Different Multifocal Lens Implants in Each Eye?

Question: I have cataract in both eyes and need cataract surgery. Is it possible to have a ReSTOR® multifocal lens implant in one eye and a different multifocal that would do well in dim light? Would Medicare pay for one single vision lens implant if I have a multifocal lens implant in the other eye?

Answer: While it is possible to mix and match multifocal lens implants, it is not a generally used practice as it can result not only in adding some benefits, but in extending some problems and optical complexity. Generally one would “mix and match” if there was a need to modify the near and intermediate range of vision this could be attempted-BUT could result in the highlighting of side effects of each. Follow the recommendations of your cataract surgeon. Medicare will pay for the monofocal lens only-even if you have a multifocal in the opposite eye.

Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery or Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.

Toric Lens Implants & No Astigmatism Correction

Question: I had cataract surgery and toric lens implants. After an extensive exam yesterday, I have found out I still have almost all of the astigmatism that I had before surgery nearly 2 years ago.  How can I find out if I really have the toric lens?

Answer: If you are questioning whether in fact your cataract surgeon actually used toric lens implants to correct astigmatism rather than conventional spherical or aspheric implants, there are several things you can do. First, you may have been given a small identification card tat identifies the brand and parameters of the lens that was implanted in your eyes. This would identify whether it was a toric lens. If you do not have this card, then perhaps it might be best to schedule an appointment with another cataract surgeon who can review your preoperative records and the results of your recent exam and then after his or her own exam render an opinion regarding the history and state of the astigmatism correction for you.

Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery or Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.