is the only adjustable IOL (adjustments are accomplished through light therapy after your lens implant procedure). The Light Adjustable Lens is crafted from a unique photosensitive material capable of adjusting the shape and refractive power of the IOL when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. This innovative technology enables precise optimization of your vision through UV light treatments.
Monofocal Implants are a refractive surgery procedure that can help correct your vision for:
- Nearsightness (Myopia)
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
- Presbyopia (Reading Problems)
- Monovision (1 eye is corrected for distance and the other eye is used for near vision)
- Astigmatism (Blurred Vision)
- In some cases, your astigmatism may be corrected for monovision through a Monofocal Lens implant (IOL) with either a Toric Lens or Astigmatic Incisions. This might be necessary in one or both eyes.
Cataract Surgery. A Monofocal Lens Implant may also be implanted in your eye during cataract surgery. Because these are standard monofocal lenses, these lenses are usually covered in connection with your cataract surgery by Medicare or your insurance and no additional fees should be charged by the surgery center for the lens or by the refractive surgeon for implanting this type of lens implant. Monofocal lenses are not covered by Medicare nor are these lens implants covered by a vision or health insurance plan if you do not have a cataract.
Toric Implants are a specialized type of Premium IOL designed to correct pre-existing Astigmatism along with nearsightedness or farsightedness. Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, and a Toric IOL has different powers in different areas of the lens to compensate for this irregularity, much like a toric contact lens or the correction in your glasses.
Toric Implants are available for use in both Cataract Surgery and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) / Clear Lens Exchange (CLE). By implanting a Toric IOL, a surgeon can correct the patient's astigmatism simultaneously with replacing the lens, significantly reducing or potentially eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses to correct astigmatism after surgery.
The technique for implanting a Toric IOL is similar to a standard IOL, but precise positioning and alignment of the lens in the eye are critical for successful astigmatism correction. This requires specialized measurements and surgical skill.
Toric Implants are considered a premium feature and typically involve additional out-of-pocket costs not covered by standard medical insurance when used during Cataract Surgery, and are generally not covered for RLE/CLE.
Because most people who are nearsighted or farsighted have some degree of Astigmatism (including those with cataracts), Toric Implants and Limbal Relaxing Incisions are two refractive surgery options available for many Nearsighted patients who have Astigmatism. In addition, these procedures often can be performed during cataract surgery. If you have significant Astigmatism, your best option may be to be corrected for Monovision with a Toric Lens Implant. Unlike a Monofocal IOL Lens, a Toric lens has two focus points instead of one. A Toric Implant can reduce your astigmatism much like your glasses but since it is inside your eye, your astigmatism is nearly always corrected when properly performed. The technique is similar to a normal lens implant (IOL), but the Toric lens has to be properly positioned in order to successfully correct the astigmatism. Toric Implants will have no effect in correcting any reading problems (Presbyopia) or farsightedness unless the Toric lens is used for a monovision focus. Toric Implants may help your vision in correcting for Presbyopia but only in cases where you are a good candidate for monovision
What's the difference between a Toric lenses and other IOLs used for RLE/CLE or Cataract Surgery?
Because a Toric lens has two focus points, it can also help with astigmatism, so it may be a preferable option over a monofocal lens implant during RLE/CLE or cataract surgery. When someone has cataracts and also has astigmatism, a Toric IOL is a specialized option that can correct both issues simultaneously.
Here's how the process works:
- Cataract Removal: During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens affected by cataracts is removed from the eye.
- Toric Lens Implantation: After the cataract is removed, the toric IOL is inserted into the same space where the natural lens used to be. The toric IOL is specifically designed to correct astigmatism by having different powers in different meridians.
By replacing the natural lens with a toric IOL, not only is the cataract removed, but the astigmatism is also addressed, which can significantly improve the patient's overall vision. With a toric lens, the surgeon must calculate the appropriate toric IOL power and alignment to achieve the desired astigmatism correction during a lens implant or cataract surgery procedure. This is why we recommend finding a cataract and IOL surgeon with proven expertise such as the ones you can find in the Trusted Cataract Surgeons® Directory.
