Some individuals with very high levels of refractive error and / or thin corneas may not be suited to laser refractive surgery. However, that does not mean we cannot assist you to be free of glasses or contact lenses. After consultation with our ophthalmologist you may be recommended an intraocular lens implant.
Our highly experienced team can carry out three types of lens implant surgery at WA Laser Eye Centre: Refractive Lensectomy, also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), Phakic Intraocular Lens (IOL) insertion, and Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) surgery.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) Eye Surgery
A Refractive Lens Exchange, or Refractive Lensectomy, is a type of vision correction surgery, the procedure being very similar to cataract surgery. The natural (crystalline) lens is removed, and an artificial intraocular lens of the required power is inserted in the eye. Multifocal or trifocal lenses surgery may be recommended to correct mid-range, distance and reading problems.
Phakic Intraocular Lens Implants
The Phakic Intraocular Lens (PIOL) procedure is used to correct vision in those who are not suitable candidates for corneal-based or RLE eye surgery. Phakic IOL is an intraocular lens that is inserted into the eye without removing the natural lens (crystalline lens). This means that the eye benefits from the combined action of the natural lens and the implanted IOL to correct the vision. Recovery is rapid and most individuals can see more clearly the following day.
Implantable Collamer Lens
The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is similar to the Phakic IOL, but is placed behind the iris, adjacent to the natural lens. The ICL remains in place indefinitely, but can be replaced or removed should the vision change enough over time. It provides exceptional quality of vision, and is generally recommended for those persons who either have high refractive errors, or do not have the required corneal thickness to undergo LASIK surgery. Rapid recovery, and a simple outpatient procedure make this a highly rewarding vision correction option.
What Types of Intraocular Lenses are Used?
At WA Laser Eye Centre, we offer several types of intraocular lenses (IOLs). Your ophthalmologist will discuss the lens best suited to your eyes, lifestyle, and visual needs during your consultation.
- Monofocal lenses – Provide vision correction at a single distance, most commonly for distance vision. Glasses are usually still required for near tasks.
- Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses – Lenses such as the Symfony IOL and Odyssey IOL provide an extended range of vision, improving distance and intermediate vision, with some functional near vision.
- Multifocal / Trifocal lenses – The PanOptix Trifocal IOL is designed to provide clear vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges, reducing dependence on glasses.
- Toric lenses – Toric IOLs are designed to correct astigmatism and can be combined with monofocal, EDOF, or trifocal technology.