multifocal iol the same effect as multifocal contact?

If i get a monofocal iol, could I then wear a multifocal contact for the same
effect as a multifocal iol.  What would be the difference besides the fact that
I would be able to remove it when it didn't want the "disco" effect?

[OldNavy966]

Sorry, let me clarify.  If I get a monofocal iol implant.  Couldn't I just put in a multifocal contact to get a better range of vision with that eye?  That way I could avoid the light show asociated with multifocal iols.
Thanks

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Yes that is something I have had other patients do. It usually works well PROVIDED the person already is successfully wearing multifocal contacts

JCH MD

[SUNSETBAY]

I was just advised at 56 that I need cataract surgery in both eyes.  If I choose the multifocal lenses it will be 5,000 out of pocket.   I have astigmatism in both eyes which will be corrected during surgery.  I have pretty good vision up close right now and very poor vision far away.  I am afraid my up close vision will become worse with the standard lense.  I am afraid to just get the standard and be dissapointed, but really can't afford the multifocal lense.  I don't know if I should wait and try to save for the multi in the future.  So confused. Help.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

SunsetBay: Your "choice" has been discussed in these forums scores of times and there are many extended and informative discussions that you can read to get up to speed. Use the search feature and archives.

If you can't afford a multifocal IOL then you can't afford one and your best choice is a high quality aspheric monofocal. If you correct the astigmatism with a toric IOL and ask to be left nearsighted say about -1.00 in one eye and -2.25 in the other you will have good uncorrected vision at near and mid distance. With progressive bifocals your distance vision should be good in both eyes.  That choice is called a mini-monofocal with near bias.

If it were me having cataract IOL surgery on my eye I would choose this option. I had a woman in my office today also spent $5000 extra for a multifocal IOL in each eye and is very unhappy and has a form of waxy vision in LE.  

JCH MD