3 Types of Cataract Lenses
Have you been told you need cataract surgery? Perhaps your vision is becoming cloudy, and it’s becoming harder to read, drive, or recognise faces? Cataracts can sneak up on you slowly, but once they start affecting your everyday life, it's only natural to look into treatment options.
Cataract surgery is a safe and common procedure that replaces your eye’s cloudy natural lens with a clear, artificial one. But here’s the thing: not all lenses are the same. In fact, there are three main types of cataract lenses, and each one works a little differently. Choosing the right one can make a big difference to how well you see after surgery.
In this article, you’ll learn about the three types of cataract lenses, how each one works, the pros and cons of each (in a simple table), which one might suit your lifestyle best, answers to frequently asked questions, and what to expect in terms of cost. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of your options, so you can make the right choice for your vision.
For more advice related to cataract surgery and aftercare, have a look at some of our other guides, where we answer questions like, “Is walking for exercise after cataract surgery safe?” or “What is the common treatment for watery eyes after cataract surgery?” You can also book a free video appointment with Mr Dan Nguyen or take our online suitability self-test today.
What Is a Cataract Lens?
What happens during cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is usually quick, safe, and doesn’t require a hospital stay. Your eye surgeon removes your eye’s natural lens, which has become cloudy over time, and replaces it with a clear artificial one. This artificial lens is called an intraocular lens (IOL). The whole thing often takes less than 20 minutes per eye and is usually done with local anaesthetic eye drops.
What is a cataract lens implant?
An intraocular lens (IOL) is a tiny, foldable lens that goes inside your eye. It stays there permanently. Once in place, it helps focus light properly onto the back of your eye (the retina), giving you clearer vision. Different lenses offer different benefits, especially when it comes to focusing at various distances or correcting other conditions like astigmatism.
The 3 Types of Cataract Lenses Explained
Monofocal lenses
This is the most common type of cataract lens. A monofocal lens is designed to give you clear vision at one fixed distance. That distance is usually set for far away (so you can see the TV or drive without glasses), but you’ll likely still need reading glasses for things up close like books, phones, or menus. Monofocal lenses are widely used and available on the NHS.
Multifocal lenses
Multifocal lenses work a bit like progressive glasses. They have different zones built into the lens, allowing you to see clearly at near, intermediate, and far distances. The goal is to reduce or even eliminate your need for glasses after surgery. They’re often chosen by people who want more freedom from glasses, but they can come with side effects like glare or halos around lights at night.
Toric Lenses
Toric lenses are designed for people who have astigmatism. Astigmatism is when your eye's front surface is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, which can make your vision blurry. A toric lens corrects this as well as the cataract. Toric lenses can be monofocal or multifocal, depending on your visual needs. They usually aren’t available on the NHS and are more expensive.
Three Lens Types at a Glance
| Lens Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monofocal | Clear vision at one distance | Still need glasses for near or far | Most NHS patients, budget-friendly |
| Multifocal | See near, mid, and far distances | May cause glare or halos, not NHS-covered | People who want to reduce glasses use |
| Toric | Fixes astigmatism + cataracts | More costly, not always NHS-covered | People with astigmatism |
How Do I Know Which Lens Is Right for Me?
1. What does your lifestyle require?
Your daily habits can influence the best lens choice. If you read often, drive at night, work on a computer all day, or prefer to avoid wearing glasses, these factors can help determine which lens will suit you best. For instance, if you love reading and dislike glasses, a multifocal lens might be the right choice. On the other hand, if you do a lot of night driving, a monofocal lens could be a better fit to reduce glare.
2. What does your eye health look like?
Your surgeon will examine your eyes to check for any conditions that might affect your surgery or lens choice. These include astigmatism, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or other eye diseases. Certain eye conditions may limit your options or make some lenses less suitable.
3. What does your specialist recommend?
It’s important to have a personalised discussion with your ophthalmologist. They will help you weigh your options, consider your eye health, and explain how each type of lens fits your goals and lifestyle. This ensures you feel confident and informed before making a decision.
Are Some Cataract Lenses More Expensive Than Others?
NHS lens options
The NHS typically covers monofocal lenses as part of standard cataract surgery. This includes the surgery itself, follow-up appointments, and post-operative care. However, the NHS doesn’t usually cover premium lens options like multifocal or toric lenses. These upgrades generally come with additional costs.
Private Cataract Surgery
If you choose private cataract surgery, the price will depend on the type of lens selected.
- Monofocal lenses usually cost between £2,500 and £3,500 per eye.
- Multifocal lenses are priced higher, typically ranging from £3,000 to £4,500 per eye.
- Toric lenses, which correct astigmatism, can cost £3,500 to £4,500 or more per eye.
Private cataract surgery usually includes the initial consultation and pre-surgery tests, the lens itself, the surgical procedure with anaesthesia, and all necessary aftercare and medications. Some clinics offer package deals or flexible payment plans to help spread the cost over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between monofocal and multifocal lenses?
