Pseudophakia is a very common, highly successful outpatient procedure performed under local anesthetic.
Complications are unlikely but can include imperfect vision correction and IOL mispositioning or movement.
Post-surgery, most individuals enjoy vision similar to what they experienced before their cataract developed.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
This article will take you through pseudophakia lens options, the procedure, and possible outcomes.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
What Is a Pseudophakic IOL?
Pseudophakic lenses can be made of plastic composites, silicone, or acrylic material.
They are also selected in strengths specifically for your eyes.
Discuss with your practitioner which lens might best suit your needs and lifestyle.
Purpose of IOL Surgery
Cataract surgeryremoves a cloudedlensand replaces it with a clear pseudophakic IOL.
An artificial IOL helps you to see after your own cloudy lens is removed.
When the light enters the eye, a lens focuses it.
When the light is focused to the right strength, you could see sharply.
The pseudophakic lens is clear, just as your natural lens once was.
Specific vision issues include:
Procedure
The surgery itself is an outpatient procedure.
Here’s an idea of what to expect.
Is it okay to have pseudophakia of both eyes?
Also, discuss any medications you may be taking.
Discuss this with the prescribing doctor first.
You’ll also likely be expected to use some eye drops to prepare.
The procedure itself will only last around 30 minutes, and you will be awake the entire time.
You will likely first be given a sedative to relax you.
You’ll also be given a local anesthetic to block any pain.
The doctor may administer some antibiotics or other drops just before the surgery and again right after.
The pseudophakic lens can then be put into the area to replace the original lens.
Another approach sometimes used for removal is extracapsular cataract surgery, where a larger cut is made.
This may be used if it appears the cataract may be difficult to break apart.
Your natural lens can then be removed in one piece and the pseudophakic lens inserted.
After resting for about half an hour, you’re able to then go home.
But be sure to secure a ride ahead of time since the surgery will prevent you from driving.
Outcome
Over the next several months, you will be asked to return for some postoperative visits.
These usually begin just one day after surgery.
This prescription will likely be different from any previous one.
How long do eye lens implants last?
They are made from a variety of materials and come in different strengths and types.
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