Refractive

During cataract surgery or clear lens exchange the natural

lens is removed and needs to be replaced. The options are

to replace it with a monofocal lens (where glasses will be

needed), an accommodative lens or a multifocal lens.

The multifocal lens is made of either silicone or acrylic and has refractive optics consisting of concentric zones. The lens provides two separate areas in focus simultaneously. Previous versions of these lenses used to cause halos and glare but this has largely been eliminated. In one study of patients given a multifocal implant 80% did not need distance glasses and 40% did not need reading glasses at all (compared to nearly 100% needing reading glasses with monofocal implants).

These are impressive results but they demonstrate that only a minority of patients can expect to be completely glasses free. The majority will enjoy reduced dependence on reading glasses but still need them for more taxing near activities. There are ways of reducing this dependence even further. Your surgeon will discuss with you whether you are suitable for these implants.

During cataract surgery or clear lens exchange the natural lens is removed and needs to be replaced. The options are to replace it with a monofocal lens (where glasses will be needed), an accommodative lens or a multifocal lens.

For best results it maybe appropriate to combine lenses, a procedure called 'custom match'. Professor Shah is a leader in the field of this technique.

Further information on the new varieties of multifocal implants is available on www.CustomMatchSolutions.com.