The Light Adjustable Lens implants (LALs), developed by RxSight, is a revolutionary premium IOL that allows for post-surgical vision adjustments. Unlike other IOLs with fixed power, LALs are made from a photosensitive silicone material that responds to ultraviolet (UV) light. After implantation during Cataract Surgery or Clear Lens Exchange (CLE) surgeons can fine-tune the lens’s power using a Light Delivery Device (LDD) to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia.
The LAL's post-operative adjustability offers an unprecedented level of precision in achieving the patient's desired vision, making it particularly beneficial for patients seeking the most personalized outcome or those with complex cases or prior refractive surgery.
How LALs Work:
- After a 2–4 week healing period post-surgery, the surgeon performs 2–4 non-invasive UV light treatments (30 seconds to 2 minutes each) to reshape the lens.
- These adjustments optimize vision for your specific needs, such as distance, near, or intermediate tasks.
- A final UV treatment locks in the lens’s shape, ensuring permanent, stable results.
Benefits of LALs:
- Customizable Precision: Adjustments post-surgery ensure highly accurate vision correction tailored to your lifestyle.
- Superior Outcomes: Studies show LAL patients are twice as likely to achieve 20/20 vision without glasses compared to standard IOLs.
- Astigmatism Correction: LALs effectively address astigmatism, reducing reliance on glasses.
- Ideal for Complex Cases: Suitable for patients with prior refractive surgeries (e.g., LASIK) or unique vision needs.
- Reduced Visual Disturbances: LALs minimize glare and halos compared to multifocal lenses.
Learn more: Light Adjustable Lens (LALs) Discussion
Cataract Surgery: A Light Adjustable Lens may also be implanted in your eye during cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange (RLE) also referred to as Clear Lens Exchange (CLE). The LAL, developed by RxSight, is a premium IOL that allows post-surgical adjustments using UV light to fine-tune vision, ensuring precise correction tailored to your needs. Patients typically require 2–4 non-invasive adjustment sessions and must wear UV-protective glasses during this phase. Light Adjustable Lenses are generally not covered by insurance, so there is a charge of $1,000 or more for this type of lens and an additional fee for the refractive surgeon to implant and adjust the LAL.
The LAL is a premium lens and involves additional costs for the lens and adjustment sessions, typically not covered by standard medical insurance. Patients must also commit to wearing special UV-protective glasses during the adjustment phase (until lock-in).
LALs require patients to wear UV-protective glasses during the adjustment phase and commit to multiple post-operative visits. Find a top surgeon who may offer LALs through our Trusted Cataract Surgeons® Directory or Trusted LASIK Surgeons® Directory (many of the surgeons in our LASIK directory also perform lens implant and cataract surgery).
Multifocal Lens Implants are a type of Premium IOL designed to provide a range of vision, helping patients see clearly at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far) with a single IOL placed in each eye. They work by having different power zones or optical designs within the lens optic which means this lens that has a different power in the center of the lens and another power in the periphery of the lens so that vision can be focused for far or near out of the same eye.
Consequently, Multifocal IOLs can help correct Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, and significantly reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses to correct Presbyopia. This can allow patients to be much less dependent on glasses for most daily activities, such as reading, computer use, and driving.
While the main advantage of multifocal lenses is to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses at a range of distances (and reading lasses), Multifocal IOLs may have potential side effects, such as increased night glare and halos around lights, compared to monofocal or EDOF designs. You should discuss these potential side effects with a highly qualified and experienced surgeon who can help you determine if a multifocal lens is suitable for your visual needs and lifestyle. Standard Multifocal IOLs generally do NOT correct Astigmatism, so patients with significant astigmatism may need a Toric IOL or combined astigmatism correction with procedures like Astigmatic Incisions (LRI).
The FDA approved multifocal IOLs include the Clareon® PanOptix® IOL (a trifocal lens) by Alcon, the TENCIS Synergy Multifocal Lens (a continuous range of vision lens) by Johnson & Johnson Vision, the Rezoom Multifocal Lens by Abbott Medical Optics (now Johnson & Johnson Vision), and Rayner Multifocal Lenses.
