Type of lens implant for victrectomy

[gusher]

I am 59 years old. I have huge floaters in both eyes that became very bothersome about 4-5 years ago. So much so, I was evaluated by Dr. Karickhoff in Virginia for YAG  laser surgery. The floater in my left eye was too close to the retina for him to attempt it and the cataract in my right eye was bad enough that it prevented him from doing that eye. Since then my cataracts have gotten much worse and it has diminished the discomfort of the floaters. However, I know they are still there and I need the cataract surgery now. My opthalmologist is recommending the Restor 3 lens and has refused to give me a referral to a retinal specialist even thouhg he has noted my large floaters. I would like to know if I have a victrectomy after the cataract surgery to take care of the floaters, would it be better to have a normal IOL implant rather than a Restor 3 lens implant? Or doesn't it matter? I am concerned that since Restor 3 is a multi focusing implant that my vision might more easily be restored after a victrectomy with a normal IOL lens implant. Your thoughts and recommendation are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[gusher]

A related discussion, Full monovision gone wrong on first eye for reading? was started.

[Houman Vosoghi, MD]

Restor will make it slightly more difficult for the retina specialist to examine your retina and see well for a potential vitrectomy but still doable.  The thing that would concern me is if something were to go wrong with the vitrectomy, then the Restor is a bad choice.  In my opinion, someone who has another eye concern or problem other than cataracts bothering them should opt for a regular monofocal lens and settle for wearing glasses for near (or far depending on your choice).  That's a personal opinion though and you may consult with other cataract surgeons if you like.

HV

[JodieJ]

I'm not an eye care professional.  You would definitely want an acrylic IOL (not silicone).  Although the Restor 3 is acrylic, it seems like a terrible choice for someone with huge floaters.  I'd suggest that you consult another cataract surgeon.