Do you have cataracts and recently found out you need to have them removed by undergoing cataract surgery? Before you can do this, you’ll have to select an intraocular lens or IOL. An IOL now available at Washington Eye Institute is the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL).
What is the Light Adjustable Lens and How Does it Work?
The Light Adjustable Lens, unlike other IOLs, is an intraocular lens that allows patients to customize their vision after having cataract surgery. Its ability to do this comes from a unique material, allowing it to adjust its shape when exposed to UV light.
First, you’ll have your natural lens removed and the LAL implanted to take its place. Next, you’ll go through recovery from cataract surgery.
But from here is where things change. Because the LAL is made of a particular material, patients must wear UV-protection glasses immediately following cataract surgery.
They can only remove them if they need to shower, wash their face, or apply eye drops. Then, after recovery, you’ll come into the Washington Eye Institute’s office, where you’ll receive light treatments with our Light Delivery Device (LDD) and be able to preview your potential new vision options. Possible vision outcomes will depend on your visual goals, lifestyle, and needs after cataract surgery.
Once you’ve chosen the best prescription, you’ll begin light treatments. Patients typically need between three and five treatments before achieving their optimal vision. Each light treatment is performed about three days apart and lasts approximately 90 seconds. These treatments do not cause pain, and each treatment brings you closer and closer to your ideal visual outcome.
Once you’ve reached your goal, you’ll have a final light treatment to lock in your result. Patients are left with the customized vision they want to their exact specifications.
Who is a Good Candidate for the Light Adjustable Lens?
Although the LAL is a remarkable intraocular lens, it’s not meant for every patient. You may be a good candidate if:
- You have astigmatism of at least 0.75 diopters
- You need cataract surgery
- You do not have any preexisting macular diseases
- You are between the ages of 40 and 80
- You have healthy eyes
- You do not currently take any medications that would increase your sensitivity to UV light
- You have realistic expectations about what the LALs can achieve for your vision
- You agree to comply with your ophthalmologist’s Light Delivery Device schedule
- You’re comfortable wearing UV-protection glasses to attain better vision
If the LALs sound like something that could be right for you, take the first step by scheduling an appointment at Washington Eye Institute in Greenbelt, MD.
Is it Different From Other IOLs?
Yes, the Light Adjustable Lens is different from other IOLs. These reasons include the following:
It Provides Patients with Adjustable Vision After Cataract Surgery
When it comes to intraocular lenses, vision is typically static and unchanging. Once the intraocular lens is implanted, patients know what they are getting. Their vision will depend on the IOL they choose. They may have better vision at only one distance and require reading glasses to see clearly at other ranges, as with a monofocal lens.
Or, with specific premium lenses, patients can look forward to better vision up close, far away, and at intermediate distances. However, the LAL is the only intraocular lens that allows patients to customize their vision after having cataract surgery. By being able to preview their potential visual outcomes before light treatments, patients can ensure they end up with the best possible vision tailored to their exact specifications and needs. Giving patients this option puts the power into their hands and ensures that vision is unique to each patient.
The Light Adjustable Lens is Made of a Unique Material that Reacts to UV Light
A significant reason for the Light Adjustable Lens’ success is its ability to react to UV light. Because its shape can adjust when exposed to ultraviolet light, your ophthalmologist can customize, modify, and adapt your vision to your precise specifications.
Wearing UV-protection glasses during the cataract surgery recovery process and between light treatments ensures the LAL can provide patients with the custom, one-of-a-kind vision they want.
How Does the Light Adjustable Lens Differentiate Itself from Other IOLs?
The Light Adjustable Lens is in a category all of its own compared to other intraocular lenses. Although there have never been so many premium intraocular lenses, the LAL is the only one that gives patients precisely what they want.
It’s especially well-suited for patients with higher amounts of astigmatism and can help reduce dependence on glasses and visual aids after cataract surgery. This makes it appealing for patients who are more active or simply want to enjoy life without needing glasses or contact lenses.
Learn more about the Light Adjustable Lens and if you qualify as a candidate for this incredible intraocular lens by scheduling an appointment at Washington Eye Institute in Greenbelt, MD!
