We have compiled frequently asked questions and answers about phakic intraocular lens surgery (ICL) for you. Phakic Intraocular Lens surgery is a solution for people with high-grade myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism who are not suitable for laser treatment.
Phakic intraocular lens surgery corrects vision defects thanks to a special lens placed inside the eye. Here are frequently asked questions and answers about phakic intraocular lens surgery:
1. What is Phakic Intraocular Lens (ICL)?
Phakic intraocular lens is a special lens that is placed over the natural eye lens and corrects refractive errors in the eye. This lens is used to treat eye defects such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism and can eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
2. Who is Phakic Intraocular Lens Suitable for?
Phakic intraocular lens surgery is especially ideal for patients who are not suitable for laser treatment (LASIK, PRK). Generally, people who have eye defects such as high-grade myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism and whose cornea structure is thin or not suitable for laser treatment are candidates for this treatment. It is suitable for people who are in good eye health, have reached a certain age (usually over 21) and whose eye number has remained stable for at least a year.
3. How is Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery Performed?
Phakic intraocular lens surgery is generally a short-term procedure and is performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and inserts the lens between the eye’s iris and the natural lens. This lens stays in place in the eye without requiring any stitches. The procedure usually takes 10-15 minutes and can be done separately for both eyes.
4. Is Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery Safe?
Yes, phakic intraocular lens surgery is a very safe procedure. With the development of technology, these lenses are designed to minimize the risk of complications in the eye. However, as with every surgical procedure, phakic intraocular lens surgery may have risks such as infection, increased intraocular pressure or lens displacement. Therefore, it is important to have regular eye checks after the procedure.
5. What is the Post-Surgery Recovery Process?
The post-operative recovery process is quite fast. Usually the patient is discharged on the same day and can return to daily activities within a few days. However, during the first few days, the eye may be slightly tender, watery, or sensitive to light. Using the drops recommended by the doctor and performing regular check-ups will accelerate the healing process.
6. Is Phakic Intraocular Lens Permanent?
Yes, phakic intraocular lenses offer a permanent treatment method. However, the lens can be removed or replaced if necessary. For example, the lens may be removed if there is a major change in eye size or if another eye surgery is required.
7. Is Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery Painful?
Since the surgery is performed under local anesthesia, the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. There may be slight discomfort or a foreign body sensation in the eye after the procedure, but this usually disappears within a few days. These mild discomforts can be controlled with the drops and medications recommended by the doctor.
8. Is it necessary to wear glasses or contact lenses after surgery?
After phakic intraocular lens surgery, the need to wear glasses or contact lenses usually disappears. However, some patients may require very low prescription glasses, which is quite rare. It is aimed to completely correct the eye defect and most of the patients do not need to wear glasses or lenses after the procedure.
9. What Should Be Considered After the Surgery?
- Be careful not to rub your eyes for the first few days and protect your eyes.
- Use the drops prescribed by the doctor regularly.
- Your eyes may be sensitive to light, so it is recommended that you wear sunglasses.
- In the first weeks, avoid swimming, heavy sports or activities that could impact the eye.
- Go for regular eye checks and follow the doctor’s recommendations.
10. Is Phakic Intraocular Lens Surgery a Permanent Solution?
Yes, phakic intraocular lenses usually offer a permanent solution. However, if cataracts or another eye disease develops in later ages, these lenses can be removed and a new treatment can be applied.
Phakic intraocular lens surgery is an effective treatment option for people who want to get rid of glasses and contact lenses and are not suitable for laser treatment. Having information about this method and discussing it in detail with your ophthalmologist is important for you to choose the right treatment. Successful results can be achieved with regular check-ups and a careful recovery process after the procedure.
