Lens replacement surgery can sometimes be a good alternative when laser eye surgery is not suitable, but it is a different procedure with its own risks.
When it may be considered instead of laser
Some people cannot have laser treatment because of thin corneas, very high prescriptions, or dry eye. Lens replacement avoids reshaping the cornea and instead changes the focusing power inside the eye.
- Useful for high long-sighted prescriptions that exceed laser limits
- Helps when the cornea is too thin or irregular for safe reshaping
- Removes an ageing lens that would later develop into a cataract
- Can correct presbyopia at the same time as distance vision
- Often suits people in their late forties or older
Important differences to understand
Unlike laser, lens replacement is an internal eye operation similar to cataract surgery. Deciding to proceed means accepting these additional risks in exchange for potential visual freedom.
- Small risks include infection, bleeding, and pressure changes
- Retinal detachment risk is higher in some eye types, especially highly myopic
- Night-time halos or glare are more likely with multifocal implants
- Glasses may still be needed for some tasks after surgery
- A thoughtful discussion with your surgeon will clarify if this trade-off suits you
