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THE SURGICAL PROCEDURE
Visian ICL™ “High Definition Visian” Correction Procedure
The implantation procedure for the Visian ICL involves a procedure similar to that of cataract surgery. The main difference is that, unlike cataract surgery, the Visian ICL procedure does not require the removal of the eye's crystalline lens. And unlike the LASIK or PRK refractive procedures, the Visian ICL procedure does not involve the removal of sensitive eye tissue.
The Visian ICL procedure is a short 15 minute outpatient procedure that involves several important steps.
Deciding on Refractive Surgery
You should locate a qualified Visian ICL surgeon that you feel comfortable with and schedule an appointment. After a comprehensive eye examination, the ophthalmologist will discuss various refractive surgery options including the implantation of a lens like the Visian ICL, and/or laser refractive surgery.
Based on your correction needs, eye health, medical history, and desired outcome for refractive surgery, your eye surgeon will determine if you are a good candidate for the Visian ICL.
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One to Two Weeks before the Visian ICL Eye Procedure
About one to two weeks prior to the insertion of the Visian ICL, your ophthalmologist will perform a YAG laser iridotomy. During this procedure, your surgeon will use a YAG laser to make one or two small openings near the edge of your iris, which is the colored part of the eye. These openings serve as outlets that will allow the fluid in your eye to circulate around the lens.
Prior to creating the small openings in the eye with the laser, the surgeon will apply numbing drops to make the procedure more comfortable. The ophthalmologist will then prescribe eye drops for you to use during the weeks leading up to the Visian ICL procedure.
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Day of the Visian ICL Procedure
The entire procedure for the implantation of the Visian ICL will take about 15 to 30 minutes. Most patients say it is relatively painless because of the numbing agents used. Someone will need to drive you home following the procedure.
Topical Anesthesia
On the day of your procedure, prior to surgery, your surgeon will administer topical anesthesia to minimize discomfort, however you may still feel pressure in your eye. Additionally, you may or may not be given a sedative.
Lens Positioning Openings
Once you are comfortable, your surgeon will begin the procedure. First, the surgeon will create one or two small openings at the base of your cornea that will be used to position the lens.
Gel-like Solution
Next, a gel-like substance will be placed inside your eye to protect the eye during lens placement. This gel will be removed at the end of the procedure. |
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Lens Opening
Following placement of the gel, a small opening will be made, through which the lens will be inserted.
Insertion of Corrective Lens
Prior to the Visian ICL procedure, your correctivelens was selected based on your individual prescription. The lens was folded and loaded into a small cartridge which will now be placed through the incision. As the lens is inserted, it will gently unfold in your eye. Once the lens has fully unfolded, the four corners of the lens will be placed behind your iris. This makes the lens invisible to both you and others.
Completion of Procedure
To complete the procedure, the surgeon will administer eye drops to help prevent infection and inflammation. You will continue to use these drops for several days after your procedure.
Because the incision made during surgery is so small, sutures are typically not needed following the Visian ICL surgery. For comfort and protection, the surgeon may cover the eye with a patch or shield and prescribe drops or medication.
You should not be able to drive immediately after the Visian ICL surgery, so it is important that you arrange for transportation home.
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Follow-Up Care after the Visian ICL Procedure
Within 24 hours of undergoing the Visian ICL surgery, you will have a follow-up visit with the ophthalmologist. The surgeon will monitor the eye's internal pressure and will discuss your progress.
Patients need to follow physician instructions, especially regarding the needed use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications during the week following the procedure.
Patients should contact their eye surgeon immediately if they experience severe eye pain or a sudden decrease in vision.
Improved vision may be evident the same day as the Visian ICL procedure, and you can expect a quick visual recovery. For more information on the Visian ICL, contact STAAR® Surgical Company today.
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