After cataract surgery, the type of intraocular lens (IOL) you choose plays a major role in how comfortably you see at different distances in daily life.
If your goal is greater freedom from glasses for most routine activities, an Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lens can be an excellent option.
Vision Needs in Everyday Life
In our day-to-day routine, we constantly shift focus between different distances:
- Distance Vision – Driving, watching TV, outdoor activities
- Intermediate Vision – Laptop use, cooking, shopping
- Near Vision – Reading books, using a mobile phone
EDOF lenses are specially designed to enhance distance and intermediate vision, making these activities more comfortable with minimal dependence on glasses.
What Is an EDOF Lens?
An Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) intraocular lens provides a continuous and smooth range of vision, mainly focusing on distance and intermediate tasks.
With an EDOF lens, you can comfortably enjoy:
- Watching TV ✔
- Computer and kitchen work ✔
- Mobile phone use and reading ✔ (mild reading glasses may be needed for very small print)
How Does an EDOF Lens Work?
- The lens stretches the focal range, allowing smoother vision from far distance up to arm’s length.
- This helps most patients perform distance and intermediate activities without glasses in everyday situations.
Advantages of EDOF Lenses
✔ Clear and comfortable distance & intermediate vision
✔ Reduced dependency on glasses
✔ Lower glare and halos compared to multifocal lenses
✔ More comfortable day and night driving
✔ Ideal for people who are active at work, home, and outdoors
What to Expect After Surgery
Some patients may still need:
- Mild reading glasses for prolonged reading or very fine print
- A short adjustment period as the brain adapts to the new visual system
Who Is a Good Candidate for EDOF Lenses?
EDOF lenses are especially suitable for people who:
- Want maximum independence from glasses, using them only when necessary
- Drive frequently, especially during night time
- Spend most of their time outdoors for work or leisure
- Are not ideal candidates for multifocal lenses due to lifestyle or eye-related reasons