What is a Multifocal Lens Implant?
Multifocal lens implant, also called multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implant, is an artificial replacement for the natural lens in your eye. It is used to improve your vision and eliminate the need to wear spectacles, especially after cataract surgery.
A cataract causes the lens in your eye to become cloudy and decreases your vision. A multifocal lens implant is used to replace the cloudy lens during cataract surgery. After the cataract is removed, the multifocal lens implant is placed just behind the pupil in your eye.
The various benefits associated with a multifocal lens implant include improved contrast sensitivity, reduced glares and halos, and higher patient satisfaction levels.
What are the Indications for Multifocal Lens Implant?
What is the Pre-Surgical Preparation for Multifocal Lens Implant?
Before your multifocal lens implant surgery, your eye doctor will:
- Perform a detailed eye exam and test your vision
- Select an appropriate implant for your condition
- Prescribe medicated eye drops to be used a few days before your surgery
- Instruct you to stop wearing contact lenses and taking certain medications several days prior to the surgery
Procedure for Multifocal Lens Implant Surgery
A multifocal lens implant surgery usually involves the following steps:
- You will have eye drops administered to numb the eye. You may also be given medications to relieve anxiety.
- During the procedure, you may see some light but will usually feel nothing or only some slight pressure.
- A tiny cut or incision will be made through your cornea to reach the damaged lens.
- The cloudy lens will be cut and removed piece by piece.
- It is then replaced by the multifocal lens implant.
- There are no stitches as the incision heals naturally.
You can return home within an hour of surgery. You should plan for someone to drive you home following the procedure.
Recovery and Post-surgical Care after Multifocal Lens Implant Surgery
You can resume your regular activities within 2-3 days after the multifocal lens implant surgery.
- Take the medicated eye drops as prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid exercise and heavy lifting until your doctor tells you it is safe to do so.
Please note that it may take 6-8 weeks for the new lens to become fully functional post-surgery.
What are the Risks and Complications of Multifocal Lens Implant?
Multifocal lens implant may have the following risks and complications:
- Dry eye
- Residual blurred vision
- Formation of scar tissue behind the lens implant
- Displacement of the multifocal lens
- Altered pupil size
