Most vision correction procedures attempt to change the focusing power of the cornea (LASIK or PRK). Refractive lensectomy, on the other hand, corrects nearsightedness or farsightedness by replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial intra-ocular lens (IOL) implant that has the correct power for the eye.
Refractive lensectomy is a surgical procedure that uses the same successful techniques of modern cataract surgery. These surgical techniques have evolved and improved dramatically over the last twenty years. Cataract surgery is now the most common surgical procedure performed in medicine today.
The main difference between standard cataract surgery and refractive lensectomy is that cataract surgery is primarily performed to remove a patient's cataract that is obstructing and clouding their vision, while refractive lensectomy is performed to reduce a person's dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Refractive lensectomy can be combined with other procedures that treat astigmatism. Patients that elect to undergo refractive lensectomy will avoid the development of cataracts, which is a normal result of aging.
Refractive Lensectomy is for those who:
- want to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts
- may not be a good candidate for laser vision correction (LASIK or PRK)
- are 18+ years of age
For a detailed description of refractive lensectomy, please refer to the cataract surgery area of the procedure section of the Karlik Ophthalmology web site. Additionally, information regarding placement of a Deluxe IOL may be referenced on our web site, if appropriate.