Award-Winning San Diego Eye Surgeon

Intraocular Lens Implants

Intraocular lens implants (IOLs) are the technological heart of modern vision correction. While standard external Lenses (like glasses or contacts) sit on the surface of the eye, an IOL is a microscopic medical device implanted inside the eye to replace the natural lens.

Whether you are undergoing Cataract Surgery to remove a cloudy lens or electing for Clear Lens Exchange / Refractive Lens Exchange to correct presbyopia, the type of implant you choose defines your future vision. Dr. Lee Katzman specializes in advanced “Premium IOLs,” which are designed to do far more than just restore clarity—they aim to provide a full range of focus, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses entirely.

Beyond Standard Monofocal Implants

For decades, the standard for lens replacement was a “monofocal” implant. This basic option provides clear vision at a single distance (usually far away), meaning patients still require reading glasses for near tasks like texting or reading a menu.

Today, intraocular lens implants have evolved. Premium IOLs are designed to match the lifestyle of active patients in San Diego. During your consultation, we will assess your eye health to determine if you are a candidate for these advanced upgrades, or if other vision correction methods like LASIK or Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) might be better suited for your anatomy.

Exploring Your Premium IOL Options

At Alvarado Eye Associates, we offer a wide variety of lens technologies from the industry’s top manufacturers, including Alcon, Johnson & Johnson, and Bausch + Lomb. Because every eye is unique, we select the specific brand that aligns with your vision goals.

Light Adjustable Lenses (LAL): The Light Adjustable Lenses by RxSight® are the only IOLs that can be customized after surgery. Using UV light treatments, Dr. Katzman can fine-tune your prescription once the eye has healed, offering unparalleled precision.
Multifocal & Trifocal Lenses: These lenses feature specialized zones that split light, allowing you to see clearly at near, intermediate, and far distances. We utilize leading options like the Johnson & Johnson Odyssey™, Bausch + Lomb Envy™, and Alcon PanOptix® PRO to provide robust Presbyopia Treatments that reduce dependence on readers.
Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF): Lenses like the Johnson & Johnson TECNIS PureSee™ and Alcon Vivity® elongate the focal point, providing a seamless range of vision from distance to intermediate (computer distance) with fewer visual side effects than traditional multifocals.
Toric Lenses for Astigmatism: For patients with corneal astigmatism, standard lenses often leave vision blurry. Toric intraocular lens implants are specifically shaped to offset this irregularity, sharpening your focus without the need for additional corrective surgery.

Why Experience Matters in Lens Selection

Choosing the right implant requires more than just a prescription; it requires an expert understanding of how different lenses interact with the eye. Top manufacturers use slightly different optical strategies to achieve the desired visual effect. For example, one lens might prioritize reading clarity while another prioritizes night driving.

This is where surgeon volume matters.

As a surgeon who performs a high volume of premium cataract surgeries, Dr. Katzman has extensive experience evaluating how these specific lenses perform in thousands of unique eyes. He doesn’t just rely on manufacturer data; he relies on his own clinical outcomes to determine which lens—whether it is an Alcon, J&J, or Bausch + Lomb—is the absolute best match for your anatomy.

During your Comprehensive Ophthalmology exam, Dr. Katzman looks at the whole picture. Conditions like Dry Eye, Keratoconus, or a history of Glaucoma Surgery can influence which lens is safe for you. We will guide you toward the safest, most effective intraocular lens implants for your long-term health.

Video Transcript

At Johnson & Johnson, it is our passion and responsibility to improve your vision. The Tecnis portfolio of intraocular lenses gives you and your doctor many options for improved vision after cataract surgery. There are different types, each offering different visual outcomes after surgery. Presbyopia can be treated during cataract surgery with an advanced technology lens. Johnson & Johnson is proud to offer two advanced technology IOLs to suit each unique patient need: Tecnis Odyssey and Tecnis PureSee.

Tecnis Odyssey provides a full range of vision: distance, intermediate, and near. In fact, 93% of patients with a Tecnis Odyssey were glasses-free at all distances. Due to the design of Tecnis Odyssey, which allows you to see at different distances, some people may experience what they describe as halos or glare.

Though most patients will notice no or mild symptoms with Tecnis Odyssey, the technology associated with this type of lens may result in these visual symptoms. This is an important consideration as they can be bothersome for some patients. If your goal after cataract surgery is to wear glasses as little as possible, or if you spend a lot of time with near-vision activities such as reading, ask your doctor about Tecnis Odyssey.

You can also ask them about Tecnis PureSee. Tecnis PureSee offers distance, intermediate, and some near vision. In fact, 90% of Tecnis PureSee patients occasionally or never wore glasses. However, you may need reading glasses for small print. Tecnis PureSee has a unique design without any rings. Given this, Tecnis PureSee patients have less risk of halos or glare at night.

Tecnis Odyssey offers a full range of vision: distance, intermediate, and near vision. Tecnis PureSee offers an extended range of vision with excellent distance and intermediate, with some near vision. Ready to discuss your options? Your doctor will recommend the Tecnis lens that is right for you.

The Next Generation of EDOF Lenses: TECNIS PureSee™

As part of our commitment to offering the industry’s most advanced technology, Alvarado Eye Associates now features the TECNIS PureSee™ lens. This breakthrough Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOL bridges the gap between standard monofocal and complex multifocal lenses. It offers the premium benefit of continuous clear vision while maintaining excellent contrast and crisp nighttime driving capabilities, making it a top choice in its category.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do intraocular lens implants last?

Unlike contact lenses or prescription glasses that need frequent updates, intraocular lens implants are designed to be permanent. They are made from biocompatible materials that do not degrade over time, meaning one procedure can provide a lifetime of clear vision.

Is the implantation procedure painful?

No. Whether performed during cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange, the procedure is minimally invasive. We use numbing drops and twilight sedation to ensure you are completely comfortable. Most patients report feeling only light pressure, and the procedure is typically completed in under 20 minutes.

Can I get a premium IOL if I have had LASIK before?

Yes, many patients who had laser vision correction in the past can still receive premium intraocular lens implants. However, prior LASIK changes the corneal shape, which makes calculating the lens power more complex. Dr. Katzman utilizes advanced mapping technology to ensure accurate measurements for post-LASIK eyes.

Does insurance cover premium IOLs?

Generally, insurance covers the cost of standard monofocal lenses as part of medically necessary cataract surgery. Premium upgrades—such as those for astigmatism or multifocal vision—are typically considered elective “lifestyle” enhancements and incur an out-of-pocket cost. Our team will provide a transparent breakdown of all options during your visit.

Lee Katzman, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologist and recognized leader in modern cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange (RLE), with particular expertise in premium lens technology. Based in San Diego, CA, Dr. Katzman is also a clinical investigator and educator and has been featured and quoted in national media including Forbes, USA Today, and the New York Post.

Take Control of Your Vision with Advanced Lens Technology

At Alvarado Eye Associates, we are dedicated to providing advanced vision solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Under the expert care of Dr. Lee Katzman, our team ensures that every patient receives personalized attention and access to the latest optical technology. If you are tired of relying on glasses or want to maximize your vision during cataract surgery, Premium IOLs might be the ideal solution.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Katzman today to learn more about how our advanced intraocular lens implants, including the Light Adjustable Lens, PanOptix®, and Vivity®, can help you achieve better vision and improve your quality of life. Contact Alvarado Eye Associates in San Diego to take the first step toward visual freedom.