Monofocal lenses are set to give you clear vision at one distance-usually far. This means you’ll likely still need reading glasses for close-up tasks. Multifocal lenses, on the other hand, are designed to help you see well at near, intermediate, and far distances, reducing your need for glasses after surgery.
Can I get multifocal or toric lenses on the NHS?
In most cases, no. The NHS typically offers monofocal lenses as standard. If you want a premium lens like a multifocal or toric lens (which corrects astigmatism), you would usually need to pay for it privately.
Are premium lenses like multifocal or toric worth the extra cost?
That depends on your lifestyle and what matters most to you. If you’d prefer to reduce your reliance on glasses and don’t mind paying extra, premium lenses can offer more convenience. However, they may also come with side effects like glare or halos, especially at night. It’s a personal decision best made with your specialist.
What is astigmatism, and do I need a toric lens if I have it?
Astigmatism means your cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, which can cause blurred or distorted vision. If your astigmatism is moderate or severe, a toric lens can give you sharper, clearer vision than a standard lens. Your eye surgeon can tell you if it’s needed based on your eye tests.
Can I have a different lens in each eye?
Yes, in some cases, your ophthalmologist may recommend different lenses in each eye. For example, you might have one eye set for distance vision and the other for near vision—this is called monovision. It works well for some people but not everyone, so you may be given a chance to test it out before surgery.
What if I choose the wrong lens or change my mind after surgery?
Once a lens is implanted, it’s intended to stay in your eye permanently. That’s why it’s so important to take your time, ask questions, and make sure you fully understand your options before surgery. Your specialist will help you weigh up the benefits and any potential downsides.
Do multifocal lenses really let me live without glasses?
Multifocal lenses are designed to reduce your need for glasses, especially for activities like reading, driving, or using a computer. Many people find they use glasses less or not at all. However, it’s not guaranteed. Some people still prefer glasses for specific tasks or low-light situations.
Will my vision be immediately better after surgery?
Most people notice clearer vision within a day or two after surgery, but it can take a few weeks for your eyes to fully adjust, especially if you’re having both eyes done at different times. Your surgeon will monitor your healing and offer guidance throughout recovery.
Can cataract surgery fix other vision problems too?
Yes, it can. Besides removing the cloudy lens, cataract surgery can also correct long-sightedness, short-sightedness, and astigmatism, especially if you choose a premium lens like multifocal or toric. This means you could end up with better overall vision than you had before.
Choosing the Right Cataract Lens for You
Cataract surgery offers a powerful opportunity to reclaim your vision and improve your day-to-day life. But it’s not just about removing the cloudy lens, it’s also about choosing the best replacement lens for your unique eyes and lifestyle.
Monofocal lenses are a reliable and widely available choice, especially through the NHS. They’re ideal if you don’t mind wearing glasses for some tasks and want a straightforward option that delivers clear vision at a set distance. Multifocal lenses, on the other hand, offer a more advanced solution. They can provide good vision at a range of distances and reduce your need for glasses but they may come with trade-offs like glare or halos.
Then there are toric lenses, which are especially helpful if you have astigmatism. These lenses are designed to correct that specific issue, providing sharper and more accurate vision.
When deciding which lens is right for you, take into account how you use your eyes every day. Do you enjoy reading without glasses? Do you drive often, particularly at night? Do you spend hours at a computer? All of these factors will guide your decision.
Most importantly, don’t make the choice alone. Speak to a specialist, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to take your time. The right lens can help you enjoy life more fully, whether that’s seeing your loved ones clearly, reading a favourite book, or safely navigating the road.
What should I do next?
If you’re thinking about cataract surgery, it’s a good idea to explore your options and understand what each type of lens can offer. The best way to begin is by speaking with a qualified specialist who can assess your eye health and help you make an informed choice based on your lifestyle, goals, and vision needs.
At Dan Nguyen Ophthalmology, our mission is to restore and protect the clarity of your vision. We know how essential good sight is for your independence, confidence, and quality of life. That’s why we provide expert care that is tailored to your needs, backed by experience and guided by compassion.
Ready to take the next step? Book your free video consultation or take a suitability self-test today. Let’s talk about your vision goals and explore which cataract lens can help you see the world more clearly again.
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DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products and methods mentioned are not a substitute for professional medical advice from a trained healthcare specialist. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Use of the information and products discussed is at your own risk.
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Mr Dan Nguyen
MBChB MBA FRCOphth FRANZCO
Consultant Eye Surgeon
Hello, I’m Dan Nguyen!
I‘m your guide to better vision. In times when long waiting lists and unclear options are the norm, it’s easy to feel stuck and worried about your eye health. Don’t let that hold you back. I’m here to show you that you can skip the endless queues and make real progress. Remember, you’re unique, not just another name on a list. Every patient I see receives top-notch care, tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. Once you’ve had your treatment, you’ll be able to embrace a life that’s vivid, colourful, and just the way you like it. So what are you waiting for? Stop waiting and start living!
