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Vision Correction for High Prescriptions
While LASIK, PRK, & AK are excellent options for vision
correction for the majority of patients, Clear Lens Exchange
is the only option for those patients who have high nearsighted
and/or astigmatic corrections.At
this time, it is the only refractive option for some mild
and all high farsighted individuals
What is Clear Lens Exchange
Simply, Clear Lens Exchange is the same technology as
today's cataract surgery. With Clear Lens Exchange, the
natural lens is CLEAR (and not cloudy due to age) prior
to it's removal.
As with cataract surgery, a small incision allows precision
instruments to enter the eye. The natural inner lens of
the eye is broken up by ultrasonic fragmentation using a
vibrating titanium tip. It is then aspirated and an intra-ocular
lens (IOL) is implanted to correct the refractive error.
The architecture of the incision typically allows for a
“no-stitch” procedure.
Intra-Ocular Lens (IOL) 3x Actual size
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Small Incision Entry
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Ultra Sonic Removal of Lens
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Out-Patient Surgery Center
Measurements and tests are performed the day of your
evaluation
to determine the proper power of the IOL. In certain cases,
specialty IOL's for high prescriptions may need to be ordered.
In addition, pre- and post-op instructions are reviewed.
Only one eye is treated at a time. The surgical stay is
approximately 1 1/2 hours in our fully accredited, outpatient
surgical center. Our anesthesiology team administers topical
drops to numb the eye, and then IV sedation that helps to
minimize the discomfort associated with a local injection.
Patients do not typically report pain. The treated eye is
patched and you leave fully alert. However, you will need
someone to drive you home. If necessary, the second eye
can be treated the following week.
Typical Healing
Patients are seen initially the next day to remove the
patch and check the surgical result. Patients frequently
see 20/40 or better at this time. Visual acuity typically
increases over the next 3 weeks. Light activity can be resumed
within 48 hours and moderate athletic activity may be resumed
within 72 hours. If you lift heavy objects, please inquire
with your doctor as to when you may resume lifting.
To ensure proper healing, patients are seen post-operatively:
1 week, 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Responsibility
for post-operative examination is shared with your referring
eye care professional. If necessary, your doctor will be
able to prescribe reading glasses in approximately 1 month.
Facts to Know
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Clear Lens Exchange eliminates the ability for the natural
lens to accommodate for reading. Thus, young patients
may not be a candidate for this procedure. In these
cases, a comprehensive discussion with your doctor will
help to determine candidacy.
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Rare, but potentially serious complications are infection
and/or hemorrhaging.
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Enhancements (2nd treatment for refinement) may be necessary.
If an enhancement is necessary, it can be performed
typically 1-3 months after surgery.
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Frequently, as part of the natural long term healing
process a film will develop on the capsule behind the
IOL (the implant). This film can be removed using topical
anesthesia and the YAG laser as an outpatient.
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Never hesitate to ask your doctor questions
regarding your eye care.
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