PanOptix Pro Lens: Next-Generation Vision for Premium Cataract Surgery in Brisbane
Cataract surgery has changed fundamentally over the last decade. For many patients today, the goal is no longer limited to removing a cloudy lens and restoring basic distance vision. Increasingly, patients are looking for high-quality vision across distance, intermediate, and near tasks, with reduced reliance on glasses.
The PanOptix Pro intraocular lens, developed by Alcon, represents the next evolution of trifocal lens technology. It builds on the widely used PanOptix lens, with optical refinements aimed at improving visual quality, contrast, and overall tolerance—particularly for patients considering premium cataract surgery in Brisbane.
What Is PanOptix Pro?
The PanOptix Pro is a next-generation trifocal intraocular lens designed to provide functional vision at three key distances:
Distance – driving, television, outdoor activities
Intermediate – computers, dashboards, cooking
Near – reading, phones, menus
Unlike standard monofocal lenses, which usually require glasses for near and intermediate vision, PanOptix Pro is designed to reduce dependence on spectacles across a wide range of daily activities.
How PanOptix Pro Is Different from the Original PanOptix
The original PanOptix lens established trifocal technology as a mainstream option in premium cataract surgery. PanOptix Pro does not replace this foundation—it refines it.
Key Improvements in PanOptix Pro
1. Improved light utilisation
PanOptix Pro captures approximately 94% of incoming light, compared with around 88% in the original PanOptix design. More usable light reaching the retina is associated with brighter, clearer vision, particularly in indoor or low-light environments.
2. Reduced light scatter
Optical bench testing demonstrates significantly reduced light scatter with PanOptix Pro. Lower scatter is linked to improved image clarity and may reduce the perception of glare and halos, particularly around lights at night.
3. Enhanced contrast sensitivity
Refinements in optical design aim to improve contrast performance, helping patients distinguish subtle differences in brightness. This can be particularly relevant for reading in dim light, dusk driving, or visually demanding tasks.
4. Refined trifocal optics (ENLIGHTEN NXT technology)
PanOptix Pro incorporates updated diffractive optics designed to distribute light more efficiently across distance, intermediate, and near focal points, supporting smoother transitions between viewing distances.
These improvements are based on optical modelling, bench testing, and early clinical experience. As with all new technology, longer-term and larger clinical studies continue to emerge.
Early Access in Australia and Timing of General Release
PanOptix Pro is scheduled for general commercial release in Australia in March 2026. Ahead of this broader release, early access was provided to a small cohort of Australian cataract surgeons with extensive experience in refractive and premium cataract surgery.
Dr David Gunn has had early access to PanOptix Pro since November 2025, allowing careful introduction of the lens into clinical practice prior to general availability. Early results from this initial experience have been encouraging, with good visual outcomes and patient satisfaction reported, while maintaining a cautious and measured approach to patient selection.
Early access programs exist to allow surgeons to understand how new lenses perform in real-world settings before they become widely available.
Who May Be Suitable for PanOptix Pro?
PanOptix Pro is a premium lens, and suitability depends on careful assessment rather than marketing claims.
Patients who may benefit include:
Those seeking reduced dependence on glasses at multiple distances
Patients with healthy retinas and relatively regular corneas
Individuals with realistic expectations who understand the benefits and trade-offs of trifocal lenses
Patients who may be less suitable include:
Those with significant macular disease
Patients with untreated corneal irregularity
Individuals who prioritise maximum contrast above all else, particularly for night driving
A thorough pre-operative consultation is essential to determine whether PanOptix Pro is appropriate.
PanOptix Pro and Premium Cataract Surgery in Brisbane
Premium cataract surgery is not defined by the lens alone. Outcomes depend on:
Detailed pre-operative measurements and eye health assessment
Accurate biometry and lens calculations
Careful surgical technique
Clear communication about expected outcomes and limitations
For Brisbane patients who remain active, use digital devices extensively, and value visual independence, PanOptix Pro represents an additional option within a broader premium cataract surgery strategy.
A Balanced View
PanOptix Pro represents a refinement, not a revolution, in trifocal lens design. It will not be the right choice for every cataract patient, and it does not eliminate the need for careful assessment or realistic expectations.
For appropriately selected patients undergoing premium cataract surgery in Brisbane, PanOptix Pro offers a thoughtful evolution of an already well-established technology—aimed at improving visual quality, comfort, and day-to-day usability.
Dr Gunn’s Approach to Premium Lens Surgery
Dr Gunn is a fellowship-trained cataract, corneal, and refractive surgeon with a strong focus on premium IOLs and advanced optical technologies. He was also the first in Australia to introduce techniques such as CAIRS (for keratoconus) and CLEAR lenticule extraction. His practice offers:
• Personalised lens selection based on lifestyle and visual priorities
• Advanced surgical planning using ray tracing–enabled technology
• Experience with new-generation lenses like the Rayner Galaxy IOL
• Meticulous surgical technique in a modern, well-equipped facility
Patients from Brisbane, interstate, and overseas choose Dr Gunn for his reputation in complex and premium vision correction procedures.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Whether the Panoptix Pro IOL is placed during cataract surgery or as part of refractive lens exchange, the process is straightforward and performed as a day procedure:
• Conducted under heavy sedation and local anaesthetic
• Surgery takes approximately 15 minutes per eye
• Most patients experience visual improvement within days
• Minimal discomfort and a fast return to normal activity
Post-operative care is included, and patients receive a tailored follow-up schedule to monitor vision, optimise recovery, and fine-tune results if needed.
Learn More or Book a Consultation
The Panoptix Pro IOL represents a another step forward in intraocular lens improvments —offering patients high-quality, glasses-free vision.
Alcon Professional – Clareon PanOptix Pro
https://www.myalcon.com/professional/cataract-surgery/iols/clareon-panoptix-pro/
Alcon Investor News – Expansion of IOL Innovation with PanOptix Pro
Clinical overview of trifocal intraocular lenses
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/multifocal-intraocular-lenses
To discuss whether the PanOptix Pro lens is right for you, book a personalised consultation via drdavidgunn.com.au/contact.
Premium vision deserves premium planning—and with Dr David Gunn’s expertise and access to the most advanced lens technology, patients can feel confident they’re receiving world-class care tailored to their eyes. Read more about cataracts here and here.
DR DAVID GUNN - CORNEA, CATARACT AND LASER EYE SURGEON
MBBS (Hons I), BSc, CertLRS, FRANZCO, FWCRS
Dr. David Gunn, a respected ophthalmologist based in Brisbane, specialises in managing corneal diseases, cataract surgery, and advanced laser and refractive eye procedures at the Queensland Eye Institute. He graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Queensland and was awarded the prestigious K.G. Howsam gold medal during his ophthalmology training.
As an innovator in his field, Dr. Gunn has a special interest in topographic laser eye surgery procedures. His introduction of the Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segment surgery to Australia in May 2021 stands as testament to his drive for innovation, putting him among a select few surgeons worldwide performing this technique.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Gunn contributes to future developments in ophthalmology as a senior lecturer at the University of Queensland and through his active engagement in eye disease research.
However, what truly defines Dr. Gunn's work is his unwavering dedication to patient care. His pursuit of innovation and commitment to education all aim towards one goal: to enhance the lives of his patients through exceptional eye care. For Dr. Gunn, improving vision means improving life, a philosophy that continues to guide his practice in Brisbane.