When you’re thinking about cataract surgery, it’s normal to focus on the medical side of things: the lens options, the procedure, the risks and the recovery. But one of the most important and most overlooked parts of choosing an intraocular lens (IOL) is understanding how your everyday lifestyle affects which lens will feel best for you. Your hobbies, your favourite activities, your personality and how you visually interact with the world all shape what “good vision” really means for you.
Two people can have the same eye measurements and clinical needs but make completely different decisions based on how they spend their time. That’s why choosing an IOL isn’t just a medical choice it’s a lifestyle choice too. If you love reading, you might prioritise crisp near vision. If you spend hours cycling, playing golf or driving at night, you may need excellent distance vision with minimal glare. If you’re a musician, crafter, painter or avid traveller, certain lenses may feel more comfortable than others.
In this guide, I’ll help you explore how your hobbies can influence your IOL choice in a practical, easy-to-follow way. You’ll learn how different lenses behave, which types are best for specific activities, and how to think about your vision needs based on what you love doing most.
Why Your Hobbies Matter When Choosing an IOL
Choosing an IOL isn’t just about what you want to see it’s also about how you want to feel while seeing. Every lens type comes with its own strengths and trade-offs. Some lenses provide the most natural, crisp distance vision but may still require you to use reading glasses for close work. Others offer a wider range of focus from near to far but can introduce side effects like halos, glare, or slightly reduced contrast, especially in dim lighting. Understanding these differences is the first step in making a choice that feels right for your everyday life.
This is exactly why your hobbies matter so much. Your daily activities reveal what your eyes truly need. Think about the tasks you spend the most time on: Do you mostly look at distant objects or switch between distances quickly? Do you rely on bright, sharp contrast for hobbies like reading small print, painting, or photography? Do you often work in low light, experience glare easily, or need accurate colour and depth perception for things like driving at night, playing sports, or crafting? By considering these factors, you’re not just choosing a lens you’re choosing how comfortably and confidently you’ll see the world every day.
A Simple Way to Understand the Different Types of IOLs
A simple way to understand the different types of IOLs is to look at how each one handles focus, clarity, and light. Every category of lens is designed with a specific purpose in mind, and knowing these basics makes it much easier to match a lens to your lifestyle.
Monofocal IOLs (Standard): Monofocal IOLs are the standard lens option and come with a single focal point, usually set for clear distance vision. They offer the most natural, high-contrast clarity with minimal glare and halos, making them excellent for night-time visibility and everyday tasks that rely on sharp distance focus. However, because they don’t provide a range of vision, you will still need glasses for reading, close work, and many intermediate activities.
Enhanced Monofocal IOLs: These lenses are essentially upgraded monofocals designed to offer excellent distance vision with the added benefit of improved intermediate clarity. They bridge the gap between far and mid-range tasks while keeping visual disturbances such as halos and glare to a minimum. This makes them a great choice if you want sharper computer, dashboard, and everyday mid-range vision without sacrificing the crisp quality of standard monofocals.
EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) IOLs: These lenses extend your focus from distance to intermediate, giving you a broader range of clear vision without relying on multiple focal points. They tend to feel more natural compared to multifocal lenses and usually produce only mild halos, which are noticeably less than what trifocals may cause. However, you’ll still need glasses for fine reading or very close-up tasks.
Multifocal or Trifocal IOLs: Multifocal and trifocal IOLs provide vision at near, intermediate and distance ranges, giving you the widest span of glasses-free sight. They offer maximum independence from spectacles, which is their biggest advantage. However, this comes with some trade-offs, including halos, glare, reduced contrast sensitivity and less clarity at night. These lenses are best for people who prioritise broad visual freedom and are comfortable with the possibility of experiencing some optical side effects.
Toric Variants: Toric variants are available for people who have astigmatism, and they can be paired with almost any IOL type monofocal, enhanced monofocal, EDOF or multifocal. These lenses correct the uneven curvature of the cornea, providing sharper, clearer vision across all distances. Choosing a toric version ensures you get the full benefit of whichever lens style you prefer, without the blur caused by uncorrected astigmatism.
Matching IOLs to Your Hobbies: A Practical Breakdown
Matching IOLs to your hobbies is one of the most practical ways to understand which lens will genuinely fit your day-to-day life. Instead of thinking only about “near” or “distance,” it helps to imagine how you actually use your eyes during the activities you love. Different hobbies place different visual demands on clarity, contrast, depth perception and lighting conditions.
