For some, the motivation behind getting eye surgery done is the desire to no longer wear glasses. For others, of course, there are real eye conditions that need to be treated. But regardless of what the motivation happens to be, it is important to choose intraocular or IOL lenses that are perfectly suited to the patient.

There is actually a wide range of lens types to choose from, from the old reliable monofocal lens that has been the mainstay of the eye care industry, to the fashionable multifocal lens that is growing in popularity.

But the fact is that when it comes to eye care procedures, like cataract surgery, intraocular lens options need to be considered and a decision made. Here is a guide to five of the most popular lens options in the intraocular array.

Monofocal

Easily the most common lens used in cataract and lens exchange surgeries, the monofocal was the first and is generally considered the standard lens. Their reliability is extremely high, though their versatility is limited to just one distance.

This means, for example, that while sight can be improved so that objects at distance can be seen clearly, objects that are near remain unclear and glasses are generally required. Patients have a choice to have lenses that provide distant, close up and even midrange distance lenses implanted.

Toric

This type of intraocular lens is monofocal in design but is specially designed to treat astigmatism. This eye condition relates to the irregular shape of the cornea, which in turn leads to blurred general vision.

A toric lens counters this effect, which results in distance vision being improved and distance glasses being put away. It does depend on how far astigmatism has progressed, but the toric lens is certainly an effective option, allowing those who are implanted with it to reduce their dependency on eye glasses.

Multifocal

The mutlifocal lens differs from the monofocal in so far as it provides more than one focus zone in the lens. This means that through a multifocal lens, the eye can focus comfortably on objects both far and near, and in doing so restores all but perfect sight and makes a life without glasses a reality.

The lens is shaped like a bullseye with concentric circles of differing strength. It sounds complicated, and there have been concerns over whether or not the patient can accept such a lens, but the brain adapts to the new situation over time.

Accommodative

One of the most cleverly designed lenses available, the accommodative lens actually moves in unison with the muscles in the eye to allow natural focusing abilities. For example, if a person focuses on an object a distance away, then the muscles in the eye relax, and the lens responds by falling slightly back in the eye, thereby allowing for clear vision.

Then, when looking at something close, the muscles in the eye contract, pushing the lens forward to focus clearly on it. This lens also rules out the need for glasses, though patients with astigmatism will need to have that condition addressed first.

Monovision

Monovision is not actually a lens, but a vision system involving two different lenses rather than one specially designed one. However, it is a viable sight improvement option that does drastically reduce the reliance a patient might have on glasses. Basically, one eye receives a lens designed for focusing on objects in the distance, and the other eye receives a lens designed for focusing on objects close up.

It does seem a little strange to have different IOL lenses in place, but the brain can adapt quickly and soon works out which eye to rely on. The result is that glasses for both distance and close up can be done away with. And in case of uncertainty, the real effect can be experienced through contact lenses matching the situation. That way patients can decide if it is for them.

Of course, these lenses are only fully effective when an experienced ophthalmologist performs surgery, and are not to simply cover over any eye conditions that might be there. There is not a substitution for the right treatments, and when a patient is in need of cataract surgery intraocular lens options should be considered to ensure the right lens is implanted.

For some, that will be the multifocal lens option, and for others the monofocal lenses implant is the best. The decision should only be made after careful and thorough consultation with the ophthalmologist involved.

When you see better you discover more. But in this busy world it is difficult to protect your eyes from all sorts of hassles. The introduction of contact lenses helps you to resolve your vision problems without blotting the elegance of your eyes. It is a thin transparent disc worn over cornea.

The basic purpose of contact lenses is to correct different vision disorders. But today its uses are diversified. These are available in many forms, colored contact lenses are in vogue today. It is cool and convenient to use any kind of lenses. But lot of care should be devoted to this. An improper usage of color contacts can even lead to blindness.

Here are certain important hygiene tips that you have to follow while using contact lenses.

Clean Hands
This is the first and basic tip to be kept in mind while using a pair of contact lenses. Always wash your hands before handling with colored lenses. Avoid using soaps containing perfumes, oil or moisturizers, as they may leave a film on hands. This will cause redness and irritation to your eyes. Keep your nails clean, short and round, else it may cause scratches on the lens. Dry your hands thoroughly with a lint free towel after each wash.

Cosmetic Usage
IT is advised to apply cosmetics after inserting the colored contact lenses. The same tip is to be followed while removing the make up also, that is, remove the make up firsts, rinse your hands properly and then remove the lens. If you are using a hairspray apply it before inserting the contact lens, else it may cause a protein shield over the lens causing irritation to your eyes.

Cleansing the lens
Cleaning your contact lens daily is an integral part. Multi purpose cleansing liquid is available in the market for rinsing and storing your contact lens.Never use tap water to clean your lens. Tap water contains many bacteria which can cause infection to your eyes. Saline solutions or hydrogen peroxide is recommendable for cleaning the contact lenses. Even if you’re using a non prescription colored contacts it is better to consult an eye specialist to choose the right solution. Do not use a solution more than one time

Hygienic storage case
Maintain a clean storage case for your color contacts. It is advisable to change your storage in every three months. Clean your storage case everyday with hot water or sterile solution and properly dry it before storing the contact lenses.

Avoid multiple usage
This is a very important tip. You must never use another persons lens neither let others use your lens also. This will cause serious infections to your eyes.

Consult a doctor
The eyes of lens wearers are very sensitive. it is preferable to wear a UV protection glass or hat when you are out in the sun. Remove the lenses and consult a doctor as soon as possible in case of irritation or redness. Colored lenses can add to your styles and beautify your eyes. But put in lots care; follow these hygiene tips for safe usage of contact lenses