Crystalens® is a revolutionary new breakthrough in vision enhancement by Eyeonics. It is the first and only intraocular lens (IOL) replacement for cataracts that focuses like the eye's natural lens, allowing for continuous vision up close, far away and all distances in between. By using the eye's muscle to move the lens backwards and forwards naturally in response to the brain's desire to see at different distances, Crystalens® enables the eye to focus continuously and seamlessly through a range of distances, including near, far and everything in between. Patients experience the same vision they had when they were younger, for most without the inconvenience of corrective lenses.
Crystalens® is very different from other lens implant procedures especially intraocular lenses. The Crystalens® implant procedure allows your eye and it's natural muscles to focus on objects at various distances. Intraocular lenses do not. They only allow you to focus on objects at a certain distance and you may be required to wear glasses for near or middle vision. It's important to note that not everyone will gain 20/20 vision at all distances after this procedure. It is also important to point out that even after having this procedure done and having the possibility of having 20/20 vision, you still may not increase your chances to read or focus on objects in low light. As we get older, we lose our ability to focus on objects under these conditions. Our health and health of our eyes will also determine this outcome regardless of any type of refractive surgery.
THE IMPLANT PROCEDURE
For patients who are good candidates for the surgery we use topical anesthesia (eye drops), which enables the fastest possible recovery of vision. Typically, our patients enjoy dramatically improved vision within hours of their procedure, and the vast majority return to daily activities within 24 hours of the surgery. Because we perform these procedures in our own fully licensed Ambulatory Surgery Center, there is no need for the inconvenience of hospitalization.
ONE EYE OR TWO?
The Crystalens® procedure is normally performed in one dominant eye to determine the outcome of your vision in both eyes. Of course both eyes usually develop cataracts, so in this case of 2 eyes having bad vision, the surgeon will prefer to wait 2 to 3 weeks before inserting a second implant, or implant in the second eye. For more information regarding this issue, it's best to consult with your surgeon.
WHO's A CANDIDATE?
The Crystalens® is ideally suited for men and women aged 50 to 64 years of age with cataracts who want to not only restore clarity in their vision but restore their near, intermediate and distance vision. Almost anyone who has cataracts are candidates for the Crystalens® procedure so long as you are healthy and do not have any serious eye diseases or disorders like uncontrolled diabetes. You may also be a candidate even if you have had previous refractive surgery. The best way to find out if you are a candidate for this procedure is to visit your local eye doctor for an exam. If you have already had cataract surgery, you are not a candidate for this procedure.
REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Although clinical results have been excellent, it is important to understand that everyone’s eyes are unique and results may very. The risks, complications, and side effects associated with the implantation of the Crystalens are the same as with other intra-ocular lenses and cataract surgery. Not everyone is a candidate for this procedure; your candidacy will be determined during a pre-scheduled consultation with your doctor. During this meeting the associated risks will also be discussed with you. Be sure to have all of your questions answered to your satisfaction prior to deciding whether or not this surgery is right for you.
It is also possible that you might have some pre-existing astigmatism, which could complicate the procedure. Your doctor may recommend placing limbal relaxing incisions on the cornea, or having laser vision correction at a later date to treat corneal astigmatism.
THE NEXT STEP
If you are excited about once again being able to clearly perceive the world you live in, the Crystalens may be right for you. Be sure to ask your doctor if you are a candidate for this exciting new advancement in intra-ocular lens technology.
For more information about Crystalens® and to view a list of frequently asked questions, visit the Eyeonics website at: www.crystalens.com.
