Phakic Lenses
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
Phakic lenses are an alternative to laser vision correction. They are special foldable artificial lenses implanted between the iris and the natural lens
When laser vision correction is not possible
Many patients seeking an alternative to wearing glasses or contact lenses are told in ophthalmology offices that they do not qualify for laser vision correction surgery. However, this diagnosis does not preclude the option of phakic lens implantation—a special flexible artificial lens implanted between the iris and the natural lens. The name of this modern artificial lens comes from the Greek word phakos (lens). Its production utilizes Collamer [Collamer (ICL)]—a biocompatible material based on collagen. It is very well tolerated by the eye.
Phakic lens implantation is a solution primarily addressed to patients with high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. However, phakic lenses do not correct presbyopia, which is the loss of the eye’s accommodative ability caused by gradual hardening and reduced elasticity of the natural lens associated with its physiological aging.
Qualifying examinations for the procedure include:
- medical history
- refraction examination without correction and with correction (glasses, contact lenses)
- anterior segment examination
- anterior chamber depth measurement
- pupil diameter measurement
- fundus examination after pupil dilation
- corneal topography
- biometry (IOLMaster)
- pachymetry
- endothelial cell assessment
Vision defects that preclude laser vision correction include primarily:
- certain corneal changes: keratoconus, excessively thin cornea, congenital corneal pathologies, dystrophic diseases, corneal scars
- excessively high refractive error: myopia above –8-10 diopters and hyperopia above +4 diopters
- difficult-to-treat astigmatism
The aforementioned vision defects are said to be beyond the reach of laser treatment. Phakic lens implantation frees the patient from vision problems once and for all. It is a safe, fast, and stable correction method that is fully reversible—if necessary, the artificial lens can simply be removed.
It is worth emphasizing once again that phakic lens implantation does not involve removal of the natural lens. The artificial lens is implanted in an eye with a clear natural lens (i.e., a lens that is not clouded, as in cataracts, and retains its physiological properties), ensuring excellent vision quality. After phakic lens implantation, the patient no longer needs to wear corrective glasses or contact lenses.
Procedure Course
The first step is preoperative preparation—cleansing the patient’s face with a disinfectant, administering local anesthesia via eye drops or injection, and painlessly immobilizing the eyelids. The surgeon can then proceed to make a tunnel incision at the corneal edge. A special micro-instrument is used for this purpose to ensure maximum precision. The foldable phakic lens is introduced through the incision.
In the case of lens exchange, the old lenses are dissolved and aspirated, then replaced with artificial equivalents. After the procedure is completed, a protective shield is placed over the eye to protect it from external factors.
Preparation
At the beginning of the procedure, the facial area is thoroughly disinfected, and the eye is anesthetized using eye drops or an injection near the eye. The eyelids are immobilized. Everything is performed painlessly.
Incision
The corneal edge is gently incised with a precise knife, enabling the subsequent stages of the procedure.
Artificial Lens Implantation
The tunnel incision in the cornea allows the folded phakic lens to be introduced into the eye. The implanted additional lens precisely corrects the patient’s refractive error.
Postoperative Phase
After the operation, the eye is secured with a special shield that protects it from external factors such as dirt or dust, as well as damage. This allows for a smooth recovery process.
Schedule a non-binding appointment and consultation to learn how we can improve your vision.
Contraindications for phakic lens implantation surgery
As with other surgical interventions in the eye, phakic lens implantation requires a stable refractive error and good overall health. Phakic lens implantation is not performed in minors or in patients over 55 years of age.
Contraindications for the procedure include:
- anatomical parameters of the eye, e.g., anterior chamber depth and corneal width
- unstable refractive error
- autoimmune diseases
- connective tissue diseases
- eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, retinal detachment)
- oncological diseases
- infections
- pregnancy and breastfeeding
We are a Schwind
Reference Center
SwissLaser is the laser reference center for Schwind. We are experts in laser vision correction with international experience. We use modern, certified technologies that allow you to successfully free yourself from glasses!
Our SwissLaser clinic collaborates intensively with Schwind on scientific research. Dr.
Victor Derhartunian trains physicians worldwide in laser vision correction
using highly advanced SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions devices.
European standard of treatment
The establishment of SwissLaser marks Dr. Victor Derhartunian’s return to his Polish roots – bringing European knowledge, experience, quality, and renowned Swiss precision to our country, so that every patient in need of vision correction receives the best in terms of technology, expertise, and care.
Our priority is the continuous deepening of knowledge in the field of refractive surgery, lens and laser operations, so that Polish patients can receive treatment at the highest level.
Dr. Victor Derhartunian received the Patients’ Choice Award from 2012-2023.
Schedule a non-binding appointment and consultation to learn how we can improve your vision.
