When patients think of improving their vision with surgery, LASIK — the most popular refractive surgery on the market — is usually the first procedure that comes to mind. However, another procedure may be worthwhile for patients who are not good candidates for LASIK: clear lens extraction. Here, the ophthalmologist at Laser Eye Center of Miami answers some of their patients’ most common questions about clear lens extraction to help educate those contemplating refractive surgery.
Why Might I Be a Better Candidate for Clear Lens Extraction Than LASIK?
Although both procedures deal with refractive errors, not all patients are good candidates for LASIK. The eyes begin to go through changes after the age of 40, with presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) posing the main problem. Since LASIK is not intended to correct presbyopia, clear lens exchange is often considered the better option in patients who are middle age and older.
Patients with severe hyperopia are another group that can benefit from clear lens extraction. While clear lens extraction can improve extreme farsightedness, LASIK cannot.
How Safe Is Clear Lens Extraction?
The complication rate for clear lens extraction is very low; the ophthalmologist at Laser Eye Center of Miami have a great track record performing both procedures — in terms of both safety and effectiveness. Research shows that approximately 95% of patients who have clear lens extraction see significant improvement in their vision.
Is It True That Clear Lens Extraction Prevents Cataracts?
About half of all adults over the age of 75 have cataracts. This eye condition, characterized by cloudy vision, is avoided by patients who have previously had clear lens extraction, because cataracts can only form on the natural lens of the eye, not an artificial IOL. In fact, clear lens extraction is nearly the same procedure as cataract surgery: they both involve removing the natural lens from the eye and replacing it with a synthetic lens.
Which Are Better: Monofocal or Multifocal Lenses?
Monofocal lenses have just one point of focus, generally correcting for distance vision. Patients who choose monofocal lenses but also have difficulty seeing objects up close may need reading glasses. On the other hand, multifocal lenses offer multiple points of focus, allowing a person to see objects both near and far more clearly. Multifocal lenses offer more utility.
Ultimately, determining which lens is better depends on the patient’s vision. Our ophthalmologists can recommend the right type of lens after measuring your vision prescription and learning more about your preferences.
Learn More about Clear Lens Extraction
Dr. Gabriel Lazcano and Dr. Abraham Awad are happy to review all the benefits of clear lens extraction with patients during a consultation. To make an appointment to learn more about all refractive surgery options, please call (305) 443-4733.