Specialized lenses-multifocal, accommodative or toric IOLs-cost more than standard IOLs. Until recently, Medicare and most private insurance plans would only cover the full cost of cataract surgery with standard replacement lenses.

These days, however, if you prefer specialized lenses, the cost of the cataract surgery itself will be covered. You will just need to pay the difference for cost of the specialized lenses and any additional physician services needed.

The following amounts are approximate guidelines only, based on the most commonly reported fees in the U.S. in 2009. You could be responsible for:

• For multifocal or accommodative IOLs
• From $1,900 to $3,000 per eye

• For astigmatism-correcting toric IOLs
• From $800 to $2,000 per eye

Plans and prices vary, so check with your doctor and insurance provider to see which types of lenses are covered and at what costs.

It is important to note that choosing a specialized lens is a matter of lifestyle and convenience. Standard lenses deliver an excellent quality of vision, but they require you to continue using glasses for some activities. Specialized lenses are designed to reduce your need for glasses after surgery, which can be worth the additional costs for many people.

Prices are based on Market Scope survey data and represent national averages. Prices may vary significantly in your area. ASCRS does not suggest that the price ranges or averages should prevail for any given service or product. The information is provided only as a means to help patients consider the selection of vision management options.

If you have Medicare, you will be covered for surgery once your vision is tested at a certain level of acuity or clarity. Private insurance plans may have similar requirements to meet for financial coverage. Earlier coverage may be available under special circumstances-talk to your doctor to find out if this is the case for you.

Doctors report that after surgery, many patients wish they’d done it sooner. You can opt for earlier surgery, even without insurance coverage, as many do.

When to have surgery-and what costs you will incur-are choices that are entirely up to you and your ophthalmologist.

If you have any costs for cataract surgery that are not covered by Medicare or private insurance, look into any flexible spending accounts or "cafeteria" plans offered by your employer. These accounts let you use pretax dollars for medical expenses, so your money goes farther.

Many ophthalmologists also offer you the option of paying for your surgery over time. If the idea of financing your surgery appeals to you or if you do not have insurance of Medicare coverage, ask your doctor what type of payment plans he or she offers.

Specialized or premium IOLs (like multifocal, toric and accommodative lenses) are more complex and advanced than standard monofocal lenses. Moreover, your surgeon must take additional time examining you and perform added tests and calculations to implant premium lenses. Although they cost more, premium lenses can often provide greater benefits, too, including freedom from the expenses and hassles of glasses or contact lenses.