Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss, but thanks to modern cataract surgery, clear sight can be restored quickly and safely.
The surgery itself is routine.
What makes the biggest difference afterward is the artificial lens (IOL) that replaces your clouded natural lens.
Your choice of lens determines how you see the world for the rest of your life. Some patients want sharp distance vision and don’t mind wearing reading glasses. Others want freedom from glasses altogether, whether they’re on the computer, driving down I-280, or reading a book at home in San Jose.
At Furlong Vision Correction, we offer the full range of cataract lens replacement options, from standard monofocal lenses to advanced PanOptix and Vivity lenses. We guide every patient through the decision with clarity and care.
If you’re preparing for cataract surgery in San Jose or the surrounding Silicon Valley, here’s what you need to know about choosing the lens that’s right for you.
Why Lens Choice Matters in Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful procedures performed today. In fact, more than 4 million cataract surgeries are performed in the U.S. every year.
And the numbers continue to rise as the population ages.
The procedure itself is straightforward: your cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant, called an intraocular lens (IOL). What isn’t standardized is the type of lens you receive.
That choice has a profound impact on your daily life:
- It determines how well you see up close, at intermediate ranges, and at a distance.
- It influences whether you’ll still rely on glasses after surgery — or enjoy near-total visual freedom.
- It affects how you handle specific tasks, like night driving on the 101, long hours at a computer in Silicon Valley, or reading without strain.
According to a recent 2024 report from the National Eye Institute, cataracts affect more than 24 million Americans over the age of 40, and by age 75, nearly half of all adults will have some degree of cataract development. That makes choosing the right IOL more important than ever.
For patients in San Jose and the surrounding Silicon Valley, where active lifestyles often mean long workdays in front of screens, outdoor activities on weekends, and plenty of night driving, the decision goes beyond restoring clarity. It’s about choosing a lens that supports the way you live.
Types of Cataract Lens Replacements (IOLs) Explained Simply
When your cloudy natural lens is removed during cataract surgery, it’s replaced with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). Not all IOLs are the same.
Each type offers different benefits depending on your vision goals, lifestyle, and budget. Here are the main options available to cataract patients in San Jose:
Monofocal IOLs (Standard Lens)
- What it is: The most common type of lens used in cataract surgery. Provides clear vision at one distance, usually set for far away.
- What it means for you: You’ll likely still need glasses for reading, computer use, or close work.
- Pros: Covered by Medicare and most insurance; reliable and time-tested.
- Cons: Glasses almost always required for some daily activities.
- Best for: Patients who don’t mind wearing glasses and want a cost-effective option.
Toric IOLs (For Astigmatism)
- What it is: A specialized monofocal lens that also corrects astigmatism (an irregular curve in the eye that causes blurred vision).
- What it means for you: Sharper vision for patients with astigmatism, with less dependence on glasses.
- Pros: Corrects two issues at once (cataract and astigmatism).
- Cons: May still need glasses for reading.
- Best for: Patients with moderate to high astigmatism who want clearer distance vision.
Multifocal IOLs
- What it is: A lens with multiple focusing zones, giving you clear vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges.
- What it means for you: Reduced or sometimes eliminated need for glasses.
- Pros: Great for patients who want more freedom from glasses.
- Cons: Some patients may notice glare or halos around lights, especially at night.
- Best for: Active patients who want to minimize glasses use for everyday activities.
PanOptix IOL (Trifocal Lens)
- What it is: The first FDA-approved trifocal IOL in the U.S., designed to provide clear vision at all three ranges (near, intermediate, and far).
- What it means for you: Many patients are glasses-free for almost all activities.
- Pros: Excellent option for people who want the greatest independence from glasses.
- Cons: Premium lens upgrade (not fully covered by insurance); some patients may notice halos at night.
- Best for: Patients who want maximum glasses freedom and are comfortable with a premium investment in their vision.
Vivity IOL (Extended Depth-of-Focus Lens)
- What it is: A newer IOL that provides a continuous range of vision with smoother transitions than multifocal lenses.
- What it means for you: Clear distance and intermediate vision, with fewer side effects like glare. May still need reading glasses for fine print.
- Pros: Reduced risk of glare or halos compared to multifocals.
- Cons: Doesn’t always eliminate glasses completely.
- Best for: Patients who want balanced vision and fewer night-driving issues.
“I had an incredible experience with Furlong Vision Correction and could not recommend it enough. The technicians are always very thorough, carefully explaining clearly what is happening each step of the way and were always there to answer questions whether that be over the phone or email.”
