Optimal,
Natural Vision
after Cataract Surgery

This requires 5 visual functions!

Distant function
Near-intermediate function
Protective function
Mesopic function
Imaging function
5 Visual Functions for Optimal, Natural Vision
In everyday life our visual perception is achieved through the effects of 5 visual functions, to put it simply. The requirements for Optimal, Natural Vision (ONV) are met, as long as all 5 functions are operative. The interactive artwork shows you which effects the visual functions actually have on your vision in everyday life.
5
Imaging function
1
Distant function
2
Near-intermediate function
3
Protective function
4
Mesopic function

Distant function

Near-intermediate function

Protective function

Mesopic function

Imaging function

This is how the 5 visual functions work
1
Distant function
Distant Function

The distant function is responsible for sharp distance vision, e.g. when looking at the London Skyline.

2
Near-intermediate function
Near-intermediate Function

The near-intermediate function of the natural crystalline lens provides sharp, transition-free vision from far distances to close proximity. When you turn your eyes from the skyline to the smartphone, the lens changes its shape and projects a sharp image on the retina by focusing on the distance from the object viewed.

3
Protective function
Protective Function

The protective function of the natural crystalline lens arranges for a natural colour perception and protects the retina from energised, damaging light. Looking at the London sky is perceived as pleasant, while a natural blue filter protects the retina.

4
Mesopic function

Mesopic Function

The mesopic function ensures high-contrast vision even in situations of poor light conditions. Due to the special (spherical) shape of the lens you still enjoy adequate vision when there is twilight or fog. This function takes only effect when light conditions are poor.

5
Imaging function
Imaging Function

The imaging function of the cornea ensures distortion-free vision. In the event of a corneal astigmatism, the entire visual perception is distorted, incapacitating the imaging function.

What happens in a Cataract Procedure?

The purpose of a cataract procedure is to remove the natural crystalline lens that has become opaque. Consequently, the eye is now lacking the 4 functions of the crystalline lens.

5
1
2
3
4
Functions
  • 1
    Distant function
  • 2
    Near-intermediate function
  • 3
    Protective function
  • 4
    Mesopic function
  • 5
    Imaging function

Two Options for your Vision after Cataract Surgery

The missing functions may be substituted by implanting an artificial lens. There are two options:

Basis path

The basis path comprises the implantation of an artificial lens with one single visual function, that is to say the distant function. By this means the visual capability of sharp distance vision is being restored.

The picture shows your vision how it would probably be during a cataract procedure, when your natural lens is explanted, but no artificial lens is yet implanted.

Qfunctional path

The Qfunctional path comprises the implantation of an artificial lens that provides up to five visual functions. This allows to individually attain Optimal, Natural Vision after the cataract procedure.

You would like to learn more about Optimal, Natural Vision after cataract surgery? Get more information and acquire a more profound understanding of your post-cataract vision by starting the interactive ONV-Simulator.