Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides a method of designing an intraocular lens (IOL) to address variations of at least one ocular parameter in a population of patient eyes. The method can include establishing at least one eye model in which the ocular parameter can be varied over a range exhibited by the population. The eye model can be employed to evaluate a plurality of IOL designs in correcting visual acuity for eyes in the patient population. An IOL design that provides a best fit for visual performance over at least a portion of the parameter range can then be selected.

Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a multifocal ophthalmic lens includes an optic and a plurality of diffractive zones disposes about an optical axis of the optic. At least two of the diffractive zones have different areas so as to cause broadening of optical energy profiles at a near focus and a far focus of the diffractive zones for generating an intermediate focus. A fraction of incident optical energy directed to the intermediate focus is different from a fraction of incident optical energy directed to at least one of the near or far foci.