Which lens is better: monofocal or multifocal?/ Monofocal vs Multifocal lenses

There are several varieties of intraocular lenses which can fit different vision-related and other needs of the patient. Both monofocal and multifocal lenses come under the category of artificial lenses called intraocular lenses (IOLs). These are the synthetic lenses used by eye surgeons as implants inside the eye to replace the natural eye lens. IOLs are used to treat cataract and eyesight problems like nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia).

These intraocular lenses are small flexible and foldable lenses made of acrylic which can seamlessly fit into the eye. Usually, IOLs are used for cataract surgery to replace the natural clouded lens. Let us further understand the difference between monofocal and multifocal lens:

Monofocal lens vs Multifocal lens

Monofocal lens:

Monofocal intraocular lenses have a single focus and are mostly used for distance vision correction. Patients who use such lenses need eyeglasses for near work. Monofocal IOLs which have improved depth of focus and monofocal toric lenses are more advanced adaptations.
Benefits of monofocal lens
Let more light enter into the eye in comparison to multifocal lens
In the majority of cases, the patients do not need to be dependent upon glasses after the implantation of the unifocal lens
Usually, unifocal lenses work effectively for both distance and intermediate vision, thus a best-suited option if you’re mostly engaged with computer work
Monofocal toric lens resolves astigmatism, a condition where the vision is blurred due to the abnormal shape of the cornea. However, one may still require glasses, but not at all times.

Limitations or disadvantages of monofocal lens

If you prefer to enhance your near vision, you would still need to rely on glasses for distance vision and vice versa.

Multifocal lens:

These lenses enable an individual to view distant, intermediate, and nearby objects. The surface of the multifocal lens is etched with concentric rings in such a way that it enables you to look at objects at various distances. However, it may take some days to adapt to different distances as the brain needs to pick up this new method of focusing on objects.

Benefits of multifocal lens

Multifocal intraocular lens can correct astigmatism and give a wide range of clear vision
There is no dependency on spectacle or other vision aids as multifocal IOL allows you to have clear vision at all distances
Long-lasting results without the need for lens replacement

Limitations or disadvantages of multifocal lens

In very few cases, about 5-10 percent of people who choose multifocal lenses experience glare or halo while they look at light during the night. In some cases, the eyes adapt to this and the problem may vanish within a few days or weeks. But if it does, immediately reach your eye surgeon.
Some patients require reading eyeglasses while working in dim light conditions or trying to see things up close like reading medicine bottles, prescriptions, etc.
One may face difficulty with contact which may cause discomfort in reading properly if the light is not proper. And, thus this struggle should be avoided to keep good eye health post multifocal IOL implantation.

Conclusion

You must have understood that the type of lens appropriate for an individual depends upon their eye condition. Thus while comparing monofocal vs multifocal lens, the most-suited IOL is the one recommended by the doctor based on complete eye checkup or pre-refractive workup. To know which lens you should prefer for cataract or other vision related problems, get in touch with Planet Lasik by Centre for Sight. To book a consultation with our experienced eye specialists, visit https://www.planetlasik.com/