With that in mind, here’s a clear, activity-focused breakdown to help you picture how each IOL type performs in real, everyday situations so you can choose the lens that genuinely supports the way you live, work and enjoy your free time.
IOL Choices for Sports
Sports demand quick visual judgement, sharp distance vision and dependable clarity in all kinds of lighting. Even small issues like glare or reduced contrast can affect performance more than you realise. That’s why choosing the right IOL for your specific sport is so important.
Here’s a simple, activity-focused guide to help you understand which lens types support different sporting needs.
Golf: Golf demands sharp distance vision, reliable depth perception and the ability to track the ball clearly in bright sunlight. For most golfers, monofocal, enhanced monofocal or even certain EDOF lenses work best because they provide excellent brightness, contrast and minimal glare key factors for reading the course and following the ball. Trifocal lenses are generally less suitable if you’re sensitive to halos, particularly during early-morning or late-evening play.
Tennis, Badminton and Squash: Racquet sports like tennis, badminton and squash require quick focus shifts, strong depth perception and as few visual artefacts as possible. Monofocal, enhanced monofocal and toric versions (if you have astigmatism) are generally the best choices because they offer stable, predictable clarity with minimal distractions exactly what you need to follow fast-moving shots and react instantly.
Cycling: Cycling demands strong distance vision, wide peripheral awareness and low-glare optics, especially since lighting conditions often change throughout a ride. Monofocal, enhanced monofocal and EDOF lenses tend to work best because they provide clear, stable vision with minimal visual disturbances. Multifocal lenses, on the other hand, can feel uncomfortable for cyclists due to the increased risk of glare and reflections from roads, vehicles and shiny surfaces.
Swimming or Water Sports: For swimming and water sports, the type of IOL you choose matters less than factors like dryness and light sensitivity, since water itself creates distortions that affect how clearly you see. Monofocal and toric monofocal lenses are generally the most practical choices because their simple, stable optics perform more reliably in an environment where vision is naturally altered. Complex lenses, such as multifocals, tend to offer little advantage in water and may feel less comfortable overall.
Running and Hiking: Running and hiking call for clear distance and intermediate vision, strong contrast and all-day outdoor comfort. Monofocal, enhanced monofocal and EDOF lenses generally offer the best balance, giving you stable clarity for reading terrain, spotting obstacles and navigating changing light conditions. While trifocals can work for some people, runners who are sensitive to halos may find them distracting around streetlights or in low-light environments.
IOL Choices for Music and Performance
When it comes to music and performance, your visual needs depend strongly on the instrument you play, the distances you work at and the lighting of your stage or rehearsal environment. Some musicians need crisp near vision for sheet music, while others rely more on intermediate clarity to read cues, watch conductors or track bandmates. Performance lighting can also create glare, making lens choice even more important for comfort and accuracy.
Musicians (General): Most musicians rely on clear intermediate vision to read sheet music, operate mixers or play their instruments accurately. Enhanced monofocal and EDOF lenses are often ideal because they provide stable, comfortable clarity at these mid-range distances. Trifocal lenses can also be considered for those who prefer greater independence from glasses, though they may come with minor visual side effects like halos.
Pianists and Keyboard Players: For pianists and keyboard players, the typical viewing distance is around 50–70 cm in well-lit, stable indoor conditions, making mid-range clarity essential. EDOF and enhanced monofocal lenses are excellent choices, providing smooth, comfortable focus, while trifocals can also work for those seeking glasses independence.
Guitarists, Violinists and Wind Instrument Players: These musicians often need to shift focus frequently between their instrument, sheet music and conductors. EDOF and trifocal lenses are well-suited to handle these rapid changes, offering a wider range of clear vision.
Orchestra and Stage Musicians: Orchestra and stage performers require clear vision at multiple distances and minimal glare under bright stage lighting. EDOF and enhanced monofocal lenses usually provide the most stable, comfortable clarity, while trifocals may cause unwanted glare depending on individual sensitivity.
IOL Choices for Reading, Crafting and Close Work
When your hobbies involve fine detail, close-up tasks or long periods of concentration, choosing the right IOL becomes especially important to ensure comfort and precision.
Reading Books or Tablets: For reading, comfortable near vision is key. Trifocal lenses work well for those who want to minimise glasses use, while monofocal lenses remain a solid option if you’re happy using reading glasses.
