What are the different types of lens implant?

Lens implants have been around for over 65 years (world’s first lens implant was done at St. Thomas’ Hospital in 1950).

Intraocular lenses are made up of soft plastic. Unlike the contact lenses these do not need to be replaced regularly as they sit inside the eye in place of the natural lens that is removed at the time of the cataract surgery.

Depending on the ability to focus there are mainly three types of implant.

Monofocal lenses– These can only focus at a certain distance- far distance or near or intermediate depending on the lens power that is chosen.

These are standard lenses that have been around the longest and have good track record.

Toric lenses– these can be used to reduce the astigmatism (i.e. if the shape of the front of the eye is like a rugby ball rather than a football) of the eye.

Multifocal lenses– these are lenses that can focus at different distances i.e. for distance and near thereby reducing the dependence on glasses after the surgery.

Toric and multifocal lenses are premium lenses that are not routinely available on the NHS.

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Patient Feedback

I had cataract surgery to both eyes. I also had upgraded trifocal lenses in both eyes. I am very happy as the cataract symptoms have now gone and I do not need glasses at all. I sit at a computer 90% of my working day. Before the surgery I could not see the screen without glasses and now I do not need them at all.
Ms S S, London, 12/11/2013 9:07 PM
I am writing to thank you for the care and attention you afforded me recently to remedy the cataracts in both eyes and the astigmatism in my right eye. Throughout you explained clearly your thoughts and proposals for my treatment and set clear expectations about the outcome from the two operations. The expectations you set for long distance and short sight distance have not only been met but been exceeded. I am delighted with the outcome. The two operations were painless and I would recommend anyone who has to undergo such treatment not to be concerned. At all times you provided excellent patient care. As you know I am engaged in the IT industry and in my view the two most important facets to success is the technical solution provided and working closely with my clients. Clearly you have immense technical knowledge and in addition managed to make me feel at ease, comfortable and consequently I gained complete confidence with you. I have been wearing glasses and / or contact lenses for over 50 years and to be able see normally without either is a fantastic feeling. Mr Goyal thank you again for the excellent care you provided to me. If ever the opportunity arises I would be happy to recommend you.
Mr. D B, Kent. , 18/5/2013 10:47
I recently underwent surgery for a cataract in my R eye following a very frightening experience where I had developed complete loss of vision in my R eye over a period of 2 hours. Mr Goyal provided not only incredible expertise but kindness and a sense of humour throughout,I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Mrs K.C, London. , 17/3/2013 19:19
It was a pleasure to be treated by Mr. Goyal. I was completely relaxed throughout both of my cataract operations performed by him. All went well and true to his word he telephoned me the next morning the ensure that all was well.
Mrs. M K- London, 17/12/2012 18:00
Saurabh Goyal is a charming man and an excellent surgeon who exudes quiet confidence in his undoubted abilities. When he successfully carried out bilateral laser iridotomy on my eyes I decided that he was the only surgeon I would choose to perform my cataract surgery. His attention to detail throughout has been meticulous and nothing has been too much trouble for him on my behalf. He is, in short, an immense credit to his Profession.T.D.Ireland B.Sc.,C.Eng.,F.I.Mech.E.
Kent, 26/11/2012 12:31

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