Scientists have developed an eye drop that can dissolve cataracts A whole lot better than surgery.

[Dark n Stormy Knight]

70. I'd like to see cost a reduction in costs so that anyone who wants it can afford

presbyopia-correcting IOLs to be implanted during cataract surgery. I've just begun to suffer presbyopia and it's a total fking pain in the ass that all the print in the world seems to have been put through a Shrinky Dink oven! I'm almost looking forward to cataracts so I can get the PCIOLs implanted--if I can afford it. Which I probably can't.

If you need cataract surgery, you may have the option of paying extra for new presbyopia-correcting IOLs (intraocular lenses) that potentially can restore a full range of vision without eyeglasses.

Multifocal and accommodating IOLs are the two main types of presbyopia-correcting IOLs. These IOLs may offer significant advantages over conventional single-vision IOLs, which typically provide clarity at near, intermediate, or distance ranges — but not all three at once.

For example, a single vision or monofocal IOL might enable you to see objects at a distance, but you would still need reading glasses for sharp near vision. Or you might be able to see objects close-up, but you would still need eyeglasses to drive.

The FDA approved certain presbyopia-correcting IOLs only within the last several years. This means that, for the first time, people undergoing a cataract procedure have a chance to simultaneously correct for presbyopia and thus achieve independence from reading glasses. Remember, however, that for certain near vision activities you may still benefit from wearing eyeglasses, even if you do choose a multifocal or accommodating IOL.

But aren't presbyopia-correcting IOLs a lot more expensive? How much extra do I have to pay?

Presbyopia-correcting IOLs are more expensive because they cost more for companies to develop and produce, and because extra surgeon skill is required for a procedure that includes the use of these lenses. Also, extra care must be taken with these lenses to make sure you receive the exact right prescription for your eyes. Costs vary, depending on the lens used, but you can expect to pay up to $2,500 extra per eye. Otherwise, basic costs of cataract surgery are covered by Medicare and most other health insurance policies.

Why won't Medicare or health insurance cover the full cost of presbyopia-correcting IOLs?

A multifocal or accommodating IOL is not considered medically necessary. Medicare or private insurance typically will pay only the cost of a basic intraocular lens and accompanying cataract surgery. Use of a more expensive, presbyopia-correcting lens is considered an elective refractive proc

edure, a type of luxury, just as LASIK and PRK are refractive procedures that also typically are not covered by health insurance.http://www.allaboutvision.com/faq/presbyopia-iols.htm