What is the lens implant?

The lens implant is a mechanical device that is surgically implanted to replace the natural lens of the eye. This procedure is most often performed to improve impaired vision due to cataract. However, it may also be carried out to repair certain refractive disorders such as myopia or astigmatism. It is noteworthy that the patient is usually awake for the procedure and is prepared only by local anesthesia. Equally remarkable is that most lenses implants can be introduced in less than an hour, with a recovery period of only one to three weeks. First, the lens implant is generally referred to as intraocular lens or IOL. Initially, all iOL were monofocal, which means they were intended to correct the vision only in one direction - either close or far away. This is somewhat restrictive, because it means wearing glasses when you need sight. This kind of lens implant can be particularly disappointing for patients' presbyopia or age -related foresight. For example, a multifocal lens implant can allowIt is clear to the recipient at all distances, without the help of glasses or contact lenses. In this class there are several products designed to solve more specific needs. In fact, there are even lens implants that help reduce glare and minimize light sensitivity.

There is another key difference between monofocal and multifocal IOLs to be considered. Unlike the first, which are "solid", some multifocal IOLs are designed to work in the same way as the natural lens, which adapts to change the focus. This physical characteristic, technically known as "accommodation", may require longer periods for patient. In fact, retraining bra targeting and interpretation of images at different distances with this type of lens implant can be difficult unless both eyes receive one simultaneously.

Unfortunately, not everyone with bad seenIt is a candidate for the lens implant operation. First, eye growth must be complete, which generally excludes anyone under 40 years of age. In addition, the patient should be in good health overall, had sufficient corneal thickness and experienced a balanced refraction for at least six months before the operation. Finally, certain health conditions usually cause rejection of this procedure, such as pregnancy, HIV infection, hepatitis C, diabetes and the presence of pacemaker.

While adverse reactions are relatively rare, there are certain risks associated with obtaining the lens implant. The corneal edema or swelling is the most common complication, but this is usually cleaned in itself within a few days after the operation. Infection is the most serious problem because it can lead to blindness if it is not treated. Other risk factors include glaucoma, retinal department and ironically development of cataracts. It is estimated, however, that only five percent of the beneficiaries of the lens implant are experiencing any of these complications.