Innovative Technology is Improving Vision after Cataract Removal
- Posted on: Feb 28 2020
Cataract removal is a beneficial and necessary procedure that has been performed for many years. As technology has advanced in the area of intraocular lens replacement, patient outcomes have improved. Now, patients can not only avoid the use of thick “coke-bottle” glasses after cataract surgery but they may be able to greatly reduce their need for eyeglasses at all. This is thanks to developments like the Symfony intraocular lens.
The Symfony intraocular lens, made by Tecnis, was approved by the FDA in 2016. It was the first to provide extended depth of focus, and it outperformed previous multifocal lens technology in providing visual acuity at all distances. Historically, multifocal lenses have come with certain disadvantages. The Symfony lens offers advantages typically associated with monofocal IOLs without those typical disadvantages.
How the Symfony Intraocular Lens Works
The objective of the Symfony design process was to create a lens that would improve vision very strongly at intermediate distances, where most of us put a lot of focus. Computer screens sit at intermediate distances. Conversations are had at intermediate distance. Additionally, this multifocal lens was designed to maximize distance vision and provide good near vision for reading and other tasks.
The Symfony multifocal intraocular lens was developed to outperform the weaknesses typically associated with multifocal lenses. Common weaknesses included glare and halos. In clinical studies, Symfony performed similarly to standard intraocular lens technology and also demonstrated the capability to treat astigmatism.
Who is a good candidate for the Symfony IOL?
Most people with healthy, normal eyes are good candidates for laser cataract surgery and the Symfony intraocular lens. A comprehensive exam includes specific tests to determine the overall health of the eyes prior to cataract surgery. Problems such as corneal scarring, macular degeneration, or retina problems may exclude a person from being a good candidate for a multifocal intraocular lens. Due to limitations in vision caused by one of these conditions, a traditional lens or other multifocal lenses may be a better option for vision correction after cataract removal.
Cataract surgery can significantly improve quality of life. To find out which intraocular lens would be the best fit for your needs, schedule a consultation with an experienced eye doctor in our Canfield, Alliance, or North Canton office.
Posted in: Cataract Surgery