Contrast sensitivity, glare, and visual function: diffractive multifocal versus bilateral monofocal intraocular lenses.

We measured contrast sensitivity binocularly in different light conditions in nine patients with bilateral diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) and nine patients with bilateral monofocal IOLs. In general, the diffractive multifocal group had a lower mean contrast sensitivity. Patients completed a questionnaire that asked about their vision under daylight, twilight, and sunshine conditions. Monofocal patients had complete visual restitution in all light conditions. Multifocal patients reported several visual problems, especially when driving at night, but also in normal daylight and cloudy weather conditions.