The three lens classes in plain terms
Monofocal: one focal distance, usually set for far. Sharpest optics, no halos, but you will need reading glasses. Can be set as monovision (one eye near, one far) for some spectacle independence.
Trifocal: three focal points (far, intermediate, near) created by diffractive rings. Best chance of no glasses at all. The price is a fixed percentage of light going to each focus, which means reduced contrast in dim conditions and visible halos or starbursts around lights at night for many patients, most of whom adapt within months.
Extended depth of focus (EDOF): one elongated focal zone from far through intermediate, with weaker near. Fewer and milder halos than trifocals, better dim-light contrast, but most patients still want cheap readers for small print. A compromise that suits people who drive at night a lot or dislike the idea of any halos.
| Priority | Best fit |
|---|---|
| Never want glasses, tolerate some night halos | Trifocal |
| Night driving matters most, fine with readers | EDOF |
| Sharpest possible distance vision, budget priority | Monofocal |
| Mild astigmatism on top of any of the above | Toric version of the same class |
Mix-and-match strategies
A common approach in Colombia and Europe is EDOF in the dominant eye and trifocal in the other, blending the two profiles. Another is a monofocal in the distance eye and an EDOF set slightly near in the other. These require a surgeon who does a lot of premium lens work and is willing to explain the trade-offs rather than sell you the most expensive package.
Who should not get a trifocal
- Patients with macular disease, significant glaucoma, or corneal irregularity, because diffractive optics need a healthy retina to perform
- Patients with large amounts of higher-order aberration after previous LASIK; EDOF or monofocal is safer
- Perfectionists about night vision quality
- Professional night drivers, pilots, and some visual-precision occupations
Typical 2026 Colombia pricing for RLE (per eye, not quotes)
- Monofocal RLE: USD 1,400 to 2,300
- EDOF: USD 2,200 to 3,300
- Trifocal: USD 2,400 to 3,600
- Toric versions: add USD 300 to 600
US pricing for the same premium lenses commonly runs USD 4,500 to 7,000 per eye.
What the consultation should measure
Biometry for lens power, corneal topography and tomography to exclude irregular astigmatism, macular OCT, and a dry-eye assessment. Dry eye is treated before measurement, because an unstable tear film produces wrong lens calculations. Ask which biometry formula the clinic uses for your eye length; modern formulas (Barrett, Kane, Hill-RBF) matter for accuracy.
Staying in Colombia for RLE
Surgeons usually do the second eye a few days to a week after the first. Plan 8 to 10 nights so both eyes are done and checked before you fly. Halos and neuro-adaptation continue for weeks; that part happens at home. Read the full RLE guide for the procedure itself and monofocal vs multifocal for the cataract-surgery version of this decision.
Frequently asked questions
Which lens gives the best chance of no glasses?
A trifocal. The trade is more night halos and slightly lower contrast, which most but not all patients adapt to.
Can a trifocal be swapped for a monofocal if I hate it?
Lens exchange is possible, ideally within the first months before the capsule fibroses. It is a real surgery and not guaranteed, so choose carefully up front.
Is EDOF the same as multifocal?
No. EDOF stretches one focal zone; multifocal and trifocal split light into distinct focal points. EDOF has fewer halos and weaker near vision.
Over 45 and weighing lens options?
Tell us your prescription and lifestyle priorities. We will point you to Colombian surgeons who do high volumes of premium lens work and explain the trade-offs honestly.
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