Whether you need glasses after cataract surgery depends largely on the IOL strategy, your refractive target, the health of your eyes, and the visual tasks you want to perform without glasses.
Monofocal lenses
When a monofocal lens is targeted for distance, reading glasses are commonly needed for close work. Some patients choose a near or intermediate target instead.
EDOF and multifocal lenses
These designs are intended to expand functional vision and reduce dependence on glasses for some patients. They may involve trade-offs such as glare, halos, or changes in contrast.
Why glasses may still be needed
Even with advanced IOLs, small residual prescription errors can remain. Some activities, particularly prolonged reading or very small print, may still be easier with glasses.
The goal should be a visual strategy that fits your lifestyle rather than simply choosing the lens with the fewest glasses.
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