In the past, if you developed cataracts, the only question was when to have cataract surgery.
But today, with recent advances in cataract surgery technology, you can choose among several types of intraocular lenses your cataract surgeon can implant in your eye during the procedure to correct your vision.
In the May 15, 2010 online edition of The Wall Street Journal, Health Journal columnist Melinda Beck outlined the latest intraocular lenses available and the additional cataract surgery cost associated with premium IOLs that reduce your need for bifocals and reading glasses after surgery.
Among the choices noted:
Accommodating IOLs that flex inside the eye in response to focusing effort to restore vision at all distances. Currently, Bausch & Lomb’s Crystalens is the only brand of accommodating IOL that has gained FDA approval for use in the United States. Added cataract surgery cost for a Crystalens IOL: $2,200 to $3,500 per eye.
Multifocal IOLs that have more than one lens power, like bifocal contact lenses. Several brands of multifocal IOLs are available. Added cost for a multifocal IOL: $2,200 to $3,500 per eye.
nanoFLEX IOL. This premium IOL, produced by STAAR Surgical Company (Monrovia, Calif.) is made of a soft biocompatible material called collagen. STAAR’s current nanoFLEX IOL does not yet have FDA approval to be marketed as an accommodating IOL, but cataract surgeons who have used the device say it provides a wider range of vision than conventional IOLs. Currently, the nanoFLEX does not cost significantly more than other monofocal (single-power) IOLs covered by Medicare.
Ms. Beck says that though less than 20 percent of people undergoing cataract surgery today are choosing premium IOLs, that may change as more seniors see the value of paying extra for premium IOLs that reduce their dependence on eyeglasses after surgery.
Tags: accommodating IOL, cataract surgery cost, Crystalens, multifocal IOLs