Phakic Intraocular Lenses (IOL)

Phakic Intraocular Lenses (PIOL) are IOLs that are surgically placed in eyes retaining the natural lens. This allows for vision correction in patients that may not be ideal candidates for LASIK. Currently, there is only FDA approval of Phakic IOLs for myopia, or nearsightedness, although PIOLs exist for both hyperopia and astigmatisms. The FDA approved PIOLs are Visian ICL and Verisyse. Phakic IOLs can be implanted in both the anterior and posterior chambers of the eye and correct myopia in adults ranging anywhere from -3 to -20 diopters. Some risks include detachment of the retina, inflammation, infection, cataracts, halos and decreased night vision. This is a fairly new technology and long-term adverse affects are unknown. Be sure to routinely check up on the patient and perform endothelial cell counts to insure proper healing and health of the cornea.