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What is the Symfony IOL?

Symfony is an intraocular lens (IOL) that was FDA-approved in 2016 for the treatment of cataracts. It is implanted in the eye after the natural lens is removed in a custom cataract surgery. Symfony is the first in a new category of IOLs that provide full-range, continuous, high-quality vision, while mitigating effects of presbyopia (nearsightedness) to improve close-up focus.

Who is a good candidate for a Symfony IOL?

If you are planning to undergo cataract surgery, you may be a good candidate for the Symfony lens. Many patients who have this treatment experience clear vision almost immediately after the procedure. In addition to improving the full range of vision, the Symfony IOL can help you avoid the need for reading glasses. These advanced IOLs improve vision at all distances.

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Why choose Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology for a Symfony IOL in Beverly Hills?

  • At Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology, we provide premier cataract, LASIK, and glaucoma care.
  • Ours is the longest and most well-established, well-respected ophthalmology group in Beverly Hills. 
  • We are one of the first practices in Beverly Hills to perform advanced refractive surgery techniques.

What should I expect with Symfony IOL cataract surgery?

In laser cataract surgery, our Beverly Hills eye surgeon creates a precise surgical plan using sophisticated imaging known as optical coherence tomography (OCT). A tiny, self-sealing incision is created, employing a femtosecond laser at a precise location, length, and depth in all planes. The surgeon uses an ultrasound instrument to emulsify the natural lens material, aspirating it through the incision. After the lens is removed, it is replaced with the Symfony IOL. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. It takes 15 to 20 minutes to complete and causes little to no discomfort.

What is recovery like after cataract surgery with the Symfony IOL?

Recovery is minimal after Symfony IOL cataract surgery. You can expect to return to your normal activities the following day. Your surgeon will instruct you to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a week or more after the procedure. The recovery is typically smooth, easy, and rapid. Your eyes may be sensitive to light for a few days, or itch, or you may see light haloes, all of which fade quickly. You will see us for a follow-up appointment the day after your surgery, and we will closely monitor your progress during healing, which is typically uneventful.

FAQ

What are the benefits of the Symfony IOL?

The Symfony intraocular lens offers significant benefits when compared to traditional IOLs.

  • This lens is designed to treat both cataracts and presbyopia (farsightedness caused by loss of elasticity of the lens, occurring in middle and old age).
  • It simultaneously improves distance vision.
  • It provides clear vision without glare and halos around lights.
  • It provides seamless day-to-night vision, sharp and clear at near, intermediate, and far distances.

What is different about the Symfony intraocular lens?

The Symfony IOL was the first FDA-approved intraocular lens implant with extended depth of focus, for improved vision at a variety of distances. The lens was developed to help patients have clear vision without glasses or contacts after undergoing cataract surgery.

Will the Symfony lens work for people with astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a defect in the lens of the eye resulting from a deviation in spherical curvature. This deviation prevents light rays from meeting at a common focus, causing distorted images. The FDA approval of the Symfony lens on July 15, 2016, included a toric version for people with astigmatism.

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