The Verisyse and the Visian phakic IOL implants are a wonderful alternative for Laser Vision Correction, especially for those who have high levels of myopia or thin corneas. To find out if you're a candidate for LASIK or the phakic IOLs, call Corneal Associates today for a free consultation.
VERISYSE LENS
New Option Available for Nearsighted Non-LASIK Candidates
Theodore Perl, M.D. is now treating moderate to severely nearsighted patients with the Verisyse™ phakic intraocular lens (IOL). The implantable micro lens, which resembles a contact lens, provides a new option for treating patients who previously were not candidates for LASIK because their myopia (nearsightedness) was too severe or their corneas were too thin to correct for the amount of myopia.
"Until now, many have been trapped in thick glasses or contact lenses and have not been able to participate in the miracle of traditional vision correction surgery," Dr. Perl explained.
"The Verisyse™ lens provides an opportunity for a safe, proven and precise vision correction in a short outpatient procedure with quick recovery time for patients that are challenged by moderate to severe nearsightedness," says Dr. Perl, who is one of only an estimated 300 U.S. refractive surgeons who have been trained with the Verisyse™ lens.
The procedure involves placing the Verisyse™ IOL between the clear front covering of the eye (cornea) and the iris (colored portion of the eye) or just behind the iris. The lens works with the eye's natural lens to produce high quality, high definition vision. Although the lens will remain in its proper location permanently it can be removed if desired.
The lens was approved by the FDA in the fall of 2004 for patients with myopia in the range of -5 to -20 diopters.
While the Verisyse™ lens has been approved in the United States for only a short time, the lens design was introduced in Europe more than 17 years ago. It is estimated that more than 150,000 procedures have been conducted worldwide over the past 15 years with excellent results and a remarkable safety profile.
STAAR VISIAN ICL™
Staying on the forefront of state-of-the-art surgical technology, Corneal Associates of New Jersey is now offering the STAAR Visian ICL™. A revolutionary lens procedure is recommended for patients who do not qualify for LASIK due to moderate or severe nearsightedness or cases where the cornea is too thin for LASIK.Visian ICL™ FAQ’s
Who is a candidate for the Visian ICL™?
The ideal candidate is between the ages of 21 and 45, with moderate to severe nearsightedness (myopia), with or without astigmatism or hyperopia, and wants to experience superior vision correction. Patients must not be pregnant, have a stable eye prescription and be in overall good health.
What is the Visian ICL™ made of?
The material is called Collamer, a collagen co-polymer that contains a small amount of purified collagen. It is very biocompatible (doesn't cause a reaction inside the eye) and stable. Collamer also contains an ultraviolet light filter, which provides additional protection against UV rays.
Can the Visian ICL™ be seen by others?
No. Since the lens is positioned behind the iris, the cosmetic appearance of the Visian ICL™ completely natural.
Do the lenses dry out or get dirty like contacts?
No. It is designed to remain in place inside your eye, without maintenance. However, an annual eye examination is recommended.
What if a patient’s vision changes?
If a patient experiences significant changes in vision, the Visian ICL™ can be removed or replaced easily. Patients can also wear corrective glasses or contact lenses if needed. The Visian ICL™ is not intended to treat presbyopia, a condition that occurs near age 40 that requires reading glasses for up close and intermediate vision due to age.
What is the surgical procedure?
A few weeks prior to your procedure, a Corneal Associates of New Jersey doctor will perform a laser peripheral iridotomy. During this procedure, the doctor will use a special laser beam to make one or two small openings near the outside edge of your iris, which is the colored part of the eye. These openings serve as outlets that will allow the fluid within your eye to circulate properly around the implant.
The entire surgical procedure to insert the Visian ICL takes approximately 15-30 minutes and is an outpatient procedure.
- The doctor will administer either topical or local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Additionally, you may or may not be given a sedative.
- Once anesthesia is applied, the doctor will begin the procedure. First, he will create one or two small micro incisions at the base of your cornea that will be used to position the lens.
- The doctor gently inserts the Vision ICL™ into the eye. Once the lens has been inserted, the four corners of the lens will be placed behind your iris. This makes the lens invisible to both you and others.
- To complete the procedure, the doctor will instill eye drops to help prevent infection and inflammation. You will continue to use these drops for several weeks after your procedure.
- Even though this is an outpatient procedure, you will not be able to drive immediately after the Visian ICL eye surgery, so it is important that you arrange for transportation home.
