[As a person with low vision who studies presence, I really appreciate the potential value of the simulator described in this summary report from Eyes on Eyecare. Follow the links, particularly to the company’s press release (also available via PR Newswire) and website, for more information. –Matthew]

VirtuaLens launches with VR-based IOL simulator

By Alex Delaney-Gesing
September 4, 2025

VirtuaLens has officially launched as an eyecare medical technology company with a first-of-its-kind virtual reality (VR)-based technology: the Immersive intraocular lens (IOL) Simulator.

A new company and product?! Where to begin?

We’ll start with the company.

Headquartered in Cedar Park, Texas, VirtuaLens is focused on changing—and transforming—how patients and surgeons approach the cataract IOL selection process.

How: By enabling patients to “try on, ”explore, and compare various lenses in realistic, lifestyle-based scenarios prior to undergoing cataract surgery.

The intent is two-fold:

• Giving patients the opportunity to make more informed decisions
• Assisting surgeons with delivering personalized care by integrating immersive visuals into the consultation process
  • Ideally, this translates to increased conversions on premium lenses
  • Click here and scroll to “Why it matters” for a breakdown of potential increased revenue per patient and month

And this is done through its simulator?

Indeed. The company’s flagship product is designed to help patients—and their families—compare how each lens type may enhance their vision in various contexts and situations (nighttime driving, reading, computer work, etc.).

More specifically, the simulator is reported to provide the following:

• Real-life scenarios: Patients can experience different lens options in varying environments
• Family engagement: Family members can view the same simulations in this try-on process
• Side-by-side lens comparisons: A virtual visualization shows the lifestyle advantages of certain advanced lenses over standard options

How, exactly?

Via a simulated experience through the VirtuaLens VR headset.

Here’s a look at the entire 3-to-5-minute process:

• First: During their in-office visit, a patient places the VR headset over their head and eyes and then selects a scene to view.
• Second: The patient then chooses an IOL lens type (more on those in a moment) to wear while viewing the scene.
• Third: The simulated scene then appears on screen and the patient can see what each lens option will look like in real life (check out an example of this simulation view here).

And which patients can use this?

Aside from the obvious (cataract patients), those with:

• Astigmatism
• Glare/halos/starbursts
• Hyperopia
• Myopia
• Presbyopia

Plus: Patients wearing glasses can keep them on while using the VR headset.

And take note: VirtuLens emphasized that the simulation is customizable for patients based on their respective ocular condition and selected lens type.

Speaking of those lens options …

Patients can experience premium lenses such as (but not limited to) basic, multifocal, toric (near and far), light-adjustable, and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOLs.

• The company also hinted that a glasses option is coming soon, where patients will be able to experience simulations while wearing progressive, bifocal, and trifocal glasses.

Now let’s talk equipment—what comes with this simulator?

The IOL Simulator is packaged in the VirtuaLens kit (see here for a visual), intended for easy setup and equipped with:

• A headset and stand
• Tablet and stand
• Two USB-c chargers
• Pre-loaded VR scenes
• Training materials (accessible via a QR code)

Next up: the cost.

An exact number isn’t listed on the product’s website—the company asks interested customers to reach out for a quote.

And lastly, what if I want to try this out for myself before purchasing?

Schedule a demo here.