Cataract Sx & Lens

[budu14]

I have to have sx for cataracts (they will correct my astigmatism as well) and have to decide between the multifocal or monofocal lens. I'm 61 and physically active (tennis, biking, etc)---currently I am nearsighted, and no blurred vision re distance---just cant read signs unless I am on top of them.

Is there anyone who has had this sx in the PAST 6-12 months who can offer some advice?
It seems to me that you have to make a series of compromises with the multifocal (i.e., halos, glare, intermediate vision, visual contrast, night vision impairment, etc--).
Is the multifocal lens worth it--because I have the impression that most people choose it in order to get as close as possible to eyeware independance and are willing to accept these compromises?

The eyes are so important and any informed help you could provide would be appreciated---Thank you,


This discussion is related to Cataract surgery in RE only - high myopia in both eyes.

[KayakerNC]

Toric lenses seem to give better astigmatism correction then the use of incisions (LRI) during surgery.   And, if the astigmatism is not fully corrected, the multifocal lenses don't do well.  Astigmatism is the enemy of multifocals.
As yet, there are no toric multifocals approved by the FDA in the US.
Of course, the downside of all premium lenses is the out-of-pocket costs.   And laser assisted surgery is another out-of-pocket expense.  If your insurance covered a 2nd opinion, they will probably cover a 3rd.  

[budu14]

Thank you for your reply--your situation seems very similar to me, including date of sx, except, my 2nd opinion doc said to do the multi and my original doc said that if it was him, he would do the mono.

[KayakerNC]

I had 2 cataract evaluations (original and 2nd opinion) this last month.  Both ophthalmologists have implanted all the US available lenses, and both said they would NOT recommend the multifocal lenses due to the high rate of patient dissatisfaction.  
They both recommended Toric lenses for my eyes (farsighted and about 1.5 D of astigmatism in each eye).  Choices were the AcrySof IQ Toric IOL or the Trulign Toric IOL.  
My decision is to go with the Crystalens Trulign, I have my pre-op appointment next week and surgery scheduled for early September.