The FDA’s Ophthalmic Devices Advisory Committee panel overwhelmingly recommended PMA approval of Alcon’s AcrySof IQ ReSTOR Multifocal Toric Intraocular Lens several years ago and the PanOptix Trifocal for patients undergoing cataract eye surgery who are astigmatic and suffer from presbyopia.

The panel voted unanimously that the intraocular lens (IOL) is safe and that the device’s benefits outweigh its risks. AcrySof IQ corrects both presbyopia and astigmatism. The PanOptix corrects near, intermediate and far vision as well as an option to correct astigmatism. The astigmatism should be reflected by the measurements of corneal curvature as any lenticular astigmatism will disappear with the removal of the catataract.

There are over 10 approved premium IOLs on the market, including three multifocal ones, one trifocal and accomodating lenses and accomodating lenses that correct astigmatism (Trulign (R)). Multifocal (presbyopia-correcting) and toric (astigmatism correcting) lenses are available internationally but have been held up by the FDA approval process in the USA for years. Now we have the same advanced technology that the rest of the world has benefitted from for years.

We have extensive experience in all of these lenses including the newest PanOptix by Alcon. The ophthalmic community at large is excited to to offer their patients this technology as well as low add (for intermediate vision) implants. Dr. Malitz can now correct virtually any prescription that can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses including extreme myopia, extreme astigmatism, extreme hyperopia, presbyopia or a combination of these refractive errors.

Use of this technology in a patient without a cataract is considered “off label” and beyond the scope of our site to discuss. Please discuss the risks and potential benefits with Dr. Malitz or a member of his well trained staff.