Omni intraocular lenses, or IOLs, are artificial lenses surgically implanted into the eyes. IOLs are most often used to treat people with cataracts, but they can also be used to treat people with myopia, especially if they aren’t eligible for LASIK eye surgery.
What is a Phakic IOL?
Phakic IOLs are used to correct moderate to severe cases of nearsightedness. They don’t replace the natural lens; they supplement it and function like a contact lens that is permanently attached to the eye. The eye surgeon will implant the phakic IOL either between the iris and the cornea or behind the iris.
The patient won’t feel the IOL within their eye, just as a dental patient doesn’t feel a filling in their tooth. Phakic IOLs don’t need any maintenance beyond regular eye exams.
Types of IOLs Used for Cataract Patients
The FDA approved intraocular lenses for use in treating cataracts back in the 1980s. Before then, people who underwent cataract surgery had to wear thick glasses. Now, cataract patients get IOLs to replace the lens.
Monofocal IOLs are the oldest type. They are designed to enable a person to see clearly only at a given focal point or distance. They can be set to provide distance vision, intermediate vision or near vision. Most patients choose to get a monofocal lens for distance vision, so they can drive without wearing glasses, and they will use reading glasses when they need to see up close.
A toric IOL is a type of monofocal IOL designed for a patient who also has astigmatism. Multifocal or accommodative IOLs have series of rings or focal zones built into them. The rings enable the patient to see clearly from any distance.
What Does Cataract Surgery Involve?
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure. The surgeon will use a special laser to cut a corneal flap so she can access the lens. She will then use ultrasound to break up the lens into little pieces that are removed through a gentle suction. The surgeon then implants the IOL in the same place as the natural lens, behind the pupil and iris. The surgeon closes the incision in the patient’s eye and covers the eye with a protective shield. The procedure typically takes around 20 minutes.
Who is a Good Candidate for Intraocular Lenses?
Basically, if someone is healthy enough to undergo cataract surgery, they are healthy enough to get IOLs. People who need excellent night vision and/or distance vision for their occupation generally do better with monofocal IOLs than with multifocal IOLs. The best candidates for phakic IOLs will be between 21 and 40 years old, and they will not have eye conditions other than myopia.
Schedule a Consultation Today
To learn more about intraocular lenses, visit Wichita Vision Institute in Wichita. Dr. Patel understands that every patient has unique needs, so there are a range of IOLs offered. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to find out which type of IOL is best for you.
I Can See Clearly Now
by Don Burrows
Category: cataract surgeryDr. Patel saved my wife’s vision and mine too. I now live 770 miles from her office and would still make the trip, even if it required a cross-country trip.
I highly recommend Dr. Patel
by Jim Guhl
Category: cataract surgeryDr. Patel is a physician whose sincere goal is to improve the quality of life for her patients. When I first became a patient under Dr. Patel’s care, I was diagnosed with cataracts in both of my eyes; dry eye syndrome; and astigmatism. Previous records from my Lasik surgery, which occurred 17 years ago, were no longer available. The Lasik surgery documentation was important in determining the exact corrections that now needed to be made to properly correct my astigmatism. Dr. Patel wisely recommended I postpone the cataract removal and astigmatism correction procedure, until she received newly developed diagnostic equipment. This newly developed technology would provide her with the most accurate metrics possible. New specialized lens implants were also becoming available, which would correct my astigmatism. Dr. Patel explained my chances for a successful outcome would be significantly increased if I would be patient and wait a little longer. Dr. Patel is truly a physician with high integrity and would never perform surgery until she knew it was the right time. She truly cares about providing her patients with the best care she can. Dr. Patel successfully treated my dry eye symptoms with a regiment of eye drops, cleansing techniques and vitamins, which prevented me from requiring more extensive - and more expensive treatment. Prior to the surgery on my right eye, she provided me with sample eye drops from her office and coupons for the eye drops I would need to purchase after my surgery. She did all she could to reduce my expenses. During preparations for right eye surgery, Dr. Patel spent quality time with me explaining the results of my pre-surgery testing and asking questions to determine my vision goals. One of my desires was to once again see the front sight on a pistol. I thoroughly enjoyed going to the firing range, but due to the cataract in my right eye I could no longer see the sights, on my pistol. Although the cataract in my left eye was not as bad yet – I was also experiencing difficulty seeing and firing left handed. Using a blue gun (authentic plastic replica of a Sig P229 pistol), Dr. Patel took additional measurements which she used in determining the correct lens to implant, during my surgery. My right eye surgery took place on November 1, 2017. Two days after the surgery, I happened to glance at my mobile phone and for the first time in 10 years or more, I could read the information on the screen without glasses. I pulled the Sig out of its case and – wow! – The sight picture was there clear as a bell. So the right eye cataract is gone along with the rainbow halos around cars at night and the astigmatism has been corrected better than I dreamed possible. Quality of life restored! The process included the latest diagnostic equipment; the newest technology in an intraocular lens implant; and the use of a laser surgery technique performed by Dr. Patel. Sadly, insurance does not cover much of the cost for the process that produces the optimal results. When it comes to the long term correction of your vision and significant increase in the quality of life it is well worth the investment. Dr. Patel is a very accomplished and highly competent physician and surgeon. I will be forever grateful to her for restoring my vision. I highly recommend Dr. Patel. Jim Guhl Wichita, KS November 13, 2017
In Good Hands
by Luke F.
Category: lasik surgeryTalk about a life changing surgery!!! From the consultation to the surgery I knew I was in good hands. I would recommend WVI to anyone who is considering LASIK. Thanks WVI!
Life Changing!
by Ashley J.
Category: lasik surgeryI love Dr. Patel! After having my dreams crushed at another place when they told me I wasn't a candidate, I went to Dr Patel for a lasik consultation. She is very thorough and gave me information about my eyes that no doctor in almost 20 years has told me. A week ago I had Lasik and it has been life changing! I couldn't be happier and I'm so glad I chose Dr Patel. She truly cares about her patients and her passion shows. The wait time can be very long, but if you are prepared for that ahead of time, you won't be disappointed once you see the doctor. I'm recommending WVI to everyone I know. She is now the only doctor I trust for my eyes.
Impressed with Dr. Patel and Staff
by William D.
Category: cataract surgeryI first saw Dr. Patel about 6 years ago when my left eye wandered to the left side and stayed there. She sent me to the Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City for further evaluation. No reason was ever found as to why it did that but it corrected itself after about two months. Since then I have been seeing Dr. Patel regularly. I damaged the left eye in an accident and had to have a vitrectomy performed. She referred me to another specialist Dr. Paul Weishaar and that outcome was also great. The eye did develop a cataract and she performed that surgery a few months ago and suggested a plan for treating dry eyes. It was outstanding and since wearing glasses for over 50 years, I now just wear sunglasses. Simply amazing. Dr. Patel and her staff are the greatest and they know other great professionals if the need arises. They also do charity work and they are all a total blessing to me. I would not even consider going anywhere else. Just gotta love them.
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