TECNIS Synergy Intraocular Lens (IOL)

The TECNIS Synergy intraocular lens (IOL) is placed during cataract surgery to replace the eye’s cloudy natural lens and give clear vision at far, arm’s length, and close-up. Cataract surgery is the only way to remove a cataract and is a common outpatient procedure with a strong safety record. 1

Synergy (model ZFR00V and toric versions) is an FDA-approved, presbyopia-correcting lens that blends extended-depth-of-focus and multifocal optics to provide a continuous range of vision. The FDA’s Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data describes a randomized, controlled study supporting its approval. 2

Step 1: Cataract removal and lens placement. After numbing drops, the surgeon makes a tiny opening, removes the cloudy lens, and places the Synergy IOL into the lens capsule. Most people go home the same day; the operation often takes less than an hour per eye. 3

Step 2: Choosing your setup. Synergy comes in standard and toric versions to also correct regular corneal astigmatism during the same surgery. Your team may target both eyes for distance, create mini-monovision (one eye slightly nearer), or tailor the plan to your daily tasks like driving, screens, and reading. 4

Good candidates usually have healthy eyes (clear cornea, healthy macula and optic nerve), want less dependence on glasses for most activities, and understand that night halos/glare can occur with presbyopia-correcting lenses. Your surgeon will match lens choice to your lifestyle and goals. 5

Certain conditions (significant macular disease, corneal scars or very irregular astigmatism, uncontrolled inflammation) may reduce quality of vision with multifocal or EDOF optics; careful screening and dry-eye treatment improve results. Discuss your driving needs, pupil size, and any prior LASIK or PRK. 6

What insurance covers: In the U.S., Medicare and many insurers cover medically necessary cataract surgery with a conventional monofocal IOL. Choosing a presbyopia-correcting upgrade like Synergy to reduce glasses is typically an out-of-pocket addition while the base surgery remains covered. Always confirm with your plan. 7

Typical patient costs: Trusted medical sources report that wider-range lenses (multifocal/EDOF) often add about $3,000–$4,000 per eye in U.S. practices, with prices varying by city, surgeon, and what’s included (diagnostics, technology fees, enhancements). Ask for a written estimate that lists surgeon, facility, anesthesia, lens, and follow-up. 8

• Premium IOL upgrade, refractive planning, possible toric astigmatism correction, and non-routine follow-up may be included.
• Smart planning: ask about financing, HSA/FSA use, and whether enhancements (e.g., laser touch-ups) are included or discounted.

Benefits: Synergy is designed to give strong distance and intermediate vision with functional near, helping many people reduce day-to-day dependence on glasses. Presbyopia-correcting lenses in general improve uncorrected near and distance vision and can increase spectacle independence when eyes are healthy and measurements are precise. 9

Limitations and trade-offs: All multifocal/EDOF IOLs can cause halos, glare, and a small drop in contrast sensitivity, especially in low light; careful selection and counseling help manage these effects. Randomized data for ZFR00V show a broad range of vision vs. a monofocal control, but individual results vary with ocular surface health and residual prescription. 10

Vision often improves within days, with most healing in a few weeks. You’ll use prescribed eye drops, avoid heavy lifting and swimming briefly, protect the eye, and return for checkups to confirm the lens position and clarity. Follow your surgeon’s timeline for driving, work, and exercise. 11

Months or years later, a common haze called posterior capsule opacification (PCO) can blur vision. If that occurs, a short in-office YAG laser opening can restore clarity. Keep routine eye exams and call urgently for sudden pain, flashes, or a big drop in vision. 12

A randomized, subject- and evaluator-masked trial comparing ZFR00V (Synergy) with a monofocal control reported non-inferior distance acuity and improved range of vision at intermediate and near, supporting its role in presbyopia correction after cataract surgery. 13

The FDA’s approval summary details the multicenter U.S. study (272 subjects, 15 sites) and notes the toric models were supported by the same optical platform; these data guide real-world use and counseling. 14

Who to see: The most relevant specialist is a cataract and refractive ophthalmologist who regularly implants presbyopia-correcting and toric IOLs. Medicare policy allows patients to pay for the presbyopia-correcting features while the base cataract surgery remains covered; your practice should explain how this applies to you. 15

How Kerbside can help: Use Kerbside to connect with the right specialist for a medical education consult (not a physician–patient relationship). Bring your glasses prescription and medicine list. Ask for an itemized estimate and what follow-up is included. After cataract surgery with an IOL, Medicare Part B also covers one pair of glasses or one set of contact lenses—ask how this is handled at your clinic. 16