TECNIS Multifocal Benefits, Procedure and Candidacy

As we age, cataracts are inevitable for most of us. At the 5th Avenue Eye Center, we offer TECNIS multifocal lenses that effectively cure cataracts and to help you regain the eyesight of your youth. The TECNIS multifocal implantable lens is a premium IOL (intraocular lens). It can replace a human lens that needs to be removed due to clouding and other damage caused by cataracts.

When we are young (usually under 45) the lens inside the eye can change its shape and hence add lens power to shift our focus from distance to near. This precious and extremely complex function of the young lens is known as “Accommodation”. This is why people younger than 45 usually don’t require reading glasses. However, after 45 the lens inside the eye will loose its flexibility and therefore we become dependent on reading glasses or bifocals.

During cataract surgery the natural lens of the eye is removed and needs to be replaced with an artificial lens. You have two choices:

1. Replace it with an old technology lens, which resolves the problem of cloudiness of the vision but does not give you back your youthful vision.
2. Replace it with the new Technology lens such as Tecnis Multifocal. That will solve the clouding problem but will also allow you to shift your focus from distance to near like the young human lens and hence reduce or completely eliminate the need for reading or distance glasses.

For the best results your doctor needs to determine which of the new technology lenses is the best for your individual case. Many different eye conditions exist that may make you a better candidate for a specific lens versus the other. The options of new Technology lenses include: Restor, Tecnis multifocal, Crystalens and Toric lens, (for astigmatism).

What Can I Expect During the Procedure?

The procedure to implant TECNIS multifocal lenses is quick and virtually pain-free. You will need to arrive at our New York City office about an hour before your scheduled surgery time. Although you will be fully awake during the procedure, you will be given local anesthesia drops to numb the eye. You may also be offered a mild sedative if you’re anxious about the procedure.

During cataract replacement surgery, Dr. Cohen will make a small incision in your eye to reach the lens. Then, he’ll use high-frequency sound waves (a process called phacoemulsification) to break up damaged lens tissue. Finally, he will replace the lenses with TECNIS multifocal lenses. Unlike monofocal lenses, these revolutionary lenses allow for viewing at multiple distances, including near, intermediate and long distance. .

The whole procedure takes about 15 minutes, and after a short recovery period at the surgical facility (an hour or so), you can be driven home to rest. You will be instructed to use medicated eye drops after the operation to prevent infection and inflammation. .

Do They Work?

TECNIS multifocal lenses have been shown to be highly effective in the majority of our New York City area patients. As a matter of fact, 9 out of 10 TECNIS multifocal wearers never need to wear glasses because they experience a full range of vision. Your individual outcome will depend on the physical characteristics of your eyes and should be thoroughly discussed, along with the risks prior to the surgery, with Dr. Cohen.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates for TECNIS multifocal lenses have been diagnosed with cataracts in one or both eyes and are experiencing one or more of the following issues:

• Trouble reading
• Trouble seeing close objects
• Difficulty with driving, particularly at night
• Experiencing glare
• Constant changes in glasses prescriptions
• Need for bifocals

Will Medicare or My Insurance Cover TECNIS Multifocal Lenses?

Recent changes to Medicare laws have made it easier to cover the cost of TECNIS multifocal lenses. And although every plan is different, private health insurance providers are also covering more and more of these procedures and deeming them medically necessary. At the 5th Avenue Eye Center in New York City, we will work with you and your insurance plan to figure out which surgical procedure is ideal for your optimal vision health as well as your budget. We will also inform you of financing options available to you during your consultation, so call today.

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