Whether you are considering your first vision correction or looking for an alternative to glasses or contact lenses, you may have heard of the foldable intraocular lens (IOL). This type of lens is used during cataract surgery to replace the natural lens that has become cloudy.
It is also used in refractive surgery to correct vision problems. Keep reading to learn more about how this special lens can enhance your vision.
What Is a Foldable Intraocular Lens?
A foldable IOL is a tiny artificial lens made from a flexible material that can be folded before it is inserted into the eye. It is designed to mimic the shape and flexibility of your natural lens, allowing it to fit through a smaller incision than traditional IOLs.
The advantage of a foldable IOL over other types of IOLs is that it does not need stitches or sutures after implantation because it was small enough to fit through the incision without being cut open. Additionally, since the IOL does not need sutures or stitches, the postoperative recovery time tends to be shorter with this type of implant.
How Does It Work?
Once implanted in your eye, the foldable IOL will expand into its original shape inside the eye and function just like your natural lens did when it was clear. The difference is that this new lens will be free from clouding due to cataracts, allowing you to enjoy clear vision again.
Additionally, if you choose a multifocal or accommodating IOL, you may also experience improved near and intermediate vision, allowing you to enjoy activities such as reading and using digital devices without needing readers or bifocals.
What Are the Benefits?
The benefits of a foldable IOL include improved clarity and resolution for distance vision; better contrast sensitivity; fewer nighttime halos; less glare; improved night driving; reduced dependency on eyeglasses; no further surgery needed for refractive errors; better quality images in low light conditions; improved color perception; and a reduced risk of infection compared with traditional intraocular lenses due to their smaller size and lack of sutures.
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