Phakic IOLs

Some people call them intra-ocular contact lenses.

Phakic IOL surgery is designed for patients who are either severely nearsighted or severely farsighted, and who have not had any type of corrective eye surgery.  Usually patients who are candidates for Phakic IOL surgery are not candidates for the more popular PRK, LASEK, or LASIK surgery.  During Phakic IOL surgery, an intra-ocular lens is placed in the eye in one of three locations, depending upon the IOL chosen.  The natural lens is left undisturbed.  The Phakic IOL can be removed in the future if necessary.

On the day of your surgery, you will be scheduled to arrive at the surgery center one hour before your appointment time.  The surgery center staff will prepare you for the procedure by giving you a sedative and cleaning around your eye.  You will receive drops and a local anesthetic for numbing the surgical site.  After your eye is numb, an eyelid holder will be inserted between your eyelids to keep you from blinking during the surgery.

Stitches are not required after inserting the lens.  The intra-ocular lens is held in place by the natural pressure of the eye.

You will return home shortly after the surgery, and you will be instructed to relax.  Your vision will show improvement almost immediately after your surgery, but you should have someone drive you home.  Normal activities may be resumed within a day or two.

Be sure to have all your questions answered by your ophthalmic specialist.  Serious complications are rare, but let your surgeon know of any discomfort or loss of vision which may occur after your procedure.