Clear Lensectomy

Overview

Removal of the natural lens and replacement with an artificial plastic lens (an intraocular lens or IOL). This is the same operation as cataract surgery but in cataract the natural lens has gone opaque.

Brief description of procedure

Same as in routine cataract surgery with insertion of appropriate power intra ocular lens. The operation is performed under topical anaesthetic. Through a 2.6mm incision the lens is fragmented and sucked out. A new plastic lens of power calculated to correct the refractive error is inserted. Because of the small incision no suture is required and post operative pain is minimal. Recovery of vision is very rapid with no limitation of activities.

Experience

The first IOL was inserted in 1949 and since then Cataract surgery with IOL implantation has become the most frequently performed operation. In recent years there has been an increasing trend to clear lens surgery in hyperopia and in higher levels of myopia especially in older patients.

Limitations

There is virtually no restrictions from the point of refraction, although at times 2 IOLs have to be piggy-backed to correct all of the refractive error. As the implant is inside the eye the rare infections are potentially very serious In myopic patients the risk of retinal problems may be increased

Lens Choice