Phakic intraocular lens implantation places an artificial lens inside the eye while leaving the natural lens in place. It is usually offered to people with strong prescriptions who are not ideal candidates for laser surgery.
How phakic lenses work
The tiny lens sits either in front of or just behind the iris. It bends light to focus images sharply on the retina, reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
- Suitable for many patients with high short sight or sometimes long sight.
- The cornea is largely untouched, which can be helpful in thin or irregular corneas.
- The procedure is usually done with numbing drops as a day case.
- Vision often improves quickly, sometimes within a day or two.
- The lens can be removed or exchanged if needed in the future.
Safety, recovery, and follow up
Careful measurements and checks before surgery help choose the right lens size. After the operation, regular reviews monitor pressure, lens position, and clarity of the natural lens.
- Patients use anti-inflammatory and pressure-lowering drops for a few weeks.
- Activities like swimming, heavy lifting, and eye rubbing are restricted at first.
- Possible risks include raised pressure, cataract, or glare; these are discussed beforehand.
- Most people can return to desk work within several days, depending on comfort.
- Yearly eye examinations remain important to protect long term eye health.
