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Lens Exchange
- What is Lens Exchange?
- Am I a suitable candidate?
- How to prepare for Lens Exchange?
- How is the procedure performed for Lens Exchange?
- Commonly Encountered Symptoms after Lens Exchange during Recovery Phase
- How to take care of my eyes after Lens Exchange
- Follow Up Examination
- What are the possible complications of Lens Exchange?
- FAQ
Back Lens Exchange procedure is a non-laser refractive surgery to correct very high hyperopia and myopia (greater than -12.0 dioptres). In this procedure, the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced by an artificial lens, similar to cataract surgery.
The advantages of lens exchange include permanent correction of vision without removing corneal tissue, rapid visual recovery, predictable outcome and preserving natural cornea and its natural shape.
Top In general, suitable candidates:
- Are over 35 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 lens exchange.
Top - The surgery could be done by 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.
- Use ultrasonic suction probe to break up and remove the natural lens from the lens capsule.
- Insert artificial lens into the lens capsule.
- Usually no suture or only one suture is required to close the wound. If suturing is required, it can be removed 1 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.
- Small degree of under or over correction after surgery.
- Mild glare. It usually improves with time.
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.
- Avoid lifting heavy weight and excessive physical exertion.
- Do not wear eye make-ups for several weeks.
- Avoid crowded and polluted places to prevent infections. Avoid trauma to the wound.
- 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, 1 week and 1 month after surgery or at times your doctor deems necessary.
Top Like cataract surgery, there may be lens capsule rupture, retained lens material and intra-operative bleeding. These are very rare. Retinal detachment is one of the possible post-operative complications, especially for people with high myopia. It can occur years after the initial surgery. It is very important to have pre-operative comprehensive eye examination prior to making a final decision and regular retinal check up after the surgery. Infection and bleeding are extremely rare. However, if it occurs, the lens may have to be removed and antibiotic drops will be instilled inside the eye. Vision loss may occur in this extremely rare situation.
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