In traditional cataract surgery, the natural lens is removed and an artificial, monofocal lens is implanted. A mono-focal lens is designed to help you see clearly at a singular focal point, whether it be near, intermediate, or distant.
A multifocal lens is a lifestyle or presbyopia-correcting lens. Its goal is to reduce your dependence on glasses and/or contacts following cataract surgery by giving you clear near-, intermediate-, and distance vision.