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Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery (PIOL)

In this type of procedure, a specially designed lens is implanted into the eye and placed in front of the natural lens. This can improve lens power and correct your eyesight. It is called "phakic" because the natural lens remains untouched. This procedure can correct a wide range of prescriptions, including long-sightedness, short-sightedness, and astigmatism. It is also suitable for high or complex prescriptions that conventional laser eye surgery cannot address.

The PIOL surgery is designed to reduce your dependence on contact lenses and eyeglasses, allowing you to lead an active lifestyle more easily. It has several advantages over corneal techniques, making it a suitable choice for high prescriptions. It also offers superior contrast sensitivity, lower production of aberrations (light scatter), and maintains the natural accommodation of the eyes compared to lens replacement surgery.

At Optimal Vision, we use three popular options for PIOL surgery:

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

The ICL is a soft and flexible lens positioned in the eye between the natural lens and the iris. The latest version, known as EVO/EVO+ Visian ICL, is an additive vision correction method that does not remove corneal tissue. It works in harmony with the natural eye to provide exceptional vision quality.

IPCL (Implantable Phakic Contact Lens)

The IPCL functions like regular contact lenses to correct refractive errors but works from inside the eye rather than on the surface. It does not require daily maintenance, such as cleaning and removal. It can treat a wide range of prescriptions, including long-sightedness (hyperopia), short-sightedness (myopia) up to -30, presbyopia, and astigmatism.

AC IOLs (Anterior Chamber Phakic Lenses)

AC IOLs are positioned in front of the iris and are divided into categories such as angle-supported and iris-claw lenses like Artisan lenses. These lenses are used for high prescriptions and complex cases of long-sightedness.

Before the Treatment

  • Transport Arrangement You should not drive alone for a few days after the surgery. Arrange for a family member or friend to accompany you to the clinic, or use a transport service. They should be with you during the surgery, treatment, and follow-up appointments.
  • Meet Your Surgeon At the clinic, your eye surgeon will greet you, discuss the procedure in detail, and answer any questions you may have.
  • Anaesthetic Application Your optometrist will apply dilating and anaesthetic eye drops, and you will receive light sedation to relax. You will be aware of the procedure but will feel comfortable and relaxed.

During the Treatment?

  • Preparing for the Treatment The surgeon prepares your eye by making a tiny opening on the eye surface, which serves as the entry point.
  • Lens Implantation The new lens is implanted and secured in place, either in front of or behind the iris, depending on the lens type. The iris is the circular structure in your eye that determines eye colour.
  • Eye Guard and Ointment After the lens is inserted, your surgeon will apply eye drops and cover the eye with a patch or shield to ensure cleanliness and protection.

After the Treatment

  • Slight Discomfort You may experience mild discomfort and pain as the anaesthetic wears off. Over-the-counter painkillers can help manage this if necessary.
  • Relax and Recover You will be advised to rest at home. If your other eye requires surgery, it will be scheduled for the following day. You should notice a quick improvement in your eyesight after the surgery.

At Optimal Vision, we offer an aftercare program as part of our services. Our surgeon and optometrist will schedule routine aftercare appointments, typically one day and one week after the surgery. This program lasts for 12 months, with regular appointments as scheduled by your optometrist.

Feel free to contact us today to learn more about our services!

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