Intraocular lenses

What are intraocular lenses?

Intraocular lenses, also known as IOLs, are clear artificial lenses used to replace the eyes’ natural lenses when they are damaged. They are implanted inside the eye so that the light that enters the eyeball focuses on the retina. There are two main groups of intraocular lenses:

  • Phakic: they are those that are placed without removing the crystalline lens.
  • Pseudophakic: They are implanted when the crystalline lens is removed, for example in cataract surgery.

They are usually made of flexible and foldable material and are the same size as the original lenses.

The procedure to insert the intraocular lenses is usually performed under topical anesthesia, which is administered by means of drops. It is a painless technique that is performed in the outpatient clinic, without having to cover the eye for more than half an hour.

Why is it performed?

The intervention to place intraocular lenses can be performed for cataracts, myopia or other visual diseases.

Another application of intraocular lenses is in young patients without presbyopia, preserving the crystalline lens to correct different refractive defects.

After the operation, the patient can return to normal life in a short period of time.

What does it consist of?

The intraocular lens is usually implanted in the eye during cataract surgery to replace the natural lens.

Preparation for intraocular lens placement

To determine the suitability of the patient and which is the best option according to the graduation and characteristics of the eye, a specialist in Ophthalmology performs a preliminary study.

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In the previous study, the depth of the anterior chamber is measured, which has to have some limit values to ensure that the intraocular lens fits in the eye without altering the other anatomical structures.

Post-operative care

The postoperative period is quick, since the patient can return to normal life in a short period of time and resume normal activities without any problem.

Absolute rest is not required, simply to avoid the risk of trauma and to administer some drops. The application of these drops will vary depending on the process that has been followed, but they will be applied two to four times daily during the three weeks following the intervention, approximately.

Alternatives to this treatment

  • Laser refractive surgery: It consists of modifying the size of the cornea (in charge of our vision) through the application of the laser inside it. For this purpose, it is necessary to lift a layer of corneal tissue, which will be repositioned once the procedure is completed and does not require stitches.