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Monofocal vs Enhanced Monofocal vs Trifocal IOLs: A Clinical Guide for Cataract Surgeons

1 July 2026 · Curative Ophthalmology · Updated 18 September 2026

Monofocal, enhanced monofocal and trifocal IOLs

What is the difference between monofocal, enhanced monofocal and trifocal IOLs?

Monofocal IOLs have one principal focus. Enhanced monofocal lenses aim to improve useful vision beyond that focus. Trifocal lenses have distance, intermediate and near foci. Extended depth of focus (EDOF) is a separate designation: enhanced monofocal and EDOF labels should not be treated as interchangeable.

What are the main visual trade-offs?

ESCRS guidance describes multifocal lenses as offering distance, intermediate and near vision, with more halos, glare and reduced contrast than monofocal lenses. EDOF lenses can support distance and intermediate tasks with fewer unwanted visual effects than multifocal designs, but near spectacles are often needed. These are category-level considerations, not promises for a particular implant.

Which category do Gemetric and ArtIOL belong to?

HOYA identifies Vivinex Gemetric and Gemetric Plus as its trifocal family. They should not be presented as enhanced monofocal examples.

VOPTICA describes ArtIOL as a non-diffractive, inverted-meniscus platform. The ArtIOL models differ in their depth-of-focus characteristics. Assess the specific model and its current manufacturer documentation rather than assigning the entire family to a trifocal category.

How should surgeons compare lenses?

Compare model-specific evidence, ocular findings, visual priorities and tolerance for optical side effects. ESCRS recommends additional assessments when considering presbyopia-correcting implants, including ocular surface assessment, corneal imaging and posterior segment OCT. Individual suitability requires a clinical assessment.

Where can professionals enquire about Curative's IOL portfolio?

Curative portfolio and market coverage
PortfolioMarkets listed by CurativeNext step
HOYA Vivinex, including GemetricSingaporeView IOL information
VOPTICA ArtIOLHong Kong, Malaysia and ThailandRequest model-specific information

Distribution territories, registrations and stock availability are separate questions. Confirm the current model, local registration, instructions for use and evaluation arrangements with Curative before ordering.

Sources and editorial responsibility

Prepared by Curative Ophthalmology, the distributing organisation. Manufacturer descriptions are identified separately from clinical guidance. Updated 18 September 2026. This article does not represent an independent clinical review.

For professional education only. Product availability, indications and regulatory status may vary by market.
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