Back when I wrote my first story about cataract surgery (yikes—nearly 30 years ago), it was already a procedure that offered excellent results for most patients.
However, there have been amazing advances in the field since then, particularly when it comes to intraocular lens implants or IOLs. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, so the lens is removed, then replaced with an IOL.
At that time, most available lenses were monofocal, meaning they provided clear vision at one distance. Usually, this meant patients were able to do activities like driving and watching television free of glasses, but did need glasses for activities requiring near- or intermediate distance vision, such as reading, using the computer, or sewing.
While monofocal lenses are still widely used, there are now other types. That means before you have cataract surgery, you’ll need to learn about the pros and cons of each.
Read more in my latest ‘Health: Your Questions’ column for Good Times magazine: “Cataract Surgery: Which Lens is for You?”
A big thank-you to expert interviewee Dr. Guillermo Rocha, who is past-president of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society and a professor in the Department of Ophthalmology, in the Max Ready College of Medicine in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He is also president of the COS Foundation, and medical director at both the Ocular Microsurgery and Laser Centre in Brandon, Manitoba and the TLC/LMD in Winnipeg.
If you want to read more extensively on the topic, check out these resources:
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario
- Keszei Vision Care
- Yale Medicine