Odyssey: The Newest Lens in Cataract Surgery

Did you know that nearly 40% of adults aged 60-79 develop a combination of nuclear sclerosis and posterior subcapsular cataracts (Indian J Ophthalmol)? If you’re 55 or older, and are experiencing vision changes due to cataract formation, the upcoming TECNIS Odyssey Lens from Johnson & Johnson is worth looking into. Set to become available in 2025, this lens aims to provide clear vision across all distances while reducing dependence on glasses. Curious to learn more about what makes the TECNIS Odyssey IOL unique? Join us to learn all about it and see if it’s right for you.

What Is The Odyssey Lens?

The TECNIS Odyssey IOL is an advanced intraocular lens designed to replace your eye’s natural lens during cataract surgery. Here’s what you need to know:

• The Odyssey lens implant is designed to provide clear vision across a wide range, from far distances to as close as 33 cm (13 inches). This covers most daily activities, from driving to reading, effectively mitigating the effects of presbyopia.
• The lens uses a proprietary violet light-filtering chromophore. This feature not only protects your eyes by filtering ultraviolet (UV) and violet light but may also enhance color perception and minimize visual distortions commonly found in standard lenses.
• Its unique, biconvex design uses optical technologies on both the front and back surfaces. The front surface is designed to reduce corneal spherical aberration, while the back surface uses a special diffractive pattern to provide a continuous range of vision.
• The Odyssey lens is expected to perform consistently in various lighting conditions, especially for pupil sizes larger than 2.5 mm.

The Odyssey lens implant comes with the TECNIS Simplicity Delivery System, designed to promote quicker healing by streamlining the insertion process. With smaller incisions in the 2.2-2.4mm range, and a preloaded, touch-free delivery device, the steps needed to implant the Odyssey lens are fewer, making it a more efficient procedure.

Odyssey Lens Design & Material

The Odyssey lens has an overall diameter of 13.0 mm and an optic diameter of 6.0 mm, designed to fit comfortably in the eye. It’s made from a soft acrylic material that includes:

• A supplemental UV light-absorbing material.
• Proprietary violet light-filtering chromophore to reduce harmful violet light wavelengths.
• A higher Abbe number (55) for lower light dispersion and a low refractive index (1.47) to improve visual clarity.

How Does It Compare Against: Parent Design & Leading Competitor?

The Odyssey lens builds upon its predecessor, the TECNIS Synergy IOL, with optimized ring diameters and step heights in its diffractive surface. This enhancement aims to give you precision vision at every distance in any lighting. Here’s a quick comparison with another leading lens:

Post-Operative Experience and Expected Outcomes

Most patients can expect:

• Improved vision within days to weeks after surgery.
• Reduced reliance on glasses for daily activities.
• Clear vision across various distances without changing glasses.

Potential Risks and Complications?

However, individual results may vary, and some patients might experience:

• A brief adaptation period to the new lens.
• Possible visual effects like halos, glare or starbursts, especially at night.
• Possibility of reduced contrast sensitivity compared to a monofocal IOL.
• Lens is intended for capsular bag placement only.
• May not be suitable for patients with pre-existing conditions.

Regular follow-ups with your eye care professional are essential to monitor your eye health post-surgery.

Is The Odyssey Lens Right For You?

The Odyssey lens is suitable for most cataract patients over 55 who wish to reduce reliance on glasses for various distances. It’s particularly advantageous for those who:

• Seek clear vision at multiple distances without glasses.
• Lead active lifestyle or frequently use digital devices.
• Have no significant eye health issues beyond cataracts.
• Have less than 1 diopter of pre-existing corneal astigmatism.

As with any medical procedure, it’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with your eye care professional to determine if the Odyssey lens is the right choice for your specific needs.

Your Best Vision Begins With Us

At Best Cataract Surgeons, we’re dedicated to providing you with everything you need to know about modern cataract surgery in one place. Our goal is to ensure you achieve the best possible vision outcome, so if you have questions about the benefits, features, or risks of the TECNIS Odyssey IOL or any other aspects of cataract surgery, we encourage you to contact a cataract surgeon near you using our online directory.