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FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve recorded a number of questions over the past few years about intraocular lenses, and why we recommend how toric, multifocal, and accommodative premium lenses outperform the standard lens replacement used in cataract surgery.

Click each question below to show the answer:

I Have Glaucoma: Is Cataract Surgery An Option For Me?

Yes, cataract surgery is possible! In fact, sometimes cataract surgery can lower both elevated eye pressure and glaucoma medications. Contact your Sullivan Ostoich Eye Center eye doctor who can offer you all cataract treatment options, guide you to the top surgeons in your area and provide the best possible eye care for you!

How long does it take to heal?

Each patient is unique and the healing process will be different in each case. Most patients return to their normal work or lifestyle in two to three days. The focusing ability of the lens will not be fully realized for 6 to 8 weeks after the procedure. The eye must re-learn how to focus on objects at various distances in order to see clearly. It is important to discuss your expectation for this lens with your surgeon so that you can better understand the actual healing process.

Can my vision be corrected to 20/20, for both reading & distance?

The crystalens has been designed to focus your eyes at all distances after cataract surgery.

While virtually everyone will experience a significant improvement in their uncorrected vision after surgery, some people will not see 20/20 at all distances. It is interesting to note that many people who have not had surgery are not able to see 20/20 at both near and far even with glasses or contact lenses. This is due to a variety of ocular and physiological problems as well as lifestyle preferences, yet most of these people function quite normally although their vision is reduced.

The two-year clinical trial that supported the FDA approval of the crystalens indicated that 92% of the people enrolled in the study (implanted bilaterally) could see 20/25 or better at distance, 96% could see 20/20 at arm’s length and 73% could see 20/25 at near without glasses or contact lenses.

What is more exciting is that 98% of these people could pass their drivers test, 100% could see their computer and dashboard, read the prices in the supermarket or put on their makeup, and 98% could read the telephone book or newspaper, all without glasses or contact lenses.

It is important to keep in mind that visual acuity is subjective and depends upon each individual’s own ocular and physiological conditions as well as lifestyle preferences. Some patients implanted with the crystalens still require glasses for certain activities. (Courtesy of www.crystalens.com)

What makes the PanOptix lens different from other intraocular lenses?

The PanOptix® IOL is has the unique ability to focus on objects at varying distance without corrective lenses. Standard (single vision) lens implants do not have the ability to provide a full range of vision.

Most people who have single vision lens implants MUST wear glasses for middle and near vision. It was shown in clinical trials that premium lenses significantly improve visual clarity at all distances than patients implanted with a standard lens (36%). 

What is a Toric IOL?

New solutions for patients with astigmatism after cataract surgery!

The doctors of the Sullivan-Ostoich Eye Center are happy to offer multiple intraocular lens implants for after cataract surgery. The Acrysof Toric lens is specifically designed for patients who have a significant amount of astigmatism. In years past, cataract surgery removed the cataract, but a patient with high astigmatism still required glasses for near and distance vision.

The design of the Acrysof Toric lens makes it possible to reduce or eliminate astigmatism and significantly improve uncorrected distance vision.

There is an additional cost for this lens implant.

If you are a cataract-aged patient and learning about cataract surgery and have astigmatism please make sure to consult us about your lens options after surgery. This new lens makes it possible to reduce astigmatism after cataract surgery.

Please feel free to call us for more information.

What is the PanOptix® IOL lens?

The PanOptix® IOL lens is an intraocular lens used after cataract surgery or as a lens alternative in presbyopic lens exchange. The concept of the lens was engineered to permit distance, middle and near objects to all be in focus at the same time  

This lens is permanently implanted with a surgical process and functions in a similar fashion as the natural eye. Once the surgery has been completed your eyes can focus on far or near objects in a comfortable way.

Is there any Clinical Trial Information?

In a clinical study, 129 patients were asked about their experience with the PanOptix® Lens:

  • 99% of people with the PanOptix® Lens would choose the same lens again.
  • 98% of people with the PanOptix® Lens would recommend it to family and friends.

Please contact us today to find out which lens may be the right one for you.