Mixing Multifocal and Monofocal IOLs patient satisfaction

[Bill61949]

My opthalmologist is suggesting that I consider the recently released (US market) Symfony multifocal lens from Technis. I have had a monofocal lens (Acrysof IQ) in my right eye for 5 years and have 20/20 vision from it. Before we decide she wants to run a test that she conducts on a system that helps determine your likelihood of adapting to a multifocal lens. If that test is successful I am wondering if there are any other considerations. I understand the benefit of not having to wear reading glasses all the time and I understand the patient satisfaction rates are very good with the Symfony lens. I am a 67 yr. old male, in good health, right eye dominant.

[Bill61949]

Thank you very much for the reply, I will get the refraction information and reply. What I know from my recent vision test is that I am seeing 20/20 out of my RE with the monofocal IOL. I currently wear a contact lens in the LE for distance vision, the prescription is -4.50.  With the LE contact lens in I wear reading glasses of 1.75 for computer use & reading.  At night with my LE contact lens removed I read comfortably with my LE only.  

[JohnHaganMD]

Yes I need to know your vision with your LE contact in and your vision and glasses RX for the RE.

ALSO: read this carefully  http://www.medhelp.org/user_journals/show/1648102/Consider-ALL-the-Options-Before-Your-Cataract-Surgery-Working-Through-Whats-Best-For-You

[JohnHaganMD]

What is your present glasses RX and your vision with them on?  Especially important to know the refraction of your RE which has the monofocal IOL.

Remember the multifocal IOLs are more expensive, more likely to have complications, have worse optics than monofocal.  Also you will be reading with only one eye so you will not have depth perception and most people do not read as well or as long with one eye vs two eyed reading.

Many offices are offering high pressure tactics to "upgrade" cataract/IOL surgery because of declining insurance and Medicare reimbursement.