Premium Cataract Surgery at Washington Eye Institute

Standard cataract surgery uses a monofocal lens that provides clear vision at one distance, usually far away, meaning you will likely still need glasses for reading and intermediate tasks. Premium cataract surgery uses advanced IOL technology designed to provide a broader range of clear vision, with the goal of reducing or eliminating your need for glasses at multiple distances after the procedure.

The best lens for you depends on your eye anatomy, the health of your cornea and retina, whether you have astigmatism, and how you use your vision throughout the day. Your surgeon at Washington Eye Institute will perform a detailed evaluation and discuss your visual goals before recommending a specific lens. There is no single lens that is best for everyone, and the recommendation is always personalized.

Most patients who choose a premium IOL experience a significant reduction in their dependence on glasses for everyday activities. However, some situations, such as prolonged reading of small print or driving at night, may still benefit from light corrective lenses. Your surgeon will set realistic expectations during the consultation based on your specific eye measurements and lens selection.

Insurance and Medicare typically cover the cataract surgery procedure itself and a standard monofocal lens implant. The upgraded cost of a premium IOL and any advanced technology fees, such as femtosecond laser assistance, are generally considered elective and are paid out of pocket. Our team can provide a clear breakdown of costs before you make any decisions.

Halos appear as rings of light around bright sources, and glare is a scattering of light that can reduce contrast, both of which some patients notice after receiving a multifocal or trifocal IOL. These visual effects are typically most noticeable in the first few weeks after surgery and tend to diminish as your brain adapts to the new lens over the following months. Extended depth of focus lenses generally produce fewer of these effects compared to multifocal designs.

Yes. Presbyopia is the age-related loss of near focusing ability that makes reading glasses necessary, and premium IOLs are specifically designed to provide a functional range of near and intermediate vision. Multifocal, trifocal, and extended depth of focus lenses each address presbyopia in a slightly different way, and your surgeon will help you choose the approach that best fits your visual needs. You can call or text us at 301.800.7490 to schedule a consultation.