Zelenak Eye Institute · Wixom, Michigan
AcrySof IQ Monofocal Lens: Cataract Surgery in Michigan
Alcon's proven standard monofocal IOL — outstanding distance clarity, a glistening-free hydrophobic acrylic platform with over 20 years of clinical history, and the cleanest possible nighttime visual profile.
About This Lens
The AcrySof IQ Monofocal IOL (model SN60WF) by Alcon is the world's most widely implanted cataract lens, with over 20 years of clinical use and tens of millions of successful implantations. It uses an aspheric optical design that reduces spherical aberration by -0.20 μm, improving image contrast and visual quality compared to older spherical IOLs, while maintaining the simplicity and predictability that make monofocal lenses the gold standard for cataract surgery.
The defocus curve is sourced from the Alcon Vivity FDA registration study (PMA P200041), where AcrySof IQ SN60WF served as the monofocal control arm (n=111 bilaterally implanted subjects). It confirms outstanding distance vision with a sharp, predictable fall-off toward intermediate and near, and no halos, rings, or contrast loss at night.
Clinical Performance
Defocus Curve — AcrySof IQ Monofocal
The defocus curve below is based on published binocular clinical trial data, showing visual acuity (logMAR) across a range of distances. Lower values indicate sharper vision. The gray dashed line shows a standard monofocal lens for comparison. Stars reflect clinical performance at distance, intermediate, and near based on the published data.
Source: Alcon Vivity FDA PMA P200041 (control arm); AcrySof IQ SN60WF, bilateral implantation, n=111 subjects, 6-month binocular defocus curve. PMC11143991 combined analysis (n=228): mean UDVA -0.019 logMAR, DCIVA at 66cm 0.196 logMAR.. Lower logMAR = better vision. 0.0 = 20/20. Green shaded area = functional vision (20/32 or better). Gray dashed = monofocal reference.
Key Features
What Sets the AcrySof IQ Monofocal Apart
- World's most implanted IOL: over 20 years of clinical history with tens of millions of successful implantations globally
- Aspheric optical design: -0.20 μm spherical aberration correction improves image contrast and low-light visual quality versus spherical IOLs
- AcrySof hydrophobic acrylic material: glistening-free, proven to have the lowest rate of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) compared to competing materials
- Zero halos or rings at night: standard monofocal design produces no nighttime visual disturbances
- SureEdge optic design: square-edge posterior optic design reduces PCO and secondary cataract formation
- UV and blue-light filtering: proprietary chromophore filters both UV and high-energy visible (blue) light for long-term retinal protection
Patient Candidacy
Who Is the AcrySof IQ Monofocal Best For?
AcrySof IQ is an excellent choice for patients who prioritize outstanding distance clarity and the simplest, most predictable outcome — accepting that reading glasses will be needed for near tasks.
- Patients who are comfortable wearing reading glasses for near and intermediate tasks
- Patients who place the highest priority on nighttime visual quality with zero side effects
- Patients with pre-existing eye conditions (such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or dry eye) where premium multifocal or EDOF lenses may not be recommended
- Patients who want the most proven, time-tested IOL available
- Patients with astigmatism who prefer a monofocal outcome (the AcrySof IQ Toric version corrects astigmatism)
Patients who want to reduce dependence on reading glasses should discuss EDOF or trifocal options with Dr. Zelenak. AcrySof IQ provides excellent distance clarity but will not reduce the need for reading glasses.
Getting Started
Discuss the AcrySof IQ Monofocal with Dr. Zelenak
Dr. Zelenak will evaluate your eyes, review your visual goals, and help you determine whether the AcrySof IQ Monofocal is the right lens for your cataract surgery. No two patients are the same, and lens selection is one of the most important decisions in cataract surgery.
Visit our Custom Cataract Surgery page to learn about the full lens selection process, or review our Cataract Surgery FAQ for common questions.
Schedule a Lens Consultation
Serving patients in Wixom, Novi, Northville, Livonia, and Metro Detroit.
