The TECNIC Odyssey intraocular lens is one of the latest to hit the market. It was granted FDA approval in October 2024 and is made by Johnson & Johnson. Like others in its field, it’s a multifocal IOL that’s fitted during cataract surgery. It’s designed to correct age-related far-sightedness (presbyopia).
One of the biggest draws of having a multifocal IOL fitted after is the possibility of life without needing glasses. While this isn’t a guarantee, the Odyssey intraocular lens dramatically increases the likelihood of not needing, or having far less reliance, on prescription eyeglasses.
The Odyssey is the latest multifocal IOL designed to provide clear vision at all distances. In direct contrast to a monofocal lens, which is one that contains a prescription to allow you to focus at a single distance (most usually at a far distance), the Odyssey uses cutting-edge technology to mimic the natural focusing ability of a healthy, correctly functioning eye lens.
This means that the need or reliance on eyeglasses is reduced or removed completely.
As with all IOLs, the Odyssey lens replaces the cataract-diseased lens. This is carried out with a short, 20-minute procedure in the doctor’s office. Recovery generally takes around six to eight weeks, although many people report much-improved vision within as little as 24 hours after surgery.
The Odyssey lens has a unique design that integrates three fields of vision into the lens. Unlike trifocal glasses, there’s no need to look up or down to focus at different distances. Instead, the lens does all the work, allowing your brain to naturally interpret the light signals flowing through the eye and provide accurate focus at far, mid, and near distances.
In addition, the cutting-edge tech also reduces many historical IOL side effects, such as seeing halos, light bursts, and flashes of light. It also has been shown to give the best results in this class of IOL for sharp vision in reduced light scenarios.
The Odyssey IOL also comes in a “Toric” version, which can correct astigmatism.
Happily, the Odyssey IOL is suitable for many people. As it’s a premium IOL, you will need to undergo a laser-assisted cataract procedure, as opposed to a traditional one. This means that the internal structure of the eye is mapped by a computer program. This provides the surgeon with the exact size, depth, and location of the incision, which is made by laser, as well as incredible precision when siting the IOL within the lens capsule.
The Odyssey can be considered for those who:
In similarity to many other multifocal and premium lenses, the Odyssey may not be suitable for those with:
The Odyssey IOL has a high degree of success, with the vast majority enjoying a much-reduced reliance on eyeglasses. In addition, over 93% of people report that they haven’t any of the historical IOL side effects (halos, starbursts, glare, etc.).
The choice of IOL used during cataract surgery is determined by many things. While a basic, monofocal option is still an option, advancing technology has brought a range of cutting-edge options that can truly turn back the hands of time and, potentially, bring about incredibly youthful eyesight.
While we can’t promise miracles, what we can do at the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic is determine which of the very latest IOLs, such as Odyssey, will best suit your unique eye profile.
Discover more about this purpose-built facility, our expert team, and the range of cataract care available at https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com