What happens in a lens replacement procedure

Before any lens replacement, an in-depth examination must take place. After that, the lens replacement can be scheduled. The treatment takes approximately 10 minutes per eye and is performed under local anaesthesia using eye drops. In other words, there are no needles involved.

If desired, general anaesthesia is also possible. In approximately 10% of the cases, reading glasses may still have to be worn after the operation for the very fine print. The ophthalmologist chooses the implant lenses that best fit your expectations, taking into account your profession, your daily activities, hobbies, sports activities etc.

This treatment is permanent as opposed to other treatments where the natural lens is preserved. As a matter of fact, the implant lens has a fixed reading correction, which does not change throughout the years. Not only is the clock turned back, it is also stopped.

Types of implant lenses

Here is an overview of the different types of replacement lenses.

1. Lara, Trifocal EDOF lens

This lens is designed to provide good distance vision and good reading vision starting at 40 to 50 centimetres. The intermediate distance – for computer use, reading labels in the shop etc. – may be somewhat more difficult to read. You may need a pair of +1 to +1.50 reading glasses for this. Using a laptop should be easier. These lenses may cause the appearance of halos around light sources for the first 3 months of use. After 6 to 18 months, these halos will disappear almost completely or become much less bothersome. The reason for this is that the brain must become accustomed to the new situation in the eye.

2. Fine Vision, trifocal lens

This lens makes it possible to see well in the distance, to read well at 30 to 40 centimetres and at a distance of 70 to 80 centimetres. A pair of +1 reading glasses may be necessary for extended periods of reading. In the beginning, you may have to become readjusted to a suitable reading distance. This becomes easier and easier as the months pass. Don’t forget to make sure that you have sufficient light while reading. These lenses may cause the appearance of halos around light sources for the first 3 months of use. After 6 to 18 months, these halos will disappear almost completely or become much less bothersome. The reason for this is that the brain must become accustomed to the new situation in the eye.

3. Astigmatism or refractive correction, toric implant lens

In cases of astigmatism, the replacement lenses are custom made in order to achieve the best visual acuity possible. In 2012, our eye center was the first in Belgium to offer a lens replacement without using a scalpel. In fact, this procedure results in even more accurate placement of the implanted lens.