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Molly Gardner does not need glasses or contacts any more, for a clear vision. After a surgical procedure called phakic intraocular lens (IOL), in which her ophthalmologist Dr.Sheri Rowen implanted a contact lens behind Gardner's iris, her vision has improved to 20/20.
Phakic IOL may represent the next generation of vision correction and offer a choice for those who are not ideal candidates for procedures such as Lasik.
The corrective surgery procedure, currently undergoing clinical trials in the US, is not yet available commercially. But, if approved, ophthalmologists predict that phakic IOL could become as popular as Lasik surgery. Clinical trials began in 1997 and are gaining popularity. Unlike regular contact lenses, implantable lens require no maintenance and is cosmetically invisible, too.
To correct nearsightedness and farsightedness, Lasik uses a laser to reshape the cornea. Phakic IOL requires no reshaping and, unlike Lasik, the procedure can be reversed if there are problems. Phakic IOL is more effective for people with extreme cases of nearsightedness and farsightedness, while Lasik is preferable for milder cases.
Some experts feel that phakic IOL results in a much higher quality of vision. Experts predict that in five years patients in need of higher levels of correction will choose implantable lenses to laser surgery.
The phakic IOL procedure begins with a few drops of anaesthesia to the eye. A 3-millimetre incision is made in the cornea. The implantable lens is inserted behind the iris and in front of the eye's natural lens; sometimes, the lens is placed in front of the iris. The procedure does not change the colour of the eye and no stitches are required.
Lens manufactures and ophthalmologists are not sure what phakic IOL will cost, but prices are estimated to range from $3,000 to $,5,000 (up to Rs. two lakhs) for both eyes. Lasik surgery costs almost the same.
Phakic IOL is more complex than Lasik but it is painless. No bandages are necessary. The only outward signs of surgery are dilated pupils and redness, which are temporary. Another advantage is that the lens need not be replaced as the patient ages.
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