No glasses after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery significantly improves visual quality in most cases. The choice of target refraction and the appropriate lens implant for you can also reduce dependence on glasses. Here you’ll learn what lens options are available, which factors influence visual outcomes, and what costs you may incur.

What lens options are available for cataract surgery?

  • Monofocal lenses: Maximum visual acuity and best contrast at one distance
  • Toric lenses: Correction of astigmatism (“corneal curvature”)
  • EDoF lenses: Extended depth of focus
  • Multifocal lenses: Extensive freedom from glasses with possible side effects

Which factors influence freedom from glasses after cataract surgery?

Whether freedom from glasses can be achieved after cataract surgery depends on various factors. The choice of implanted lens plays a crucial role here. Equally important is the individual baseline visual situation, i.e., what refractive errors existed previously. Additionally, lifestyle and personal visual habits influence the decision for a particular lens implant.

Options for reducing the need for glasses

Different methods are available to minimize the need for glasses after surgery. Multifocal lenses offer multiple focal points, so that both distance and near vision are largely possible without glasses.

Monovision refers to the strategy of targeting one eye for near vision and the other for distance vision to achieve a certain independence from glasses. Additionally, refractive procedures such as LASIK or PRK can be combined to achieve the best possible result.

Advantages and disadvantages of increased freedom from glasses

Advantages:

  • Increased independence from glasses or contact lenses in daily life

Disadvantages:

  • Higher costs, as EDoF, toric, and multifocal lenses are not covered by health insurance
  • Potential side effects, such as increased glare sensitivity or halo effects at night
  • Limitations in suitability for certain eye diseases or special baseline eye conditions (risks)

Follow-up care and possible complications

A conscientious healing process is crucial to ensure stabilization of vision. In some cases, a so-called posterior capsule opacification can develop – a clouding of the remaining lens capsule, which can however be treated quickly and easily with laser. If necessary, glasses are fitted a few weeks after surgery to ensure optimal visual quality.

Costs and insurance questions

Costs vary depending on the type of implanted lens. Standard monofocal lenses are usually fully covered by health insurance. Multifocal, EDOF, or toric lenses incur additional costs that must be paid privately.

Which lens is right for me?

Preoperative consultation is essential to select the individually most suitable lens. Patients should ask themselves the following questions:

  • Does wearing glasses bother me?
  • Which distance (near, far, or intermediate range) is particularly important to me?
  • Am I willing to accept possible visual side effects?
  • What demands does my profession or private daily life place on my vision?

Do you have further questions about cataract surgery or would you like to schedule a consultation appointment? Our team at FIRST SIGHT Eye Clinic directly at Zurich Main Station is happy to help you.

We offer you comprehensive, individual consultation – from choosing the optimal lens implant to aftercare – so that you can go into your cataract surgery well-informed and reassured.

Book an appointment

Further Information

Everything about cataract surgery: Procedure and surgical techniques

After cataract surgery: Follow-up care and care

Cataract symptoms: Recognizing signs

Cataract causes: Recognizing and preventing risk factors

Lens options for cataract surgery: Advantages and disadvantages