Premium Lens Implants in Austin

Standard implants after cataract surgery generally only correct distance vision and reading glasses are always required.  If there is preexisting astigmatism, or an irregular curvature of the eye, bifocal glasses are still required if the standard implant is used.  Thanks to the advanced technology of implants, patients may now choose to have both their reading and distance vision corrected at the time of surgery.  In addition, if there is astigmatism, a premium implant may be used to correct this problem and bifocals are not required.

Introducing the TECNIS® Multifocal Implant to Correct Reading Vision

The TECNIS® Multifocal implant is a diffractive, aspheric lens implant that uses various rings of lens power to restore "younger" vision.  This lens can provide you with high-quality vision at any distance, and in all lighting conditions-even dim light.  If you enjoy activities such as reading, boating, quilting, playing golf, sightseeing, or surfing the internet, the TECNIS® Multifocal Lens allows you to lead an active lifestyle.  Many people with this lens experience the best eyesight they have had in years.  In fact, nearly 9 out of 10 people do not require glasses after receiving a TECNIS® Multifocal Lens.  Drs. Restivo and Cottle are two of the few surgeons in the Austin/Cedar Park area using the TECNIS® Multifocal Lens, and they are excited to be able to offer this newer technology to their cataract patients. 

Using the ReStor® Lens Implant to Correct Reading Vision

The Acrysof® ReStor® lens is another multifocal lens implant designed to improve your vision at both near and far distances, with reduced dependency of glasses.  Imagine a life with such reduced dependency on glasses;  being able to read prescription bottles, read price tags on the grocery shelf, drive, watch movies and play golf without the help of your bifocals!  

Using Toric® Lens Implant to Correct Astigmatism

The Acrysof® Toric® implant is a premium intraocular lens that is designed to correct astigmatism, which is an irregular shape of the front of the eye.  In a recent FDA study, 97% of patients who had the Toric® lens implanted in both eyes reported freedom from their glasses for distance vision.  It is important to understand that reading and computer glasses are still required with this lens, however if a standard lens were used, bifocal glasses would be needed.  In the near future, there will be a premium lens implant available that will correct astigmatism and reading vision all in one.

How do I choose the right Premium Lens Implant?

Dr. Restivo and Dr. Cottle will review your needs and will discuss your options for the best vision correction for you after cataract surgery.  These lenses have revolutionized the way patients achieve the best uncorrected visual results after cataract surgery.  Aside from the freedom from glasses and the luxury of excellent vision, imagine the cost-saving benefits of not needing bifocals on a yearly basis!

What is a Refractive Lens Exchange?

An elective vision correction surgery, refractive lens exchange is the ideal solution for many patients when other options just don't measure up. Essentially painless in nature, during the surgery, your eye's natural crystalline lens will be removed and replaced with an intraocular lens, usually made of silicone or plastic. This can help you achieve sharper focus in your day to day life.

What can I expect during the procedure?

A small incision is made at the edge of the cornea. Then, a probe is used to break up and take out the lens. After this is removed, the lens implant is inserted. The entire procedure takes 10-15 minutes.

What are the advantages of a Refractive Lens Exchange?

This procedure has been performed for many years, and has had a great success rate. Since the central cornea remains untouched during the surgery, patients with a thin cornea, dry eyes or even minor cornea problems may be a great candidate for this. Those who have developed cataracts in their early stages are also excellent candidates for this procedure. Finally, because the natural lens is removed, there is virtually no chance of developing cataracts in the future.