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Almost always, when a cataract is removed, the patient’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens. This artificial lens is permanent and is designed to remain safely inside the eye forever.
Rarely, however, this artificial lens can create a problem. If so, the lens may need to be removed and replaced with a new lens.
Implant Lens Exchange Frequently Asked Questions
Why would anyone need an implant lens exchange?
Rarely, it becomes apparent after cataract surgery that the lens which was implanted is not the proper strength. The lens may be too weak, or too strong, or positioned in a way that does not render the best possible vision.
Usually, “wrong power” lens situations are no one’s fault, and occur because the patient’s eye has healed in an unusual way after the surgery. Other times, the “wrong lens” may be implanted because reliable measurements of the eye could not be performed before the original surgery.
Finally, you might need a lens exchange, even if the “right power” lens has been implanted, if either:
- The lens which has been implanted is causing physical harm to the eye
- You’ve received a “premium” or multifocal lens, and the side effects of these lens (most often glare and halos) are very bothersome.
What are the benefits of an implant lens exchange?
If your existing implant lens is the wrong power, or if it is causing bothersome symptoms (especially glare or halos), then exchanging it may significantly improve your vision. Exchanging the lens may also improve the health of your eye, if your existing lens is positioned in a way that is damaging the surrounding structures.
Is lens exchange surgery a routine operation?
No, lens exchanges tend to be difficult, technically challenging operations. Because artificial lenses are designed to remain in the eye forever, removing them can be quite complex.
Am I a candidate for lens exchange?
You might be, if you are dissatisfied with the quality of vision that you achieved after your previous cataract surgery, and if the problem can be traced back the implant lens.