Cataract Surgery and Type of Lens

[scams]

I am 75 years old and need cataract surgery.  I also have been taking Flowmax for over six years.  My primary question is how does the patient and/or doctor determine which type of lens that are best for the cataract surgery/patient (how is the lens selection made)?  What questions should I ask the opthamologist during my first visit about the surgery and after the cataract surgery is completed?

The crystalens HD appear to be theoretically a good choice but have seen some  problems with this type of lens on this forum.  

Any suggestions, ideas, and cautions would be very much appreciated, Sam.

[JodieJ]

Check out the patient education video at www tecnisiol com to learn what aspheric monofocal IOLs can do for you.  (The Tecnis IOL is made by AMO.  Alcon and Bausch & Lomb also make excellent aspheric monofocal IOLs.)  These lenses can be set for blended vision (distance vision in dominant eye, intermediate in near).  If all goes as planned, you would only need glasses for prolonged reading or seeing small print.  This is at least as good (probably better) than what you would get with the Crystalens HD, without the "premium" lens out-of-pocket surcharge or the increased risk of post-surgery problems.

[scams]

Many thanks to Dr Feldman, EyeOffice and JodieJ for your informative replies. Sam

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear scams,

I would recommend that you research the lens options after seeking the care of your eyeMD.  Your eyeMD should assist you in determining which lens is best for you based upon your visual needs, personality and expectations.  I usually give patients a form to fill out to enable me to determine their needs better.  Do not feel rushed to make a decision.  Do your homework.  I use a number of different lenses depending upon the patient.

Dr. Feldman
Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[EyeOffice]

A couple of thoughts; first, do tell your cataract surgeon about the Flowmax (very important!)

Second, about the crystalens there has been mixed results. The first one was no good (imho) but the HD appears to be better. They are new, so like with anything there are pro's and con's.

Check out http://cataractsurgery.accommodatingiol.com for more info on these lenses  :)