Wavefront-shaping technology for depth of focus extension

Wavefront-shaping technology is an advanced optical engineering principle used in the design of intraocular lenses (IOLs) to extend the depth of focus (EDoF) for patients undergoing cataract or presbyopia-correcting surgery. Unlike traditional multifocal or diffractive IOLs, which split light into multiple focal points (often causing halos and glare), wavefront-shaping technology uses specially-designed, smooth surface transition elements on the anterior central optic region of the lens to modify the phase and propagation of incoming light. This shapes the emergent wavefront so that it forms a continuous, extended range of focus (from distance to functional near), improving intermediate and near vision while minimizing visual disturbances. Examples of IOLs using this technology include the AcrySof IQ Vivity and Clareon Vivity (Alcon). This technology represents a significant advance in optical device design in ophthalmology, but it is not a protein, gene, or classical therapeutic target.

Other names

Wavefront shapingNon-diffractive EDoF technologyX-Wave technology (used specifically by Alcon for Vivity IOL)