Extended depth of focus lenses

Extended depth of focus (EDoF) is a new multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) technology. An intraocular lens implant is an artificial replacement for the crystalline lens of your eye and is used to treat the following conditions:

  • Presbyopia – a gradual, age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects
  • Cataracts – a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye
  • Astigmatism – a common imperfection in the eye’s curvature

The lens of the eye is an important part of the eye’s anatomy that allows it to focus on objects at varying distances.

How EDoF lenses work

EDoF intraocular lenses bend the light entering the eye from intermediate and far distances and focus it onto a single focal point on your retina. This gives your eye the ability to focus on objects at different distances simultaneously. Extended depth of vision IOLs may reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses. 

EDoF lenses are often recommended for those who regularly use intermediate vision for things like computer work, gardening, or cooking and would like to do so without glasses. While EDOF lenses are perfect for enhancing distance and intermediate vision, some people might need reading glasses for close-up work like reading or sewing.

Benefits of extended depth of focus lenses

Unlike multifocal (MF) IOLs, which create separate focal points for distance and reading, extended depth of focus lenses make a single, elongated focal point to enhance the natural depth of focus within the eye. Simply put, this technology restores a person’s intermediate and distance vision while reducing the side effects typically associated with multifocal lenses like halos and glare. Halos and glare are common side effects for all multifocal IOLs because they divide incoming light into two or more images on the retina.

EDoF lenses allow you to see objects clearly whether they’re far away or at an intermediate distance (e.g., approximately arm’s length). This means you can enjoy several activities without needing to wear prescription glasses, such as:

  • Playing sports
  • Working on the computer
  • Driving a car
  • Watching television
  • Cleaning
  • Cooking
  • Shopping 
  • Gardening

However, it’s important to note that reading glasses may still be necessary for reading small print.

Not everyone is a good candidate for EDoF lenses. Talk to your eye specialist about your daily activities as well as your vision goals so they can help you choose the best IOL for your lifestyle. 

Please call Eye Specialists of Louisiana at 255-768-7777 to see if the extended depth of focus lenses is right for you or schedule an initial consultation.