Vision and lens implants
Most lens implants, or intraocular lenses (IOLs), are monofocal, that is, they have a fixed point of focus and are suitable for either near vision or distance vision but not both. If a distance lens is implanted, you will need to wear glasses or contact lenses for reading; if a reading lens is implanted, you will need glasses for seeing far away. Most monofocal implants correct for distance vision.
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In 1997 the Food and Drug Administration approved the first multifocal lens. In theory these lenses correct near vision and distance vision simultaneously. Because they are a compromise, with these IOLs your near vision and distance vision will improve but not as much as, for example, your distance vision alone would have improved if you had received a monofocal IOL corrected for distance. With multifocal IOLs you may experience problems with glare, halos, loss of contrast and night driving. In addition, multifocal IOLs need to be implanted in both eyes.
A recent study found that many people could stop wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses after receiving multifocal implants. For now the multifocal lens still has some glare problems that need to be worked out. Researchers continue to try to resolve these problems and improve IOLs so that they are flexible enough for the eye to focus at both distant and near objects.
The second cataract
You may have heard of a second cataract, or "aftercataract." This condition occurs when the back of the lens capsule - the part of the lens that wasn't removed during surgery and that now supports the lens implant - eventually becomes cloudy and blurs your vision. Another term for this condition is posterior capsule opacification (PCO). PCO can develop months or years after cataract surgery. It happens about 15 percent to 20 percent of the time. The gradual clouding is the result of cell growth on the back of the capsule.
Treatment for PCO is simple and quick. It involves a technique called YAG laser capsulotomy, in which a laser beam is used to make a small opening in the clouded capsule to let light pass through. Capsulotomy means "cutting into the capsule," and YAG is an abbreviation of yttrium-aluminum-garnet, the type of laser used for the procedure.
Laser capsulotomy is a painless outpatient procedure that usually takes less than 5 minutes. After the procedure you typically stay in the doctor's office for about an hour to make sure your eye pressure isn't elevated. In some people, particularly those who have glaucoma or are extremely nearsighted, YAG laser surgery can raise eye pressure. Other complications are rare but can include swelling of the macula and a detached retina.
Can cataracts be prevented?
Most cataracts occur with age and can't be avoided altogether. Regular eye exams remain the key to their early detection. You can take steps to help slow or prevent the development of cataracts:
- Don't smoke. Smoking produces free radicals, increasing your risk of cataracts.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Limit alcohol. Excessive drinking may increase your risk of developing cataract.
- Protect yourself from the sun. Ultraviolet light may contribute to the development of cataracts. It's good to wear sunglasses when you are outdoors.
- Follow your treatment plan if you have diabetes or other medical conditions.
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Researchers continue to explore new ways to prevent and treat cataracts. If you do have a cataract, your chances of fully restoring your vision with cataract surgery are excellent if you have no other eye diseases. To find out more, you can check out Ways To Improve Your Eyesight.