Patient resources
Standard monofocal lens
A monofocal lens gives clear vision at one distance, most often far away.
What to expect
A monofocal lens is set for a single focus point — what is often called the focal range, meaning the distance at which the eye sees clearly after surgery. Everything closer or farther than that set distance is out of focus.
Most people choose to have the lens set for distance vision, and use reading glasses for close work. This is the lens most commonly used in cataract surgery worldwide.
What it does well
- Crisp vision at one selected focal range
- Often selected for distance vision
- Lowest likelihood of advanced-lens visual effects
Some lenses that provide more than one focal range can cause rings or starbursts around lights at night, and a monofocal is least likely to do that.
Trade-offs to discuss with your surgeon
- Glasses are usually required for other distances
- Does not provide full-range glasses independence
Astigmatism, and toric versions
- Astigmatism means the cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football. It is very common and is not a disease.
- If the measurements show enough of it, the surgeon may use a toric version of the lens, which corrects it at the same time. Smaller amounts can often be treated with the femtosecond laser instead, or left alone.
- Whether or not the lens is toric, it still focuses at one distance. The toric version corrects astigmatism; it does not add a second focal range.
- The surgeon decides this from the patient’s measurements. It is not a separate option to choose, and it is not an upgrade to ask for.
If your measurements show meaningful astigmatism, your surgeon may recommend a toric version of the selected lens category.
Questions to ask your surgeon
- If I choose distance, what will I still need glasses for?
- Could one eye be set for closer vision instead?
- Do my measurements show astigmatism, and how would you correct it?
Video
Video coming soon
A video will be added here. Captions will be provided with the video.
Your surgeon may also discuss laser-assisted cataract surgery. The laser can help perform certain steps with added precision, soften the cataract before removal, and treat small amounts of astigmatism. It is commonly included with advanced lens packages at participating practices.
Some advanced lens and laser options involve costs that are not covered by insurance. Exact pricing depends on the option selected and will be explained by your surgical scheduler.
This educational tool does not diagnose eye conditions, determine whether you are a candidate for a specific lens, or replace a discussion with your surgeon. Your surgeon will recommend appropriate options after examining your eyes.
Talk to your practice
Your practice can explain how a standard monofocal lens may apply to you.