Lens replacement surgery in Brisbane

What is lens replacement surgery in Brisbane?

People who wish to lessen their reliance on glasses or contact lenses can undergo lens replacement surgery in Brisbane. Unlike laser eye surgery, which is typically recommended for individuals under 50, lens replacement surgery in Brisbane is most commonly performed on patients over 50 who may be experiencing vision changes due to age.

This procedure involves removing the eye’s natural lens, which is located behind the pupil, and replacing it with an artificial lens. The artificial lens helps improve vision, allowing patients to see more clearly without the need for corrective eyewear.

During the surgery, we make a small incision, typically around 2mm, and break the natural lens into small fragments. Advanced surgical instruments gently remove these fragments from the eye. The surgeon then inserts a clear, plastic-like artificial lens into the eye, which maintains its position with the help of the eye’s natural lens bag.

Types of Lens Implants Available

Option 1: Multifocal lens implants.

Multifocal intraocular lenses provide excellent vision at various distances, including near, intermediate, and far. These lenses can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses. However, some patients may notice mild halos around lights, especially when driving at night. In very rare cases, halos can be bothersome enough to require lens replacement.

Option 2: Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens implants.

EDOF lenses offer excellent vision for distance and intermediate tasks, such as using a computer. While they do provide some near vision, they may not fully eliminate the need for reading glasses, especially in low-light conditions. EDOF lenses are less likely to cause halos compared to multifocal lenses, making them a suitable choice for some patients.

Option 3: Blended vision or monovision

One eye focuses on distance, while the other focuses on the nearby. Lens replacement surgery in Brisbane can replicate this approach if you have previously used contact lenses. For those who haven’t tried this method before, multifocal or EDOF lenses may be better alternatives.

What will happen during the procedure?

Before the surgery begins, your anaesthetist will apply a local anaesthetic, usually in the form of eyedrops, to numb the eye. In some cases, an anaesthetic injection around the eye may be required. You will also receive sedation to help you relax, but it is important to stay awake and follow the surgeon’s instructions throughout the procedure to ensure safety.