Intra ocular lens implants (IOL)

An intra ocular lens implant (IOL) is used when laser eye treatment is not possible, for example in older patients or patients with prescriptions which are too high for LASIK or PRK.  Designed to correct the vision in the same way that contact lenses and spectacles do, the lens is implanted internally, between the cornea and the iris.  Once inserted the artificial lens implant (ALI) will remain in place permanently (though it can be removed if necessary), so the patient will have complete freedom from the need for glasses and contact lenses for distance vision.

 

 Implant based procedures are generally performed under local anesthetic and the procedures takes around 30 minutes with a standard stay at hospital of about two hours.  Patients can see well straight away but vision is much better after a few weeks.  The second eye is usually treated when the wound from the first eye has healed, about two weeks later.