Multifocal IOLs are considered premium lenses and involve additional fees for the lens and for the surgeon to implant then lens which are not typically covered by standard medical insurance.
Accommodating Lens Implants are a type of Premium IOL designed with a haptic (the arms that hold the lens in place) that allows the lens to move or change shape slightly in response to the eye's natural focusing muscle. The goal is to mimic the eye's natural ability to change focus (accommodation).
While they have only one power like a monofocal lens, they are designed to provide an increased range of focus compared to a standard monofocal, potentially offering clearer vision at intermediate and sometimes near distances in addition to distance vision. The degree of accommodation achieved can vary among patients. However, the risk of night halos and glare is similar to a monofocal lens, but the reading vision achieved with Accommodating Implants is generally not as strong or predictable as with multifocal lenses.
Accommodating Implants typically do NOT correct astigmatism.. Astigmatic Incisions may help reduce Astigmatism (Glasses and contacts lenses may also be options that may reduce or correct any Astigmatism in that eye).
Accommodating Implants are designed to help correct Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, and can help with Presbyopia since they can produce a variable effect on a patient’s ability to read better up close..
Accommodating Implants are premium lenses and involve additional costs not typically covered by standard medical insurance.
FDA-approved Accommodating Implants include certain models from Bausch + Lomb (e.g., Crystalens®AO and Trulign® Toric IOLs, which also corrects astigmatism).
Accommodation Implants approved by the FDA include the Crystalens®AO and Trulign® Toric IOLs which have been approved by the FDA to also correct Presbyopia using accommodation.
Cataract Surgery. An Accommodating Lens may also be implanted in your eye during cataract surgery. Accommodating Implants are generally not covered by insurance so there is an additional charge is charge of $1,000 or more for this type of lens and an additional fee for the refractive surgeon to implant the accommodating lens.
Extended-Depth-of-Focus (EDOF) Implants
Extended-Depth-of-Focus (EDOF) Implants are another type of Premium IOL designed to provide a broader range of clear vision compared to standard monofocal lenses. Unlike multifocal lenses that create distinct focal points, EDOF IOLs utilize optical designs to create a single elongated focal point, effectively extending the depth of focus.
EDOF IOLs aim to provide clear vision at distance and significantly improve intermediate vision (like computer distance). They may also offer some functional near vision, though typically not as sharp as dedicated reading vision provided by some multifocal lenses.
A potential advantage of EDOF IOLs compared to multifocal lenses is a potentially lower incidence of visual disturbances like night glare and halos while still providing reduced dependence on glasses for distance and intermediate tasks. EDOF IOLs may be a good option for patients who are not ideal candidates for multifocal lenses or prioritize intermediate vision. Some EDOF IOLs are also available in toric versions to correct astigmatism.
EDOF Implants can correct Nearsightedness and Farsightedness and help with Presbyopia by extending the range of focus.
EDOF implants are premium lenses and involve additional costs not typically covered by standard medical insurance.
FDA-approved EDOF lenses include models like Johnson & Johnson Vision's TECNIS Symfony™ and Alcon's Clareon® Vivity®.
Phakic Implants are a specialized type of intraocular lens implant (IOL) that are surgically placed inside the eye in front of the natural lens, which is left in place. This is a key distinction from procedures like Cataract Surgery or RLE/CLE. Phakic IOLs are typically inserted into the space between the cornea and the iris, or between the iris and the natural lens.
Phakic Implants are primarily used to correct moderate to high degrees of Nearsightedness (Myopia) and Astigmatism, often for levels that are too high to be treated effectively or safely with laser eye surgery (LASIK or PRK), or when laser surgery is contraindicated due to factors like thin or abnormally shaped corneas. Phakic lenses are not an option for Cataract Surgery in place of removing the cloudy lens, as they are designed to work with the natural lens.
A notable and increasingly popular example of a Phakic Implant is the EVO Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (EVO ICL). Approved by the FDA in 2022, the EVO ICL is a flexible artificial lens made from biocompatible Collamer material that is placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. It is a highly effective option for individuals typically aged 21-45 with stable, moderate to high Nearsightedness and Astigmatism who are seeking a reversible LASIK alternative that preserves corneal tissue.
