If you are not a good candidate for LASIK or LASEK surgery due to the cornea being too thin or refractive error too high we can offer you the option of phakic IOLs.

Phakic IOLs are lenses that are surgically implanted in the eye. These implants, which resemble contact lenses, are placed between the clear front covering of the eye (the cornea) and the iris (this space is called the anterior chamber) or just behind the iris (the posterior chamber).

There are two types of anterior chamber phakic IOLs: Iris Fixated or angle fixated. The iris fixated IOL is attached to the iris while the angle fixated IOL is held in position within the anterior chamber angle. The Posterior chamber phakic IOLs sit in close proximity to the natural lens behind the iris.

Several factors dictate whether phakic IOLs can be used:

* There must be sufficient physical space within the eye to safely place the lens in the relevant chamber. This is measured preoperatively.
* It is also important to carefully assess the level and health of the cells on the back of the cornea using a special type of microscope. These cells (called endothelial cells) are delicate cells required to keep the cornea clear and healthy. If these cells are not sufficiently numerous or they are not appropriately shaped then phakic IOL’s should not be used.
* When you choose to undergo any surgical procedure, it is important for you to understand the potential risks as well as the benefits of the treatment so that you are able to make an informed decision as to whether to proceed.