Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Intraocular lens implants (IOLs) can improve a range of vision conditions and have you seeing much more clearly, without heavy reliance on corrective eyewear. IOLs are typically placed during cataract surgery procedures, and they can often serve as alternatives for patients who may not be candidates for laser vision correction. We offer a full range of IOL options to our patients in the Norfolk and Virginia Beach, VA areas, allowing us to customize their vision correction to suit their individual needs.
IOL Options
Intraocular lenses, or IOLs, are artificial lenses that are most commonly used to replace cloudy lenses during cataract surgery. Even when a patient does not have cataracts, we can use an IOL to correct common vision problems through a procedure called Refractive
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Intraocular Implants (IOLs)
American Academy of Ophthalmology
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Lens Exchange.
At Virginia Eye Consultants, we offer both standard and advanced IOLs for our patients.
Standard IOLs
Standard, or monofocal IOLs are used to replace a cloudy lens during cataract surgery. As cataract surgery is considered a medical necessity, standard IOLs are typically covered by patients’ medical insurance plans. These lenses can restore clear sight after cataracts and may also correct near or distance vision, but not both. Many of our patients who undergo cataract surgery with standard IOLs will still need to rely on glasses for some tasks.
Advanced IOL Options
For patients who wish to reduce their dependence on glasses and contacts, advanced IOLs can be used to correct a range of refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. We offer a number of options when it comes to advanced IOLs:
Astigmatism Correcting IOLs
Toric IOLs can be used to correct astigmatism, a condition where an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens causes distorted vision. We offer both monofocal Toric lenses and multifocal Toric lenses. With a monofocal Toric lens, astigmatism is corrected as well as vision at one distance (near or far). A multifocal Toric lens can be used to correct astigmatism as well as vision at a range of distances.
Presbyopia Correcting IOLs
Presbyopia, or age-related near vision loss, begins to affect everybody at around the age of 40. This is caused by a stiffening of the lens of the eye, which makes it more difficult to focus on up-close objects and tasks like reading. Many people with presbyopia wear reading glasses for close work, but it is possible to correct presbyopia with advanced IOLs.
We offer a range of IOL options for our patients with presbyopia:
- Multifocal IOLs: Multifocal IOLs are designed with multiple zones for near, intermediate, and distance vision, allowing patients to see clearly at various ranges without relying on glasses.
- Trifocal IOLs: Trifocal IOLs provide vision correction across three focal points—near, intermediate, and distance—offering a broader range of vision clarity and reducing the need for corrective lenses for most daily activities.
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs: EDOF IOLs extend the range of clear vision by creating a single elongated focal point, allowing patients to see well at intermediate and distance ranges, with some improvement in near vision as well.
- Accommodating IOLs: Accommodating IOLs mimic the eye’s natural lens by shifting position within the eye, helping to restore a more natural range of vision, particularly for intermediate and distance tasks.
Light Adjustable Lens™
The Light Adjustable Lens™ (LAL) by RxSight® is a revolutionary option for cataract and refractive lens exchange patients seeking the highest degree of precision in their vision correction. Unlike traditional IOLs, the LAL can be customized after implantation through a series of painless, in-office light treatments. This unique feature allows patients to fine-tune their vision post-surgery, providing a personalized visual outcome that can correct for refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with unparalleled accuracy.
The customization process typically involves a few short, non-invasive light treatments over the course of several weeks. During these treatments, the lens power is adjusted based on real-time feedback, ensuring that the patient achieves their desired vision. Once the ideal vision is achieved, the lens is “locked in” with a final light treatment, permanently setting the prescription. The Light Adjustable Lens offers an unprecedented level of control and satisfaction, allowing patients to experience the best possible vision tailored to their unique needs.
How do I know which IOL is right for me?
A comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, vision goals, and lifestyle will help determine the best IOL option for you. Your surgeon will guide you through the selection process to ensure you choose an IOL that meets your specific needs.
Will I need glasses after receiving an advanced IOL?
Many patients find that their need for glasses or contact lenses is greatly reduced after receiving an advanced IOL. However, some individuals may still require glasses for certain activities or tasks.
Will insurance cover my IOLs?
Insurance usually covers the cost of IOLs when cataract surgery is deemed medically necessary due to significant vision impairment. Standard IOLs are typically included in this coverage. However, if you opt for advanced IOLs or undergo refractive lens exchange without a cataract, these are considered elective procedures and may not be covered by insurance.
We offer a number of convenient payment and financing options to help fit clearer vision into your budget.
Meet Our Cataract Doctors
Convenient Locations in and around Norfolk or Virginia Beach
We Look Forward to Seeing You!
200 Corporate Blvd,
Norfolk VA, 23502
2234 Cunningham Dr,
Hampton VA, 23666
241 Corporate Blvd,
Norfolk VA, 23502
241 Corporate Blvd,
Norfolk VA, 23502
2463 Pruden Blvd,
Suffolk VA, 23434
2020 General Booth Blvd,
Virginia Beach VA, 23454
465 N Great Neck Rd,
Virginia Beach VA, 23454
Contact Virginia Eye Consultants
If you’re in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, or the surrounding areas, our expert team is here to help you achieve your best vision. Contact us to schedule your consultation and learn more about our advanced eye care options. We look forward to serving you!
1 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Intraocular Implants (IOLs). Available: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/iols-intraocular-lens. Accessed January 19, 2022.
The doctors at Virginia Eye Consultants have either authored or reviewed the content on this site.