Phakic Lens Implants are primarily employed to correct severe nearsightedness, typically ranging from -8.00 diopters to -10.00 diopters, a level that is often beyond the scope of correction achievable through laser eye surgery. A Diopter is the measurement of refractive error. (A negative diopter value signifies an eye with myopia and positive diopter value signifies an eye with hyperopia. The term "Diopter" is commonly referred to with a “d”, so as an example, a prescription would read “-2.25D” or “-2.25 d”) Furthermore, phakic lenses can be a viable alternative when laser vision correction surgery is not recommended due to factors like thin or irregularly shaped corneas.
For more detailed information and to explore the benefits of EVO-ICL, please visit our dedicated EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) Surgery discussion page and the Discover EVO-ICL resource by STAAR Surgical.
Other Refractive Surgery Procedures Used with Lens Implants
While IOLs correct vision from inside the eye, other procedures are sometimes combined with Cataract Surgery or RLE/CLE to enhance the overall outcome, particularly for correcting astigmatism:
Astigmatic Incisions (Corneal Relaxing Incisions)
Astigmatic Incisions, also known as Corneal Relaxing Incisions (CRIs) or Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK) (including Limbal Relaxing Incisions - LRI), are surgical techniques used to correct astigmatism by making precise incisions in the cornea. These incisions alter the shape of the cornea, making it more spherical and thereby reducing the blurriness caused by astigmatism.
Astigmatic Incisions are often performed in conjunction with Cataract Surgery or RLE/CLE, especially for mild to moderate astigmatism, as an alternative or in addition to a Toric IOL. These incisions can be made manually using a diamond blade or with greater precision using a femtosecond laser. An experienced surgeon will determine if Astigmatic Incisions are a suitable option for your astigmatism correction at the time of lens implant surgery.
For more information, please visit our Astigmatic Incisions and Limbal Relaxing Incisions discussion.
Why Choose a Trusted Lens Implant SurgeonTM from Our Directories for Your IOL Procedure?
No two eyes are alike. Depending on your eyes, some IOLs may be better suited to one eye and one or more IOLs may not be an available option for you. In other cases, an experienced IOL and cataract surgeon may use different IOLs and different types of lenses--like a multifocal lens in one eye and an EDOF monofocal lens in your other eye--to help you achieve better vision with fewer side effects and lower risks of complications.
Choosing a highly qualified and experienced eye surgeon is the most critical decision when considering Cataract Surgery or any lens implant procedure like RLE/CLE or Phakic Implants. The rapid advancements in IOL technology, including premium lenses like Toric, Multifocal, EDOF, Accommodating, and the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), require surgeons with deep expertise in patient selection, precise surgical technique, and managing post-operative expectations and adjustments.
Our Trusted Cataract Surgeons® Directory and Trusted LASIK Surgeons® Directory, feature eye surgeons who meet stringent qualification standards based on objective measures of their extensive experience, professional accomplishments, and recognition by their peers in ophthalmology. This rigorous screening process is designed to help you find truly expert surgeons dedicated to patient care and optimal results with IOLs and related procedures.
Surgeons listed in our directories are more likely to have proven expertise in performing a wide range of lens implant procedures and working with various types of IOLs. Many are leading experts in the field, contributing to research, training other surgeons, and offering the latest FDA-approved technologies and techniques.
By choosing a surgeon from our directories, you are selecting a professional who has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in cataract and refractive surgery and is highly qualified to:
- Accurately evaluate your eyes and vision problems to determine if a lens implant procedure is the best option for you.
- Discuss all suitable IOL options for your specific needs, considering standard monofocal, toric, multifocal, EDOF, accommodating, and the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), as well as options like Phakic IOLs (e.g., EVO ICL).
- Perform the surgical procedure (Cataract Surgery, RLE/CLE, or Phakic Implant) with the highest level of skill and precision.
- Manage your post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery and help you achieve your best possible visual outcome with your chosen IOL.
Choosing an expert surgeon from our network provides confidence in your decision and care. To learn why we recommend finding an expert in performing lens implant and cataract surgery, please visit: Why Use Trusted Cataract Surgeons®.
