Understanding Phakic IOLs – How Do They Work?

Phakic IOLs are a revolutionary solution for individuals who have vision problems and want a long-term solution to correct their eyesight. These lenses provide a permanent correction to refractive errors, offering improved vision without the need for traditional contact lenses or glasses. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of permanent eye lenses, including how they work, how they are implanted by ICL surgery, the types available, and who can benefit from them.

Whether you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, permanent lens for eyes can provide you with clear and sharp vision. They are designed to be implanted in the eye to correct the shape of the cornea or lens, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. Unlike traditional contact lenses, permanent eye lenses are not removable and provide a long-lasting solution to vision problems.

What Are Phakic IOLs?

Phakic IOLs also known as implantable contact lenses or some people may refer to them as permanent contact lenses, are a type of vision correction option that is surgically implanted in the eye. These lenses are made of biocompatible materials and are designed to correct refractive errors by altering the way light enters the eye. They are placed either in front of the natural lens or between the cornea and the natural lens, depending on the specific type of permanent eye lens used.

Unlike traditional contact lenses, which are placed directly on the surface of the eye, Phakic IOLs are positioned inside the eye. This eliminates the need for daily insertion and removal, making them a convenient option for individuals who are looking for a more permanent solution to their vision problems.

The History of Permanent Eye Lenses

The concept of using artificial lenses to correct vision dates back centuries. However, the development of permanent lenses for eyes as we know them today began in the late 20th century. The first FDA-approved Phakic IOLs, known as the Phakic Intraocular Lens (IOL), was introduced in the 1980s.

Since then, advancements in technology and surgical techniques have led to the development of various types of permanent eye lenses that offer improved safety, efficacy, and visual outcomes. These lenses are now widely used around the world to provide long-term vision correction for individuals with different types of refractive errors.

How Phakic Intraocular Lenses Work

Permanent lenses for eyes work by altering the way light enters the eye and is focused on the retina. Depending on the specific type of permanent lens used, they either change the shape of the cornea or adjust the position of the natural lens, or both.

For individuals with nearsightedness, permanent eye lenses flatten the cornea to correct the refractive error. This allows the light to focus properly on the retina, resulting in clear distance vision. On the other hand, for individuals with farsightedness, the permanent lenses steepen the cornea to enhance near vision. For individuals with astigmatism, the permanent lenses can correct the irregular shape of the cornea, providing clearer vision at all distances.

The specific technique used to implant the permanent eye lenses may vary depending on the type of lens and the individual’s eye anatomy. However, the overall goal is to ensure that the lens is securely placed in the eye and provides the desired correction for improved vision.

Phakic Eye Lenses vs Traditional Contact Lenses & Glasses

Phakic lenses for eyes offer several advantages over traditional contact lenses and glasses. Unlike contact lenses, which need to be regularly cleaned, removed, and replaced, permanent eye lenses are designed to be a long-term solution. They eliminate the need for daily maintenance and reduce the risk of eye infections or discomfort that can be associated with contact lens wear.

Furthermore, permanent eye lenses provide a more natural and consistent vision correction compared to glasses. Glasses can sometimes cause visual distortions due to the way they refract light. With permanent eye lenses, you can enjoy a clear and uninterrupted field of vision without the limitations of glasses.

Additionally, permanent eye lenses can provide a wider range of vision correction compared to traditional contact lenses, including high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. They can also be a suitable option for individuals who are not eligible for laser eye surgery.

However, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional to determine if you are a suitable candidate for permanent eye lenses and to discuss the potential risks and benefits.

Types of Permanent Eye Lenses

There are several types of permanent eye lenses available, each designed to address specific vision problems and individual needs. Some of the commonly used permanent eye lenses include:

Phakic Intraocular Lenses (PIOLs): These lenses are implanted in front of the natural lens and are suitable for individuals with moderate to high degrees of refractive errors.

Iris-Claw Lenses: These lenses are placed between the iris and the natural lens and are primarily used for the correction of extreme nearsightedness.

Toric Lenses: These lenses are designed to correct astigmatism and can be implanted in front of or behind the natural lens.

The specific type of permanent eye lens recommended for you will depend on various factors, including your eye anatomy, the severity of your refractive error, and your surgeon’s recommendation. 

