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101 Main St. | Suite 208 | Medford, MA 02155 781-395-9916
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Premium IOLs

Presbyopia is the need for most adults over 50 to use reading glasses or bifocals in order to see up close. A revolution in cataract surgery has occurred with the advent of three FDA-approved intraocular lens implants (IOL’s) that correct both distance and near (reading) vision, thus allowing greater independence from glasses. There are two categories of these implants: Multifocal (ReStor™ and ReZoom™) and accommodating (Crystalens™).

The Premium IOL’s cure cataracts, but also treat Presbyopic, turning back the clock to bring back your ability to see up close as well as at a distance without glasses. Studies have shown that patients who opt for Premium IOL’s are overwhelmingly free of eyeglasses, perhaps occasionally using them for small print.

Dr. Gilbert is one of the first ophthalmologists in Massachusetts to be certified in and offering all three of the first FDA-approved Premium lenses.

Intraocular Lens Options

  • Standard aspheric intraocular lenses [gasses are typically used for reading] – excellent for correcting distance vision or one point of focus if significant astigmatism is not present (see Astigmatism below).
    The Premium Intraocular Lens Upgrades – which can provide less dependence on the need for reading glasses – include:
    • Multifocal
    • Accommodative
    • Toric for Astigmastism

Each of these New Technology lenses has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. We will help patients select the intraocular lens that may be most appropriate for their needs and lifestyle.

  • ReSTOR™ – An apodized Multifocal IOL.: Good distance, excellent close vision for reading and hobbies. Best for someone whose visual priorities are up close.
  • Crystalens™ – An accommodating lens: Movement of the lens on hinges enables you to focus at different distances. The real physiologic details are debated, but it gives excellent distance, intermediate and good reading. Glasses are generally used by some, but only for small print. It avoids notable glare and halos. A night time driver who uses the computer is a typical excellent candidate.
  • ReZoom™ – A second-generation Multifocal acrylic IOL: Excellent distance, good intermediate and computer, good reading. Glasses are often not necessary for all but the smallest print size such as medicine bottle small print or the stock pages. Excellent for the majority of visual needs.
    Find out if you are a candidate for a Premium IOL implant. Dr. Gilbert can help you determine if you are a candidate and select which lens may be the best fit for your needs.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is very common.  It causes a blurred, distorted view because the eye is shaped like an American football rather than a round ball. Eyeglasses, contact lenses, laser vision correction, and corneal incisions have all been used to successfully treat astigmatism.

If you are planning to have cataract surgery then you have the option to correct the preexisting astigmatism during the cataract surgery in order to free yourself from the need for distance glasses. Two methods are employed. The first is called Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI). These peripheral corneal incisions help reshape the cornea into a round contour. LRI is simple, safe and effective for limited amounts of astigmatism. The second method uses a specialized intraocular lens (IOL) called a Toric IOL that corrects the blurred view caused by astigmatism. The Toric IOL is specifically oriented with the direction of your astigmatism in order to elegantly correct it with impressive clarity. The Toric IOL is used for medium amounts of astigmatism.

Toric Lens

Astigmatism Method
Small None
Limited LRI
Medium Toric IOL
Large Toric & LRI
With Multifocal IOL LRI

What is the Cost of the Procedure?

For our patients with cataracts, insurance will generally cover the cataract part of the procedure and the standard IOL. The patient is responsible for any insurance copays or deductibles. The elective upgrade to a Premium IOL and/or surgical correction of astigmatism will be the patient’s financial responsibility. The cost for these Premium or Toric IOL’s and/or LRI covers the surgeon’s pre-op evaluation and surgery, the cost of the eye surgery center, the cost of the optional IOL and 90 days of cataract optional IOL and/or astigmatic postoperative care at the office.

For patients who have no cataract and seek a Premium IOL for refractive reasons, the procedure is considered cosmetic and is the full financial responsibility of the patient.

Is Financing offered for Cataract Surgery, Premium IOL’s or other Procedures?

Learn more about our Ophthalmology Services

Contact us at 781-395-9916 or fill out our Contact Form for more information.

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