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Implantation of Phakic Intra-Ocular Lenses (IOL)
- What is phakic IOL?
- Am I a suitable candidate?
- How to prepare for implantation of phakic IOL?
- How is the procedure performed for implantation of phakic IOL?
- Commonly Encountered Symptoms after implantation of phakic IOL during Recovery Phase
- How to take care of my eyes after implantation of phakic IOL
- Follow Up Examination
- What are the possible complications of implantation of phakic IOL?
- FAQ
Back IOL (Intra-Ocular Lenses) are artificial intra-ocular lenses, which are made of highly biocompatible plastic material.
Implantation of IOL is a type of refractive surgery to correct very high degree of hyperopia and myopia. The procedure involves inserting an implant called an intra-ocular lens (IOL) in front of the pupil or behind the iris of the eye. Patients retain the natural focusing capability (accommodation) for close objects after surgery as the natural lens of the eye is not removed.
Top In general, suitable candidates:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are in good general health
- Have no health issues affecting your eyes
- Have no active eye conditions which may affect healing
- Have a stable glasses or contact lens prescription for the last year
Top - Attend one of the public seminars organized by Guy Hugh Chan Refractive Surgery Centre to obtain basic information about refractive surgeries. Admissions are free. Reservation can be made by contacting 2835 8899 or online at www.hksh.com.
- Make an appointment with our Centre for a complete eye examination and evaluation. Book the date of operation if you are suitable for implantation of phakic IOL.
Top - The surgery could be done with topical anaesthesia or other types of anaesthesia.
- Place a speculum to hold the lids apart.
- Use a diamond blade to create a small corneal incision.
- Insert the phakic IOL in front of the pupil or between the iris and the lens.
- Suturing may be required which can be removed usually 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.
- Apply antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
Top - Mild post-operative pain and tearing. It usually goes away in a few days.
- Unstable vision. It usually improves with time.
- Rarely, eye pressure may be high, causing eye pain.
Top On Surgery Day
- Do not drive motor vehicles or operate machinery. Exercise caution with stairs to avoid accidents.
- Return home and rest for 6 hours. Lying down in face-up position is recommended.
- If there is discomfort in your eyes, you may take the pain relieving medications provided. Take medications according to instructions.
- Keep the eye shields on until the next day.
- Follow doctor's instructions when using eye drops.
Post-op Eye Care
- Start antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops provided according to instructions of your doctor. Some patients may have a slight burning sensation after instillation of eye drops.
- During the first week after surgery, eye shields should be worn when sleeping.
- Do not wear eye make-ups for several weeks.
- Avoid crowded and polluted places to prevent infections. Avoid trauma to the wound.
- Avoid driving if pupil-dilating drops are used. Wear sun-glasses for outdoor activities under sunlight.
- You must return to your doctor for follow up as instructed.
- If necessary, glasses will be prescribed several weeks after surgery.
Top - Return for eye examination on the next day, Day 3, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after surgery or at times your doctor deems necessary.
- Return for suture removal 2 to 4 weeks after surgery or at times your doctor deems necessary.
Top With progression of time, the round pupil may become oval in shape. However, this does not affect vision and is noticeable only by very close examination of the pupil. Post-operative complications such as infection, night vision problem, retinal detachment and cataract formation are very rare. In the rare cases of cataract being formed, doctors will remove the phakic IOL and perform cataract surgery and vision can be restored.
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