Refractive Surgery: Phakic IOLs
Refractive Surgery: Phakic IOLs
Phakic intraocular lenses (PIOLs) are artificial lenses that are placed inside the eye. They help change the eye’s focusing ability to help you see better without glasses or corrective lenses. Some types of PIOLs are designed to go in front of the iris. Other types go behind the iris. The natural lens is not removed. This procedure may be combined with excimer laser surgery to reshape the cornea. PIOLs may be used to treat severe nearsightedness or farsightedness.
What to expect during your procedure
Before treatment, you'll be given local anesthesia. You may also be given medicine to help you relax.
A drainage hole (peripheral iridotomy) may be made in the iris to prevent fluid buildup.
A cut (incision) is then made at the edge of the cornea. The lens is inserted through the incision either in front of or behind the iris.
After treatment, your eye may be bandaged. Your vision should start to improve the next day. It should become stable in 1 to 3 weeks.
Pros of PIOLs
They can be removed or replaced if they don't work out well
They can correct some extreme refractive problems
They still allow your eye's lens to change shape to focus light (accommodation), since your natural lens remains in place
They don't cause thinning of your cornea
They have a reduced risk of causing vision problems such as halos, glare, or starbursts
Cons of PIOLs
Long-term effects are still unknown
May increase your risk of getting cataracts
May cause serious vision problems if there is infection or redness and swelling (inflammation)
Risk of losing your vision
Risk of undercorrecting or overcorrecting your vision
Risk of losing your best corrected vision
Risk of having a detached retina
Updated:
June 18, 2017
Reviewed By:
Bogus, William J., OD, FAAO,Image reviewed by StayWell medical illustration team.,Sather, Rita, RN