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EDOF Lens vs. Trifocal Lens – Key Differences, Pros, & Cons

March 22, 2025

Introduction

The field of cataract surgery has come a long way, and patients have numerous premium intraocular lens (IOL) options to see clearly again. Among the most frequent dilemmas of cataract patients in recent times is selecting the optimal lens implant for their eyes – especially between Trifocal Lens and EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) Lens.

Both Trifocal lenses and EDOF lenses provide clear vision following cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange (RLE) but differ fundamentally in several areas that affect the quality of vision, range of focus, nighttime vision, and patient satisfaction in general.

You are planning cataract surgery and are confused about what type of lens you should have? This detailed guide will tell you:

  • What is an EDOF Lens and a Trifocal Lens?
  • The main differences between the two.
  • Pros and cons.
  • Which lens is ideal for you?

You will have a clear idea of EDOF Lens vs. Trifocal Lens to make an informed choice about your eye health by the end of this article.

What is an EDOF Lens (Extended Depth of Focus Lens)?

An EDOF Lens is a kind of high-end intraocular lens (IOL) offering extended range of vision from distance through to intermediate vision with very little compromise to vision quality.

The main objective of an EDOF lens is to extend the range of clear vision so that the patients are able to see:-

  • Far distance (such as driving, watching TV).
  • Intermediate distance (such as using a computer, mobile, or reading a menu).
  • Lower dependency on glasses but may still need to use glasses for very fine near tasks (such as reading small print or threading a needle).

How Does an EDOF Lens Work?

EDOF lenses employ sophisticated optical technology to extend the light focus over an array of distances, enabling the patient to view more clearly from distance through to intermediate without dividing light into different focal points (as with Trifocal Lenses).

The greatest advantage of EDOF lenses is that they offer:-

  • Sharp distance and intermediate vision.
  • Less visual disturbances (halos and glare) in the evening.
  • Improved contrast sensitivity (sharper and clearer vision).

What is a Trifocal Lens?

A Trifocal Intraocular Lens (IOL) is a multifocal lens that allows for clear vision at three separate distances:-

  • Far distance (such as driving or watching TV).
  • Intermediate distance (such as computer use or cooking).
  • Near distance (such as books, mobile screens, or sewing).

Trifocal lenses divide light into three focal points enabling patients to see at all distances without the use of glasses. Therefore, they are perfectly suited to individuals desiring absolute spectacle independence following cataract surgery.

How Does a Trifocal Lens Work?

A Trifocal Lens has a unique concentric ring design that divides the incident light into three focal points (distance, intermediate, and near). This enables the patient to:-

  • See clearly at all distances without glasses.
  • Carry out day-to-day activities without visual assistance.
  • Have clear near vision for reading, phone use, and fine work.

Yet, Trifocal lenses sometimes create visual disturbances like:

  • Halos or glare in the dark.
  • Mild decrease in contrast sensitivity (sharpness of vision).

Pros & Cons of EDOF Lens vs. Trifocal Lens

Advantages of EDOF Lens

  • Excellent distance and intermediate vision clarity.
  • Minimal glare, halos, or night vision problems.
  • Better contrast sensitivity (sharper vision).
  • Ideal for driving, TV viewing, and computer use.
  • Fewer visual disturbances.

Disadvantages of EDOF Lens

  • Might still require reading glasses for detailed near work.
  • Mild compromise on 100% spectacle independence.

Benefits of Trifocal Lens

  • Has clear vision at all distances without spectacles.
  • Suitable for patients seeking 100% spectacle independence.
  • Ideal for reading, working, driving, and outdoor activities.

Drawbacks of Trifocal Lens

  • Higher likelihood of halos, glare, and starbursts at night.
  • Somewhat compromised contrast sensitivity.
  • May take longer to get used to quality of vision.

Which Lens is Ideal for You – EDOF or Trifocal?

Whether you should have an EDOF Lens vs. Trifocal Lens is determined by:-

Opt for EDOF Lens If:-

  • You prefer sharper, clearer distance and intermediate vision.
  • You spend a lot of time driving in the evening and do not desire any halos or glare.
  • You don’t mind sometimes wearing reading glasses for extremely fine print activities.
  • You prefer natural and high-contrast vision.

Opt for Trifocal Lens If:-

  • You desire 100% freedom from glasses for distance, intermediate, and near activities.
  • You do not object to mild glare or halos at night.
  • You desire unobstructed near vision without glasses.
  • You are willing to tolerate minor visual disturbance.

Cost Comparison: EDOF Lens vs. Trifocal Lens in India

The prices of EDOF lenses and Trifocal lenses differ depending on the hospital, surgeon skill, and location.

Lens Type – Approximate Cost (Per Eye)

EDOF Lens – Rs 60,000 – Rs 90,000

Trifocal Lens – Rs 70,000 – Rs 100,000

Conclusion

Deciding between an EDOF Lens and a Trifocal Lens relies solely on your lifestyle, vision expectations, and personal preferences.

  • If sharper vision with minimal glare or night problems is a priority, an EDOF Lens would be a good option.
  • If you wish to have full independence from glasses for all distances, a Trifocal Lens will be best.

At our Hospital, our skilled cataract surgeons will assist you in selecting the most appropriate lens for your eyes based on your specific visual requirements.

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Ojas Eye Hospital A Center of Excellence for Contoura Vision, Femto Bladefree Lasik in Mumbai, India.