How to Find a Highly Qualified and Experienced Expert Surgeon for IOL and Cataract Surgery.
Our Trusted Cataract Surgeons® Directory features highly qualified cataract and lens implant surgery experts who have proven experience, are active in the field of refractive surgery, and have been professionally recognized for their research, accomplishments, and contributions to advancing vision correction care.
Most of the eye surgeons in our directory also perform lens implants and cataract surgery procedures and many of these eye doctors are leading experts when it comes any refractive surgery or to cataract surgery, including lens implants. In other words, the typical surgeon listed at Trusted LASIK Surgeons® is not simply a LASIK specialist, but a vision correction expert who is also an accomplished surgeon in a variety of refractive and cataract surgery procedures.
Even if the surgeon nearest to you in our directories do not offer lens implant surgical procedures or cataract eye surgery, we believe that surgeon may be able to refer you to an experienced and qualified surgeon in your local area who can help diagnose and treat you for your vision problems if a lens implant or cataract surgery is the best option for you. If you do contact a surgeon in our directory, please let them know you found them through Trusted LASIK Surgeons®.
Ready to explore Lens Implants or Cataract Surgery with a highly qualified surgeon?
Finding an expert surgeon who has proven experience with the latest IOL technologies and procedures is the best step towards achieving your vision goals. Use our directories to connect with a trusted expert near you who can evaluate your eyes and discuss if a lens implant procedure is right for you.
Find a Trusted Cataract Surgeons®
Find a Trusted LASIK Surgeons®
Important Note: While surgeons listed in the Trusted LASIK Surgeons® and Trusted Cataract Surgeons® directories are highly qualified in various vision correction procedures, not all surgeons listed perform every specific procedure or offer every single type of intraocular lens (IOL) mentioned on this overview page. Some of the surgeons in our directories do not regularly provide lens implant surgery and are more focused on LASIK and other laser vision correction procedures. Each surgeon has their own specific expertise and available technologies/IOLs. Visitors interested in a specific procedure (like EVO-ICLs or RLE/CLE) or a specific IOL type (like a particular brand of Multifocal, EDOF, or the Light Adjustable Lens) should confirm directly with the surgeon's office that they offer this during a consultation.
The screening process and standards used by Trusted LASIK Surgeons® and Trusted Cataract Surgeons® can be found at:
How Are Lens Implant/IOL and Cataract Surgeons Qualified at Trusted LASIK Surgeons®?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are Intraocular Lens Implants (IOLs)? IOLs are artificial lenses surgically placed inside the eye to correct vision, replacing the natural lens (Cataract Surgery, RLE/CLE) or placed in front of it (Phakic Implants).
Q: What vision problems can IOLs correct? Depending on the type, IOLs can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
Q: What is the difference between Cataract Surgery and RLE/CLE? Both replace the natural lens with an IOL. Cataract Surgery removes a cloudy lens, while RLE/CLE removes a clear lens for refractive correction.
Q: What are the main types of IOLs? Main types include Monofocal, Toric (for astigmatism), Multifocal (for range of vision), EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus), Accommodating, Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), and Phakic IOLs (like EVO ICL).
Q: What is a Phakic Implant? A Phakic Implant (like EVO ICL) is an IOL placed in front of the natural lens without removing it, typically used for high nearsightedness and astigmatism.
Q: Are premium IOLs covered by insurance? Typically, premium IOLs (Toric, Multifocal, EDOF, Accommodating, LAL) involve additional out-of-pocket costs not covered by standard medical insurance when used in Cataract Surgery, and are generally not covered for RLE/CLE or Phakic procedures.
Q: Is Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery available with IOLs? Yes, femtosecond lasers can assist in certain steps of cataract surgery before IOL implantation.
Additional Resources
Recent Advancements in Monofocal, EDOF and Multifocal IOLs
This January 2022 article published in EyeNet Magazine of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) entitled "A New Generations of IOLs" provides a useful guide to the latest advancements in Monofocal, EDOF and Multifocal IOLs. While it does contain some medical terms it is not filled with too much technical jargon and highlights new IOLs and some of differences between them. To download a PDF copy of this article on a new generations of IOLs, please click here.