LASIK and PRK surgeries are designed improve a patients corrected and uncorrected vision by reshaping the cornea. However, some patients are not candidates for this type of surgery due to varying factors. If this is the case, and you are over the age of 45, we are happy to inform you that refractive lensectomy might be a viable option to address your vision concerns outside the use of corrective lenses.

Refractive lensectomy is an alternative procedure for patients over the age of 45 who are experiencing presbyopia (the normal aging process of the eye). A prospective candidate for this procedure would currently wear bifocals or corrective lenses for distance vision and also have a need for reading glasses.

While utilizing a different technique, the refractive lensectomy procedure has the ability to produce results similar LASIK. In fact, this type of procedure is performed essentially in the same manner as cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is necessary when a clouded lens needs to be replaced with a clear implant. Similarly, with refractive lensectomy, we remove an existing, clear lens and implant a new one to address vision deficiencies.

As an added benefit, this type of surgery negates the need for future cataract surgery, as a cataract cannot develop on the implant. The ultimate goal for this type of procedure is to decrease the dependency on glasses and contacts postoperatively.

We do not recommend refractive lensectomy if you:

• Are under the age of 40 and don’t require reading glasses for close up vision
• Have a cataract
• Are a candidate for LASIK or PRK surgery

If you would like more information on this type of procedure or to set up a consultation please call our office at (859) 410-2525.