Knitting, Sewing and Needlework: These very close-up activities demand sharp near focus. Trifocals are ideal, though monofocals set for near vision can work in rare cases. Enhanced monofocal lenses paired with reading glasses are another practical option.
Painting and Art: Artists need accurate colour perception, smooth depth perception and good mid-range clarity. EDOF and enhanced monofocal lenses generally provide the best balance, while standard monofocals can also work. Trifocals may sometimes cause slight contrast loss, which can affect fine shading or subtle detail work.
IOL Choices for Travel and Everyday Activities
Travel and everyday activities demand flexible vision because your eyes constantly switch between different tasks and distances. Choosing the right IOL can make these daily experiences more comfortable and safer.
Frequent Travelling
When you travel often, you need clear distance vision, reliable intermediate vision for reading signs or using screens, and minimal glare in bright environments. EDOF, enhanced monofocal and standard monofocal lenses are all excellent choices for these needs.
Photography
Photographers rely on high contrast, accurate colour perception and dependable depth perception. Monofocal, enhanced monofocal and EDOF lenses provide the clarity needed for capturing fine details, though trifocal lenses may slightly affect contrast depending on lighting conditions.
Driving (Day and Night)
Strong distance vision, excellent contrast sensitivity and minimal halos are critical for safe driving, especially at night. Monofocal and enhanced monofocal lenses, including toric versions for astigmatism, are best suited, while trifocals are generally not recommended for drivers who frequently drive in low-light conditions.
How to Prioritise Your Hobbies When Choosing an IOL
When choosing an IOL, prioritising your hobbies can help you pick a lens that truly fits your lifestyle. Start by asking yourself three simple questions.
1. Which distance do you use most for your hobbies?
The first thing to consider is which distance you use most for your hobbies. Activities like reading and crafting rely heavily on near vision, while playing music typically requires intermediate focus. Driving and most sports demand clear distance vision, and travelling often involves both distance and intermediate tasks. Identifying these patterns helps guide which type of IOL will best support your everyday activities.
2. Are you sensitive to glare or visual artefacts?
The next factor to consider is whether you are sensitive to glare or other visual artefacts. If you notice discomfort from halos, reflections, or reduced contrast, monofocal or enhanced monofocal lenses are usually the safest choice. If you aren’t particularly sensitive, EDOF or trifocal lenses can be considered, as they offer a wider range of vision with minimal compromise for most people.
3. Do you want maximum glasses independence?
Finally, consider whether you want maximum independence from glasses. If your goal is to reduce or eliminate the need for spectacles, trifocal or EDOF lenses are usually the best options. If you don’t mind using glasses for certain tasks, monofocal or enhanced monofocal lenses can provide excellent vision with fewer visual side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I choose an IOL specifically for my hobbies?
Yes, your hobbies play an important role in deciding which IOL will best support your lifestyle. While the medical aspects of cataract surgery like corneal health, eye measurements, and surgical safety are crucial, considering how you use your vision daily ensures your lens choice aligns with the way you live. People who spend a lot of time reading, playing sports, or performing music may prioritise different focal ranges, contrast levels, and glare tolerance, which can guide the type of IOL that feels most comfortable after surgery.
2. Will a multifocal or trifocal IOL eliminate the need for glasses completely?
Multifocal and trifocal lenses can significantly reduce dependence on glasses for near, intermediate, and distance vision, but they may not guarantee complete independence. Some patients still require reading glasses for very fine print or glasses for certain tasks under low-light conditions. The effectiveness of these lenses also depends on individual factors such as pupil size, corneal shape, and sensitivity to visual artefacts.
3. Are monofocal IOLs suitable for sports and outdoor activities?
Monofocal lenses are often excellent for sports and outdoor activities because they provide crisp distance vision and minimal visual disturbances like halos or glare. They deliver predictable and stable clarity, which is important for activities such as cycling, golf, or driving. The main trade-off is the need for reading glasses or intermediate vision aids for near tasks, but for sports and daytime outdoor use, they are highly reliable.
4. How do EDOF lenses compare to trifocals for daily activities?
EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) lenses provide a smooth range of vision from distance to intermediate, creating a natural visual experience for most everyday activities. Unlike trifocals, they typically cause fewer halos and less glare, making them ideal for people who are sensitive to visual artefacts. However, EDOF lenses may still require glasses for very close-up work, such as reading fine print or intricate crafting. Trifocals, on the other hand, give the broadest range of vision without glasses but may introduce more visual side effects in low-light or high-contrast environments.
