What Is a Phakic Lens?
Phakic lenses are thin lenses, similar in thickness to contact lenses, that are implanted into the eye. These lenses are placed in front of the eye's natural lens, taking over its function and improving vision. Phakic lenses are used to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. These lenses eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, thereby enhancing the quality of life. They remain securely in the eye and do not need to be removed or maintained like contact lenses, nor are they felt in the eye. Phakic lenses were first designed in 1977 and have since been improved to a more modern design. They are virtually invisible from the outside once implanted.
Types of Phakic Lenses
Phakic lenses come in various types, each with specific advantages:
- ⬩Phakic Intraocular Lenses (PIOLs): These lenses are placed either in front of or behind the natural lens. They remain permanently in the eye and correct vision. Phakic intraocular lenses are ideal for individuals who are not suitable candidates for laser surgery.
- ⬩Artisan Lenses: These lenses are placed between the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the cornea. They are effective in correcting vision defects.
- ⬩Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens): These lenses are placed behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. Made from a flexible material, they can remain in the eye for many years.
Who Can Have Phakic Lens Surgery?
There are many treatment methods used today to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Among these methods are excimer laser (iLASIK, LASEK, PRK), astigmatic keratotomy, and clear lens extraction. The most commonly preferred method among these is excimer laser treatment, also known as laser treatment. However, laser treatment requires an ideal corneal thickness, corneal map, and a certain degree of refractive error. Excimer laser treatment may not always be the ideal treatment for your eyes, which is why other alternative treatment methods have been developed specifically for these eyes. One of the most secure, permanent, and stable treatment methods among these is the phakic lens method.
Advantages of Phakic Lenses
Phakic lenses have many advantages:
- ⬩Glasses-Free Vision: Phakic lenses provide freedom by eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
- ⬩Permanent Solution: Phakic lenses are permanently placed in the eye and can work effectively for many years.
- ⬩High Success Rate: Phakic lens surgeries are generally successful, with most patients experiencing satisfactory results.
- ⬩No Harm to Eye Health: Phakic lenses do not harm eye health and preserve the natural eye structure.
Pre-Operative Evaluation for Phakic Lens Surgery
Your doctor will first assess your vision levels and determine your prescription. Following this evaluation, the depth of the eye chamber (anterior chamber depth) where the phakic lens will be placed will be measured using special devices. After evaluating the cell count in the cornea, it will be determined whether your eye is suitable for a phakic lens.
Is There Any Issue with Having Laser Surgery or Cataract Surgery After Phakic Lens Placement?
There is no problem with having laser surgery or cataract surgery in eyes that already have phakic lenses.
If cataracts develop, the phakic lens will be removed, and a new lens will be placed after the cataractous lens is removed.
What Should Be Considered Before Surgery?
It is advisable to stop taking aspirin, coumadin, etc., days before the operation. Our anesthesiologist will discuss fasting times with patients who will receive general anesthesia. Patients who will receive local anesthesia can have a light breakfast or meal without any issues.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
Before the operation, you will be given a sedative medication in your room. The operation can be performed under local anesthesia and sedation. In other words, your doctor will apply local anesthetic drops to prevent you from moving your eye and feeling pain. Usually, no pain is felt during the operation, only a slight touch sensation. Patients who receive local anesthesia will be awake and able to communicate with the doctor. In some cases, if deemed appropriate by your doctor, general anesthesia may also be given. After sterilizing your eye, a small tool will be placed to keep your eyelids open. A short incision will be made in the cornea after the operation. During the placement of the phakic lens, your doctor will inject a viscoelastic substance behind the cornea, in front of the colored iris layer, to protect the corneal endothelial cells. The phakic lens will be placed through a small corneal incision without touching your natural lens. The operation takes about 30 minutes.
What Will I Feel During the Surgery?
After the surgery, you will be taken to your room to rest. There is no harm in going home after resting for a few hours. Your eye will be closed on the day of the operation. You may feel pain or stinging while your eye is closed, which is normal. There is no harm in taking a painkiller. You will return for a follow-up visit the day after the surgery, and you will be instructed on how to use your prescribed eye drops. Following the operation, your eye may experience redness, tearing, and light sensitivity, especially in the first few days. Blurred vision may continue for a few weeks. These symptoms will improve as you use your eye drops. Do not rub your eyes, and avoid getting water or soap in them in the first few days.
How Much Does Phakic Lens Surgery Cost?
The cost of phakic lenses varies depending on the underlying cause and the operation to be performed. The treatment plan created by our specialist eye doctor based on a detailed examination can vary from person to person.
For appointment and price information, please click here.The above information is for informational purposes only. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please schedule an appointment with our eye doctors.