– Cristen H.
Cataract Lens Options at a Glance
Choosing the right lens can feel overwhelming, but putting the options side by side makes the differences much clearer.
Cataract Lens Options Compared
| Lens Type | Vision Range | Glasses Needed? | Insurance Coverage | Best For |
| Monofocal IOL | One distance (usually distance) | Yes, for near/intermediate tasks | Covered by Medicare/insurance | Patients who want simplicity and low cost |
| Toric IOL | One distance + corrects astigmatism | Sometimes, for reading | Covered with upgrade | Patients with astigmatism seeking sharper distance |
| Multifocal IOL | Near, intermediate, and distance | Rarely | Premium upgrade | Active patients wanting less dependence on glasses |
| PanOptix IOL | Trifocal: near, intermediate, far | Minimal | Premium upgrade | Maximum freedom from glasses |
| Vivity IOL | Extended depth-of-focus (smooth range) | Sometimes, for fine print | Premium upgrade | Balanced vision, fewer night-driving side effects |
How to Choose the Right Lens for Your Lifestyle
The best lens for cataract surgery isn’t just about the latest technology. It’s about how you want to live your life after surgery. At Furlong Vision Correction in San Jose, we help patients make this decision by focusing on three main factors:
Your Daily Activities
- Near tasks: Do you spend a lot of time reading, cooking, or sewing?
- Intermediate tasks: Are you on the computer most of the day or using tablets/phones regularly?
- Distance tasks: Do you drive frequently, especially at night, or enjoy outdoor activities like golf or hiking in the Santa Cruz Mountains?
If you rely heavily on all three distances, a PanOptix trifocal IOL might be your best fit. If you’re mostly focused on distance and don’t mind glasses for reading, a monofocal IOL may be enough.
Your Budget and Insurance Coverage
- Monofocal and toric lenses are covered by Medicare and most insurance plans.
- Premium lenses (multifocal, PanOptix, Vivity) involve an out-of-pocket upgrade cost.
Your Personal Preferences
Think of it as an investment in your vision, much like choosing higher-end progressive glasses or contact lenses, only this choice lasts a lifetime.
- Do you want complete independence from glasses?
- Or are you comfortable wearing reading glasses if it means less out-of-pocket expense?
- How important is avoiding visual side effects like halos at night?
Every patient has different priorities, and the “right” choice isn’t the same for everyone.
At Furlong Vision Correction, our team takes the time to review your vision history, listen to your goals, and recommend the IOL that matches your lifestyle, not just your prescription.
Why San Jose Patients Trust Furlong Vision Correction
When it comes to cataract surgery and lens replacement, San Jose patients don’t just want clear vision. They want confidence in their surgeon and their options.
That’s why so many people across San Jose and Silicon Valley choose Furlong Vision Correction.
A Legacy of Trusted Care
For over two decades, Furlong Vision Correction has been a leader in advanced vision care in the Bay Area. Their board-certified surgeons have performed thousands of successful procedures, combining surgical expertise with a compassionate, patient-first approach.
Access to Every Lens Option
Not every eye center offers the full spectrum of artificial lenses. At Furlong, patients can choose from:
- Standard monofocal IOLs
- Toric IOLs for astigmatism
- Premium lenses including multifocal, PanOptix, and Vivity
This means your recommendation is based on what’s best for you, not on a limited set of options.
Convenient for Silicon Valley Patients
Located in San Jose, Furlong Vision Correction is easy to reach from:
- Santa Clara
- Sunnyvale
- Cupertino
- Mountain View
- Milpitas
No matter where you live in Silicon Valley, advanced cataract care is close to home.
Patient-Centered, Every Step of the Way
Patients consistently highlight the professionalism, warmth, and clarity of the Furlong team. From the first consultation to the final post-op visit, the focus is always on your comfort and your results.
Ready to See Clearly Again? Next Steps for San Jose Cataract Patients
Cataract surgery is one of the most successful procedures in modern medicine. And with today’s advanced lens options, it can do more than restore your sight. It can transform the way you see the world every day.
Whether you’re comfortable wearing glasses sometimes or want the freedom to live life without them, choosing the right artificial lens is the key to long-term satisfaction after surgery.
At Furlong Vision Correction in San Jose, we’ll guide you through every option (from monofocal to PanOptix and Vivity) and help you make a confident, informed choice. Our team has helped thousands of Silicon Valley patients regain clear vision, and we’re ready to do the same for you.
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Your best vision is within reach. Take the first step today and see what life looks like with clarity again.