5. Can toric IOLs correct astigmatism along with lifestyle needs?
Yes, toric IOLs are designed to correct astigmatism while maintaining the specific vision benefits of the lens type you choose. They can be applied to monofocal, enhanced monofocal, EDOF, and even multifocal lenses, which means you can tailor both the optical correction and the lifestyle advantages of your IOL. Correcting astigmatism helps sharpen vision across all distances and makes your overall visual experience more comfortable, whether you’re reading, driving, or performing sports.
6. Are there any limitations for musicians or artists when choosing an IOL?
Musicians and artists may need specific focal ranges or accurate colour perception to perform optimally. Pianists and keyboard players often benefit from mid-range clarity for sheet music and instrument keys, while visual artists require smooth depth perception and precise colour rendering for painting and fine crafts. Certain lens types, such as trifocals, may slightly reduce contrast or colour fidelity, which could affect shading or subtle visual tasks. Understanding these requirements helps narrow down the lens choice to those that support your creative work best.
7. How does glare affect IOL choice for driving or outdoor hobbies?
Glare can significantly impact night driving or activities in bright sunlight. Patients sensitive to glare typically do better with monofocal or enhanced monofocal lenses, as these offer the clearest, most stable vision with minimal optical artefacts. Lenses that split light, such as multifocal or trifocal options, may increase the perception of halos or reflections, which can be distracting during driving or outdoor sports. Assessing your sensitivity to glare is therefore crucial when selecting your IOL.
8. Will I need glasses after EDOF or multifocal IOL surgery?
While EDOF and multifocal IOLs reduce dependence on glasses, many patients still need them for very fine near tasks. Reading small print, doing intricate needlework, or seeing tiny details on digital devices may require supplemental eyewear. The extent of glasses use depends on your visual needs, the type of IOL, and how your eyes adapt post-surgery. Most people, however, experience a significant reduction in the frequency of needing glasses.
9. Can I combine different IOL types for different eyes?
Yes, some patients opt for a blended or “monovision” approach, where one eye receives a lens optimised for distance vision and the other for near or intermediate vision. This can be done with combinations of monofocal, enhanced monofocal, or even EDOF lenses, depending on your visual priorities. This approach allows a balance of clear vision at multiple distances while potentially reducing dependence on glasses, though it may require a short adaptation period for the brain to adjust.
10. How do I prioritise hobbies when choosing an IOL?
Prioritising hobbies involves thinking about the distances you use most, your sensitivity to glare, and how important glasses independence is to you. Activities like reading, crafting, or tablet use demand near vision, while sports, driving, and travel rely on distance or a combination of distance and intermediate focus. By reflecting on these daily visual needs and how you interact with your environment, you can select a lens type that supports your lifestyle and ensures comfortable, practical vision after cataract surgery.
Final Thought: Making the Right IOL Choice for Your Lifestyle
Choosing the right IOL is about more than just achieving clear vision; it’s about supporting the way you live and enjoy your hobbies every day. By thinking carefully about the distances you use most, your sensitivity to glare, and how independent you want to be from glasses, you can select a lens that truly fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re an avid reader, a musician, a sports enthusiast, or a frequent traveller, the type of IOL you choose can make a significant difference in comfort, clarity, and overall visual satisfaction. If you’re considering IOL surgery in London, you can get in touch with us at London Cataract Centre to discuss your lifestyle, vision goals, and the lens options that best suit you.
References:
1. Seo, K., Lee, S., Kim, H. et al., 2025. Comparative Outcomes of the Next‑Generation Extended Depth‑of‑Focus Intraocular Lens and Enhanced Monofocal Intraocular Lens in Cataract Surgery. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/14/14/4967
2. Comparative efficacy and safety of all kinds of intraocular lenses in presbyopia‑correcting cataract surgery: a network meta‑analysis. BMC Ophthalmology. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11020619/
3. Comparison of postoperative visual performance between trifocal intraocular lens and monofocal intraocular lens. Saudi Medical Journal. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37182920/
4. Olsen T., Morshita R., et al., “Comparative analysis of visual outcomes with 4 intraocular lenses: Monofocal, multifocal, and extended range of vision,” Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (2018). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0886335018301032
5. Fernández, J.J., et al., 2022. Early outcomes of vision and objective visual quality analysis after cataract surgery with trifocal intraocular lens implantation. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6796088/