Who Can Benefit from Permanent Eye Lenses?

Permanent eye lenses can benefit individuals who have moderate to high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, and are looking for a long-term solution to correct their vision. They can be a suitable option for individuals who are not eligible for laser eye surgery or are seeking an alternative to wearing glasses or traditional contact lenses.

It is important to note that permanent eye lenses are typically recommended for individuals who have stable vision and are at least 21 years old. Your eye care professional will evaluate your eye health, refractive error, and overall suitability for permanent eye lens surgery during a comprehensive eye examination.

If you are considering permanent eye lenses, it is advisable to consult with an experienced eye surgeon who specializes in refractive surgeries to discuss your options and determine if you are a suitable candidate.

Permanent Eye Lens Surgery – Procedure

The permanent eye lens surgery, also known as implantable contact lens surgery, is a safe and effective procedure that is performed by an experienced eye surgeon. The surgery typically involves the following steps:

Preoperative Assessment: Your eye surgeon will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes to evaluate your refractive error, eye health, and suitability for the surgery. This may include measurements of your cornea, pupil size, and anterior chamber depth.

Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. You may also be given a sedative to help you relax.

Lens Implantation: A small incision is made in the cornea to create a pocket or a tunnel where the permanent eye lens will be placed. The lens is carefully inserted and positioned in the desired location within the eye.

Closing the Incision: Once the lens is in place, the incision is closed using tiny sutures or self-sealing techniques.

Postoperative Care: After the surgery, you will be provided with instructions on how to care for your eyes during the recovery period. It is essential to follow these instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and you will be able to return home on the same day. It is normal to experience some mild discomfort or blurry vision initially, but this usually improves within a few days.

It is important to note that like any surgical procedure, permanent eye lens surgery carries some risks and potential complications. These may include infection, inflammation, dry eyes, and the need for further surgical interventions. It is essential to discuss these risks with your eye surgeon and make an informed decision about the surgery.

 

Pros and Cons of Phakic IOLs

Phakic IOLs offer several advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before opting for this vision correction option.

 

Pros:

• Long-term solution: Phakic IOLs provide a long-lasting solution to vision problems without the need for daily insertion and removal.
• Natural and consistent vision correction: Unlike glasses, Phakic intraocular lenses offer a more natural and consistent vision correction without visual distortions.
• Wide range of vision correction: They can correct a wide range of refractive errors, including high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
• Suitable for individuals not eligible for laser eye surgery: These lenses can be a suitable alternative for individuals who are not eligible for laser eye surgery.

Cons:

• Surgical procedure: Phakic IOLs implantation involves a surgical procedure, which carries risks and potential complications.
• Need for regular follow-up visits: After the surgery, you will need to have regular follow-up visits with your eye care professional to ensure the health and stability of your vision.
• Potential for additional surgeries: In some cases, additional surgeries may be required to fine-tune the vision correction or address any complications that may arise.
• Cost: They can be more expensive than glasses or traditional contact lenses, and may not be covered by insurance.

Potential Risks and Complications of Permanent Eye lens

While permanent eye lenses are generally considered safe and effective, there are some potential risks and complications associated with the surgery that should be taken into consideration, such as:

Infection: Like any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. It is important to follow the postoperative care instructions provided by your eye surgeon to minimize this risk.

Inflammation: Some individuals may experience temporary inflammation or irritation in the eye after the surgery. This can usually be managed with medication and resolves on its own.

Dry eyes: The surgery may temporarily affect the production of tears, leading to dry eyes. This can be managed with artificial tears or other lubricating eye drops.

Glare and halos: Some individuals may experience glare or halos around lights, especially at night. This can occur due to the shape or position of the permanent eye lens. In most cases, these visual disturbances improve over time.

Need for additional surgeries: In some cases, additional surgeries may be required to fine-tune the vision correction or address any complications that may arise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, permanent eye lenses represent a remarkable advancement in vision correction, offering enhanced clarity and freedom from the constraints of traditional eyewear. By seamlessly integrating into the eye’s natural structure, these lenses provide a long-term solution to refractive errors, ensuring lasting visual acuity and comfort. As technology continues to evolve, the future promises even more refined options, further improving the quality of life for those seeking reliable and effective vision correction solutions.