Am I Suitable for Lens Replacement Surgery or Not?

The number of lens replacement surgery performed yearly for those with visual impairments, is now in millions. This is due to recent technological advancements made that have now allowed everyone to have access to it. Our medical experts have outlined the qualities that make a person suitable for this surgery and what to consider when selecting a surgeon for the procedure.

What is the age requirement for getting a lens replacement surgery?

You can get a lens replacement surgery at any age but it is more advantageous for middle-aged people, that is, those aged 45 and above. This is because, at this age, people are more likely to develop a visual impairment known as presbyopia. It is the inability to clearly see objects that are close by. As a result, they usually need reading glasses.

Individual cases differ in both condition and severity, which means that the need for lens replacement surgery can come and be done at any age. The decision is entirely up to you and your doctor will offer expert advice on the best solution possible.

Do I need to have a serious eye condition like cataract in order to benefit from the surgery?

Not entirely. So long as you want to lessen your reliance on glasses, this surgery is a good one for you.

Typically, presbyopic or extremely short-sighted people are those that require lens replacement surgery. One main reason being that they cannot get a laser surgery due to their condition. Lens surgery on the other hand, provides a more stable outcome than any laser surgical procedure.

If you suffer from cataract, you can get the cloudy and unclear lens removed during the lens replacement surgical procedure. Your surgeon will provide a new, clean and clear artificial lens that will sharpen your vision and enable you see better.

Types of Artificial lens

Artificial lenses come in 2 distinct types.

• Monofocal: The monofocal lens is used to enhance your distance sight. Although, you will still be required to wear glasses after your surgery to view near distance objects.
• Multifocal: The multifocal lenses come with the trifocal and EDOF lenses. This means that your near, middle and distance sight will be improved.

Are there any pre-existing health conditions that can disqualify a person for lens replacement surgery?

Possibly. Mascular degeneration is one of such eye problems that make lens replacement surgery unhelpful for you. There are certain cases that are suitable for specific lenses. The best way to be sure is to discuss this with your doctor during consultation.

However, a thumb rule for this is that, if your vision improves after using contacts or glasses, then the same can happen with lens replacement.

You can book a free consultation at your nearest clinic to know whether you are suitable for lens replacement surgery or not.

If I am unsuitable for lens replacement surgery, what next can I do?

Implantable contact lens (ICL) surgery is typically the next best option if you are below age 45. This procedure does not entail taking out your natural eye lens.

Instead, it is performed by swiftly inserting contact lens into your eyes to correct the problem. Some of the benefits of the ICL surgery is that it doesn't require any maintenance and it provides clear and sharp distance vision.

What should I consider when choosing a surgeon for my lens replacement surgery?

Choose a surgeon that is experienced, offers consultation and has all the things necessary to perform the surgery. More importantly, go for a surgeon that is easily accessible and will give you the freedom of selecting your own lens.