Following developments in ophthalmic surgery over the past decade, there are now more safe and effective procedures for permanently correcting vision problems. Gone are the days where your only options were glasses, contacts or just to accept worsening vision.
Laser surgery has become increasingly popular. But there now exists a genuine option in cases where laser surgery is deemed inappropriate. From cataract removal with lens implant to the refractive lens exchange, there are now surgical procedures for a broad range of opthalmic conditions.
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of visual impairment, and we are more likely to encounter this problem the older we get. They are caused by a build up of protein on the natural lens of your eye, causing it to become cloudy. This can eventually lead to near or complete blindness if left untreated.
need not be the case! Through demystifying the lens implant procedure, we can help people take a step toward liberation from the challenges of vision impairment.
The procedures
Following a consultation with your surgeon, you may be assessed as being a candidate for lens replacement surgery. There are three main types of surgery currently available.
- Implantable contact lens – An artificial lens is implanted to complement and correct your own lens.
- Refractive lens exchange – This is where your own lens is surgically removed and replaced with an artificial lens.
- Cataract removal with lens implant – The cloudy lens is carefully removed and replaced with an artificial substitute.
Each of these procedures usually lasts around 15 minutes per eye. It is advisable to allow seven days between each eye. Before the operation, you will receive anesthetic in the form of eye drops. This will numb your eye completely before your lenses are removed. A second liquid may then be applied, which helps to soften the tissue that holds the natural lens in place. The surgeon will then use the latest surgical equipment to implant the artificial lens.
The lens
These implants are made of a collagen polymer. Collagen is a substance that is present in connective tissue throughout your body. Because it is very similar to the bodies own collagen, it is not seen as foreign, which results in it being accepted well when implanted.
The selection of lens will be individually tailored to your needs. Your eyes will be examined and tested before the procedure to determine what prescription you will need. This information is then used to decide what type of procedure and lens is best for you.
What happens next?
Some patients experience mild discomfort following the procedure, which typically resolves quickly. Your surgeons may provide you with anti-inflammatory drops to take home. Most people can return to normal activities within two weeks, although this should be discussed with your surgeon. The treatment is considered safe, but your surgeon will also discuss things to look out for post-operatively to ensure a good recovery.
If you have more questions about lens replacement surgery, contact your local ophthalmologist for more information.
